Strawberry Crostini

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Strawberries are the traditional fruit of Valentine’s Day. Maybe it’s because they’re red and heart-shaped, naturally symbolizing love. These sweet, juicy berries are also tied to Venus, the Roman goddess of love. So why not embrace a little more romance in your life?

Grab a pint of strawberries and get ready to dip, float, and slice these lovely fruits into a dish that’s guaranteed to spread some joy.

Today, we’re taking strawberries to the next level by macerating them in Cointreau, pairing their sweetness with the vibrant citrusy notes of the liquor.

The result is a heavenly combination that tops crispy crostini, creamy orange-infused cheese, and the finishing touches of honey, dark chocolate, and mint.

This elegant appetizer takes just minutes to prepare but delivers a luxurious flavor profile that’s perfect for a romantic celebration. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create these irresistible Strawberry Crostini!

How to Prepare the Crostini

Start by slicing a fresh baguette into about 10 thin slices. Brush or spray each slice with olive oil, then bake at 375°F for 10–15 minutes, or until golden and crisp.

These crunchy bites will form the base of your crostini and hold all the delicious toppings to come.

Macerate the Strawberries

To give your strawberries a vibrant burst of flavor, slice one berry per crostini and douse them in a tablespoon of Cointreau. Let the strawberries marinate in the refrigerator for about an hour.

This step infuses the fruit with citrusy notes and enhances their natural sweetness.

Make the Orange-Infused Cream Cheese

While the strawberries soak, it’s time to prepare the creamy layer. Start with 4 ounces of cream cheese at room temperature.

Add a squeeze of fresh orange juice from one slice and a teaspoon of orange zest, then mix it all together until smooth. This bright, tangy spread pairs beautifully with the strawberries.

Assemble the Strawberry Crostini

Once your crostini have cooled, spread a generous layer of the orange-infused cream cheese on each one. Top with at least three slices of the macerated strawberries.

Drizzle each toast with high-quality honey for added sweetness, then shave some dark chocolate over the top for a touch of decadence. Finally, finish each crostini with a few torn mint leaves for a fresh, aromatic pop.

Perfect Cocktail Pairings for Strawberry Crostini

These Strawberry Crostini pair beautifully with a glass of champagne, making them the ultimate Valentine’s Day appetizer. To take your celebration to the next level, try pairing them with one of these romantic cocktails that complement the sweet and citrusy flavors of the crostini:

1. Orange Rose Mimosa

The bright citrus notes of this mimosa mirror the orange-infused cream cheese on your crostini. Made with fresh orange juice, a splash of rose water, and champagne, this cocktail is light, floral, and perfect for a romantic occasion.

2. Romantic French Raspberry 75

This twist on the classic French 75 features a splash of raspberry liqueur for a fruity, vibrant touch. The crisp bubbles and tartness of this cocktail pair wonderfully with the sweetness of the strawberries and honey.

3. Strawberry Ice Cubes in Prosecco

For a simple yet stunning pairing, freeze fresh strawberry slices into ice cubes and drop them into a glass of chilled prosecco. The subtle strawberry essence enhances the crostini flavors and adds a fun, romantic presentation.

Each of these cocktails offers a unique flavor profile to complement your crostini, making your Valentine’s Day celebration even more special. Cheers! 🥂

Enjoy!

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to indulge in something special, and these Strawberry Crostini deliver on every level. From the sweet, citrusy strawberries to the creamy orange-infused cheese, each bite is a celebration of flavors.

Paired with a glass of champagne or a romantic cocktail, this appetizer sets the stage for a truly memorable evening.

Treat yourself and your loved ones to this decadent and easy-to-make dish—it’s a little bit of luxury that everyone deserves.

Enjoy and savor the love!