Sweet and Savory Cinnamon Pear Crostini

Get fall-ready with these deliciously sweet and savory pear crostini with goat cheese. When it comes to fruit-forward dishes, pears often take a backseat to their flashier counterparts. We’ll pick apples for pies and berries for tarts, but pears? They’re usually left to be enjoyed raw or as part of a fruit salad. Yet, many overlook a hidden magic to pears—one that’s unlocked when baked with a hint of spice like cinnamon. This simple process transforms pears into a delightfully sophisticated treat. The best part is the time you need to prepare this is minimal but looks so pretty on your brunch or dinner table. I cut the pears into thin slices to get crispy caramelized edges.

Cheese is the first and most crucial addition to consider. A dollop of goat or cream cheese provides a tangy counterpoint to the pears’ sweetness, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Fresh thyme leaves or a hint of rosemary brings a fresh, earthy note that cuts through the richness, making the crostini feel light and refreshing despite its decadent ingredients. A slice of toasted baguette provides a satisfying crunch, creating the perfect vehicle to carry the soft pear and creamy cheese.

A delightful and simple appetizer, perfect for autumn gatherings! Here’s how to make these sweet and savory crostini with baked cinnamon pears.

Preparation time: 15-20 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Serves: 6-7

Ingredients

• Baguette (sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces) 1
• Pears, thinly sliced 2-3
• Olive oil/Butter (melted) 2-3 tbsp
• Honey 1 tbsp
• Cinnamon ½ tsp
• Goat cheese (or cream cheese for a milder flavor) 4 tbsp
• Walnuts (chopped) ¼ cup
• Fresh thyme leaves for garnish

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet. Drizzle each slice lightly with melted butter/olive oil. Bake in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Set aside.
2. Line and grease a baking tray and arrange the sliced pears in a single layer. Sprinkle cinnamon and drizzle some honey.
3. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the pears are tender and fragrant. Spread a generous layer of goat cheese on each toasted baguette slice.
4. Top with slices of the baked cinnamon pear. Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top if desired. Finish with a few fresh thyme leaves for a hint of herbal freshness.
5. Arrange the crostini on a serving platter and enjoy while the pears are still warm!