Autumn is here, and with it comes the cozy comfort of warm spices, crisp apples, and the sweet embrace of butternut squash. What better way to celebrate the season than with a delicious and easy appetizer that's perfect for gatherings or a quiet night in? These Butternut Squash & Apple Crostini are the epitome of autumnal flavors, combining the earthy sweetness of squash with the tartness of apples, all atop a crispy baguette slice. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it one of the best recipes for your fall entertaining.
Ingredients:
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For the Butternut Squash & Apple Filling:
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1 medium apple (Honeycrisp or Fuji recommended), peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
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For the Crostini:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional toppings: crumbled goat cheese, toasted pecans, fresh sage
Instructions:
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Prepare the Butternut Squash and Apple: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash and apple cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized. Stir in maple syrup during the last 5 minutes of roasting, if using.
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Make the Crostini: While the squash and apple are roasting, brush the baguette slices with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Arrange them on a separate baking sheet and bake alongside the squash for the last 10-12 minutes of the squash's cooking time, or until golden brown and crispy.
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Assemble the Crostini: Once the squash and apple mixture has cooled slightly, spoon it onto the toasted baguette slices. Top with crumbled goat cheese, toasted pecans, and fresh sage, if desired.
Tips for the Best Crostini:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Ensure the squash and apple pieces are in a single layer for even roasting and caramelization. This is a key tip for achieving the best results.
- Toast the baguette slices until golden brown and crispy: This adds a delightful crunch to the appetizer.
- Adjust spices to your liking: Feel free to experiment with different spice combinations to suit your taste. A pinch of ginger or allspice would also be delicious additions.
- Prepare ahead: You can roast the squash and apple a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Assemble the crostini just before serving for optimal crispness.
Variations:
- Spicy Crostini: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butternut squash and apple mixture for a touch of heat.
- Herby Crostini: Incorporate fresh rosemary or thyme along with the sage.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as brie, ricotta, or cream cheese.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your crostini and the added toppings. However, a single crostini will likely contain around 150-200 calories, with a moderate amount of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and fiber.
These Butternut Squash & Apple Crostini are a fantastic example of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. They're also healthy meals, perfect for a light appetizer or a satisfying snack. This homemade cooking recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delicious and elegant dish that’s sure to impress your guests. They're the best autumn appetizer recipe you'll find, guaranteed to make your autumn gatherings even more special.