Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, Sweet & Spicy Whipped Feta Crostini with Hot Honey strikes a perfect balance between creamy, savory, and just the right amount of kick. The rich whipped feta paired with a drizzle of sweet and spicy hot honey creates an irresistible topping on crispy baguette slices. This recipe is not just an appetizer; it’s a flavorful journey that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Servings: 12 crostini
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: Approximately 150
- Protein: 4g per serving
- Carbohydrates: 17g per serving
- Fat: 7g per serving
- Fiber: 1g per serving
- Sugar: 3g per serving
- Sodium: 350mg per serving
Why Make This Sweet & Spicy Whipped Feta Crostini with Hot Honey
This delightful crostini is the perfect appetizer for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering, enjoying a casual dinner with friends, or just craving a flavorful bite, these crostinis deliver. The creamy texture of whipped feta combined with the crunch of freshly baked baguette provides an enticing contrast. Moreover, the touch of hot honey not only elevates the dish but also ensures each bite is both sweet and spicy, keeping your palate engaged. Plus, they are simple to prepare, making them a go-to recipe for any busy home cook.
How to Make Sweet & Spicy Whipped Feta Crostini with Hot Honey
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mixing
Arrange the baguette slices on the prepared baking sheet and brush both sides lightly with olive oil. This helps achieve that perfect golden crust.
Step 3: Cooking
Bake the baguette slices in the preheated oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are lightly golden and crisp. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, as oven times can vary.
Step 4: Finishing
While the crostinis are baking, prepare the whipped feta by combining the crumbled feta cheese, softened cream cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer or food processor, blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste. Once the crostinis have cooled slightly, generously spread the whipped feta mixture onto each slice, drizzle with hot honey, and garnish with fresh parsley.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1/4 cup hot honey (or more to taste)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mixing
Arrange the baguette slices on the prepared baking sheet. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
Step 3: Cooking
Bake the baguette slices in the preheated oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are lightly golden and crisp. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 4: Finishing
While the crostinis are baking, prepare the whipped feta. In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, softened cream cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Using an electric mixer or a food processor, blend the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as necessary. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.
When the crostinis are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Spread a generous layer of the whipped feta mixture onto each crostini. Drizzle hot honey over the top of each crostini, as much or as little as you prefer, based on your spice tolerance. Finish by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley over the crostinis for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful sweet and spicy appetizer!
How to Serve Sweet & Spicy Whipped Feta Crostini with Hot Honey
These crostini are best enjoyed fresh, ideally while the bread is still warm and crispy. Pair them with a chilled glass of white wine or a light beer for a lovely appetizer. They also make a fantastic starter for any holiday menu or special occasion, sure to please both guests and family alike.
How to Store Sweet & Spicy Whipped Feta Crostini with Hot Honey
To store, cover any leftover whipped feta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The baguette slices are best eaten fresh, but any leftover crostini can be kept at room temperature for a day. To refresh the baked slices, pop them back in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Expert Tips for Perfect Sweet & Spicy Whipped Feta Crostini with Hot Honey
- For extra creaminess, let your cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing.
- Experiment with flavored oils for an extra layer of taste.
- Use a mix of fresh herbs like basil or chives for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Play with the hot honey; if you prefer a milder version, blend in some regular honey to soften the heat.
Delicious Variations
- Swap out the feta for goat cheese for a tangier flavor.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the whipped mixture for an extra flavor twist.
- Use different types of bread, like sourdough or whole grain, to add a unique flavor and texture contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I make the whipped feta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the whipped feta mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before spreading it on the crostini. -
What can I substitute for hot honey?
If you don’t have hot honey, you can mix regular honey with a pinch of cayenne or your preferred hot sauce to create a similar effect. -
How can I ensure my crostini are crispy?
Make sure to toast the baguette slices until they are golden brown, and avoid overly thick slices that won’t crisp up well. -
Is it possible to use a different cheese?
Absolutely! Cream cheese or ricotta can be used as a base, which will still give you a delicious, creamy spread. -
Can I freeze these crostini?
While the whipped feta can be frozen, the baguette slices are best enjoyed fresh. You can freeze the whipped feta for up to a month and thaw it in the refrigerator when ready to use.
Conclusion
Sweet & Spicy Whipped Feta Crostini with Hot Honey is a delightful appetizer that combines effortless preparation with an explosion of flavors. With its crunchy bread, creamy feta, and a hint of heat, this dish is sure to impress anyone who tries it. Give this recipe a try and discover how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly spectacular. Happy cooking!
Print
Sweet & Spicy Whipped Feta Crostini with Hot Honey
- Total Time: 17
- Yield: 12 crostini 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful balance of creamy whipped feta topped with sweet and spicy hot honey atop crispy baguette slices, perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1/4 cup hot honey (or more to taste)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange the baguette slices on the prepared baking sheet and brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
- Bake the baguette slices for about 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden and crisp.
- Prepare the whipped feta by combining feta, cream cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, garlic, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Once the crostinis have cooled slightly, spread the whipped feta mixture onto each slice, drizzle with hot honey, and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
Serve fresh for the best texture. Pair with white wine or light beer. Store whipped feta in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 7
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 crostini
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
