How to Make Crostini 7 Different Ways

When it comes to entertaining, finding an appetizer that’s both simple and crowd-pleasing is key—and that’s exactly where crostini shine. This guide covers how to make crostini with ease, plus seven delicious crostini recipes that range from sweet to savory. With flavors to suit every palate, they’re the perfect bite-sized pairing for a glass (or two) of La Crema. 

What Is Crostini?

Crostini, which means “little toasts” in Italian, are thin slices of bread that are brushed with olive oil, toasted until golden, and topped with a wide variety of ingredients—anything from creamy cheeses and fresh fruits to savory spreads and cured meats. Often confused with bruschetta, crostini are typically made with a smaller, finer-textured bread like a French baguette, while bruschetta uses rustic Italian loaves with a heartier crumb and is usually rubbed with garlic. 

What makes crostini such a go-to for entertaining? They’re endlessly customizable, visually impressive, and delightfully easy to eat—no fork, no fuss. With just a few simple ingredients, they can lean elegant, playful, seasonal, or indulgent. Whether served as an hors d’oeuvre or the centerpiece of a wine and cheese night, crostini bring big flavor in just one or two bites. 

How to Make Perfect Crostini Toasts 

The key to great crostini starts with the bread—and a little attention to texture. A slender French baguette is the ideal choice here. Its tight crumb and small diameter make for crisp, clean slices that are just the right size for two bites. Slice on the diagonal for a little extra surface area and visual appeal. 

From there, it’s all about the olive oil. A light brushing on both sides of each slice helps the bread toast evenly and turn a gorgeous golden brown. No need to soak it—just enough to coat and crisp. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 5 to 8 minutes, flipping once halfway through. Finish with a quick broil (1–2 minutes per side) to add that delicate crunch that holds up to creamy toppings without going stale or too hard. 

Let the toasts cool completely before assembling—this keeps soft cheeses from melting and maintains that perfect bite. Simple, yes—but the foundation makes all the difference. Let’s dive into 7 of our favorite crostini recipes. 

Crostini and Wine Pairings: What to Sip with Each Bite 

The beauty of crostini lies not just in their flavor, but in how well they pair with a glass of wine. Each topping combo has its own personality, and when matched thoughtfully, the wine can elevate every bite. Here’s how these seven crostini line up with a few La Crema favorites: 

• Goat cheese, peach slices, jalapeño – Sweet, creamy, and just a little spicy, this combo sings with La Crema Monterey Chardonnay. The wine’s ripe stone fruit notes and gentle acidity round out the heat and mirror the peach beautifully. 

• Goat cheese, fig, balsamic drizzle – Rich and earthy with a touch of tang, this one’s a natural match for La Crema Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir. The wine’s subtle spice and red fruit flavors bring out the fig’s depth without overpowering it. 

• Ricotta, blackberry, honey, lime – This sweet-meets-tart crostini pairs like a dream with La Crema Monterey Pinot Noir Rosé. Its bright berry character and crisp finish echo the fruit while cutting through the richness of the ricotta. 

• Ricotta, prosciutto, chopped pistachios, honey – Savory and slightly sweet, this one loves the balanced profile of La Crema Willamette Valley Pinot Noir. The wine’s earthiness pairs well with the salty prosciutto and nutty pistachios. 

• Herb cream cheese, smoked salmon, capers – Smoky and briny calls for something clean and refreshing like La Crema Sonoma Coast Chardonnay. Its citrus and mineral notes brighten the salmon without clashing with the herbs. 

• Herb cream cheese, radishes, chives – Light, fresh, and a little peppery, this is a perfect partner for La Crema Pinot Noir Rosé. The wine enhances the garden-fresh feel of the radishes and chives with its bright acidity and floral lift. 

• Herb cream cheese, asparagus, chopped radish – Green, crisp, and spring-inspired, this pairing shines with La Crema Sauvignon Blanc. Its grassy notes and citrus-driven palate complement the veggies beautifully. 

Whether serving one or all seven, pairing crostini with wine makes each bite feel intentional—effortless, but elevated. 

Can I Make Crostini Ahead of Time? 

Yes—crostini are a great make-ahead appetizer with a few simple tricks. Toast the bread up to a day in advance and store it in an airtight container once completely cool. For toppings, prep ingredients ahead but assemble just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh. If needed, a quick pop in the oven can re-crisp the toasts without drying them out. 

Bring It All Together with a Glass of La Crema 

With their endless topping combinations and crowd-pleasing flavors, crostini make hosting feel effortless. Whether it’s a casual evening with friends or something a little more celebratory, these little toasts have a way of making the table feel complete. And when paired with a chilled glass of La Crema—whether it’s a vibrant Chardonnay, a silky Pinot Noir, or a crisp Rosé—they go from simple bites to something truly special. 

Cheers to easy entertaining, bold flavors, and always having good wine on hand. 

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