Sweet and Spicy Whipped Feta Crostini with Hot Honey is a show-stopping appetizer that balances creamy, tangy whipped feta with the warmth of hot honey and the crunch of toasted bread. This recipe is perfect for parties, gatherings, or whenever you want a quick and elegant snack. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and visual appeal.
Ingredients
- For the Whipped Feta:
- 8 oz (225 g) block of feta cheese, crumbled
- 3 oz (85 g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional for extra flavor)
- For the Crostini:
- 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch thick rounds
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- For the Hot Honey:
- ¼ cup honey
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for desired heat level)
- Toppings:
- Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish (optional)
- Crushed pistachios or walnuts (optional, for added texture)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Whipped Feta
- In a food processor, combine the crumbled feta and cream cheese. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while blending until the mixture is velvety. For extra flavor, add minced garlic. Set aside.
Step 2: Toast the Crostini
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
- Toast in the oven for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
Step 3: Make the Hot Honey
- In a small saucepan, gently heat the honey over low heat. Stir in the red pepper flakes and allow to steep for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 4: Assemble the Crostini
- Spread a generous dollop of whipped feta on each toasted baguette slice.
- Drizzle the hot honey over the whipped feta.
- Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary and crushed pistachios if desired.
Step 5: Serve
Arrange the crostini on a serving platter and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Sweet and Spicy Whipped Feta Crostini is best served immediately to preserve the crispness of the toasted bread. Pair it with sparkling wine or a light cocktail for a perfect accompaniment.
- Storage: Store leftover whipped feta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat the hot honey gently before using. Toasted crostini can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days but may lose some crispness.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the whipped feta and hot honey in advance. Assemble the crostini just before serving to keep the bread crunchy.
2. Is there a substitute for feta cheese?
Goat cheese is a great alternative for a similar tangy and creamy flavor.
3. How can I adjust the heat level of the hot honey?
Simply increase or decrease the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
4. Can I use store-bought crostini?
Absolutely! Pre-made crostini will save time and work well with this recipe.
Sweet and Spicy Whipped Feta Crostini with Hot Honey
These crostini feature a creamy whipped feta spread topped with chopped pecans and a drizzle of homemade hot honey, offering a harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 crostini 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Hot Honey:
- ½ cup honey
- ½ tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ tablespoon hot sauce (such as Sriracha)
- 1½ teaspoons minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
For the Whipped Feta:
- 4 ounces feta cheese crumbles
- ¼ cup cream cheese
- ¼ cup cottage cheese
For Assembly:
- 24 toasted baguette slices, bagel chips, or crackers
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- 3–4 sprigs fresh rosemary, torn
Instructions
- Prepare the Hot Honey:
- In a small saucepan, combine honey, apple cider vinegar, hot sauce, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes.
- Heat over low heat until it just begins to simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- Make the Whipped Feta:
- In a food processor, combine feta cheese crumbles, cream cheese, and cottage cheese.
- Pulse until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Transfer to a small bowl.
- Assemble the Crostini:
- Spread a generous amount of whipped feta onto each toasted baguette slice.
- Arrange on a serving platter.
- Sprinkle with chopped pecans and torn rosemary.
- Drizzle with the prepared hot honey.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately and enjoy the blend of flavors.