Apple Sage Bruschetta
This elegant Apple Sage Bruschetta combines the crisp sweetness of fresh apples with aromatic sage and tangy goat cheese to create a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will impress even the most discerning guests. Perfect for fall entertaining, this versatile appetizer delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 25 minutes mins
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Italian-inspired
Servings 24 pieces
Calories 210 kcal
Baking Sheet
Oven
Mixing Bowls
For the bruschetta base
- 1 French baguette sliced into ½-inch rounds (about 24 pieces)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic peeled and halved
For the apple topping
- 2 medium Honeycrisp apples about 2 cups when diced
- 8 oz goat cheese softened to room temperature
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage leaves finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons honey plus extra for drizzling
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts lightly toasted (optional)
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a large baking sheet in a single layer. Brush each slice with olive oil on both sides.
Toast in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes until lightly golden but still slightly soft in the center. For extra flavor depth, immediately rub each toasted slice with the cut side of the garlic clove while still warm.
Core and dice the apples into small, ¼-inch cubes, keeping the skins on. Immediately toss the diced apples with lemon juice to prevent browning.
In a medium bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, 1 tablespoon of the chopped sage, honey, salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Spread a generous layer (about 1-2 teaspoons) of the goat cheese mixture onto each toasted baguette slice. Top each with a spoonful of the diced apples, distributing them evenly among all slices.
Sprinkle the remaining chopped sage and toasted walnuts (if using) over the assembled bruschetta. Finish with a light drizzle of honey and a final crack of black pepper.
Make-ahead tips: Toast the bread up to 1 day ahead and store in an airtight container. The goat cheese mixture can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated. For best results, dice apples just before serving and assemble at the last minute.
Substitutions:
- Granny Smith or Pink Lady apples for a different flavor profile
- Cream cheese or ricotta can replace goat cheese for a milder taste
- Thyme or rosemary can substitute for sage if preferred
- Maple syrup works beautifully instead of honey
- Pistachios or pecans can replace walnuts
Calories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 7gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 13mgSodium: 280mgFiber: 2gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 6IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 8mgIron: 6mg
Keyword Bruschetta, Apple Bruschetta, Fall Appetizer, Goat Cheese Appetizer, Sage Bruschetta