Introduction
Maple Walnut Burrata Crostini with Roasted Sweet Potatoes is an elegant and savory appetizer that is perfect for any gathering or special occasion. Combining the creamy texture of burrata cheese with the sweet and nutty flavors of maple-glazed walnuts and roasted sweet potatoes, this dish is a delightful balance of textures and tastes. The crisp crostini serves as a wonderful base, adding a satisfying crunch to every bite. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for an elevated snack, these crostini will impress your guests with their delicious and complex flavor profile.
Ingredients:
- For the Crostini:
- 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch thick pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- For the Maple Walnut Topping:
- 1 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- A pinch of sea salt
- For the Assembly:
- 8 oz burrata cheese, drained and torn into pieces
- Fresh thyme leaves (for garnish)
- Honey drizzle (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Crostini
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides with olive oil.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until the bread is golden and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.
Step 2: Roast the Sweet Potatoes
- Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, pepper, and ground cinnamon.
- Spread the sweet potatoes in an even layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the sweet potatoes are tender and caramelized.
- Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Maple Walnut Topping
- In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the chopped walnuts and toast them for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Pour in the maple syrup and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the walnuts are caramelized.
- Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt and transfer to a plate to cool.
Step 4: Assemble the Crostini
- Take the cooled crostini and spread a piece of burrata cheese on each slice.
- Top with a spoonful of roasted sweet potatoes.
- Add a sprinkle of the maple-glazed walnuts over the sweet potatoes.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish the crostini with fresh thyme leaves.
- Optionally, drizzle a bit of honey on top for added sweetness.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Notes:
- For a more robust flavor, you can add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the walnuts while they are caramelizing for a hint of spice.
- Burrata is best served fresh; make sure it is well-drained before placing it on the crostini to prevent sogginess.
- This recipe is easily adaptable—try adding a splash of balsamic glaze for extra depth.
Serving Suggestions:
Maple Walnut Burrata Crostini with Roasted Sweet Potatoes pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light sparkling wine like Prosecco. These crostini make a great appetizer for holiday gatherings, brunches, or cocktail parties. Serve them on a rustic wooden board for an appealing presentation.
Tips:
- Make Ahead: You can roast the sweet potatoes and prepare the maple walnuts ahead of time. Simply assemble the crostini just before serving to ensure they stay crispy.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap the sweet potatoes for roasted butternut squash or pumpkin for a seasonal variation.
- Add Freshness: A sprinkle of microgreens or arugula can add a fresh, peppery bite to the dish.
- Texture Tip: For extra crunch, lightly toast the walnuts before caramelizing them in maple syrup.
Prep Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Protein: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 7 g
Conclusion
Maple Walnut Burrata Crostini with Roasted Sweet Potatoes is a show-stopping appetizer that is both easy to make and incredibly flavorful. The combination of creamy burrata, sweet roasted potatoes, and crunchy maple walnuts creates a perfect balance that will have your guests coming back for more. Whether you’re looking to impress at a dinner party or simply want to treat yourself, this crostini is a must-try.
PrintMaple Walnut Burrata Crostini with Roasted Sweet Potatoes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
- For the Crostini:
- 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch thick pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- For the Maple Walnut Topping:
- 1 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- A pinch of sea salt
- For the Assembly:
- 8 oz burrata cheese, drained and torn into pieces
- Fresh thyme leaves (for garnish)
- Honey drizzle (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crostini
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides with olive oil.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until the bread is golden and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.
Step 2: Roast the Sweet Potatoes
- Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, pepper, and ground cinnamon.
- Spread the sweet potatoes in an even layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the sweet potatoes are tender and caramelized.
- Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Maple Walnut Topping
- In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the chopped walnuts and toast them for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Pour in the maple syrup and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the walnuts are caramelized.
- Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt and transfer to a plate to cool.
Step 4: Assemble the Crostini
- Take the cooled crostini and spread a piece of burrata cheese on each slice.
- Top with a spoonful of roasted sweet potatoes.
- Add a sprinkle of the maple-glazed walnuts over the sweet potatoes.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish the crostini with fresh thyme leaves.
- Optionally, drizzle a bit of honey on top for added sweetness.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 210
- Sodium: 150mg
- Protein: 5g