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Golden Chanterelle-Topped Crostini are one of those little appetizers that feel effortlessly elegant. The combination of crisp, toasted baguette slices, earthy chanterelle mushrooms, and a touch of creamy cheese makes every bite satisfying and layered with flavor. It is the kind of dish that looks impressive on a plate but is actually simple enough to pull together on a weeknight or for a casual gathering with friends.
Chanterelle mushrooms have a delicate, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the richness of butter and shallots, and a splash of white wine helps bring out their natural sweetness. Topped on a lightly toasted crostini with a smear of fresh fromage blanc or ricotta, they create a perfect balance of textures and flavors. These crostini are ideal served with a glass of Kendall-Jackson Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, and they make an elegant addition to any appetizer spread or wine tasting evening. Once you start making them, you will find yourself thinking of new ways to layer flavors and experiment with toppings, because they really are a versatile little canvas for creativity in the kitchen.
Why Chanterelles Make Crostini Extra Special
Chanterelle mushrooms are a little gem in the culinary world. They bring a subtle, earthy nuttiness that feels rich without ever being heavy, and their golden color adds a touch of elegance to any plate. When sautéed with shallots, butter, and a splash of white wine, their flavor deepens and becomes beautifully layered. The mushrooms’ tender texture pairs effortlessly with the creamy, slightly tangy fromage blanc or ricotta, creating a bite that is both indulgent and approachable. Even on a simple baguette, these crostini feel special, turning a quick appetizer into a dish that could easily steal the show at any gathering.
Key Ingredients for Golden Chanterelle Crostini
Before you get started, it’s helpful to know which ingredients really make these crostini shine. Here’s a quick rundown of the essentials and what to look for when picking them up:
- Baguette slices – a fresh, crusty loaf cut on the diagonal for the perfect bite
- Chanterelle mushrooms – tender and golden, cleaned and sliced evenly
- Olive oil – for brushing the bread and sautéing the mushrooms
- Dry white wine – adds brightness and depth to the mushrooms
- Unsalted butter – enriches the mushroom mixture without overpowering it
- Shallots – finely minced for a delicate, sweet aroma
- Fresh thyme – adds an earthy herbal note
- Kosher salt and black pepper – for seasoning to taste
- Fromage blanc or ricotta – creamy base that balances the earthiness of the mushrooms
Golden Chanterel-Topped Crositini
Recipe Type:
Appetizer
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
15 minutes
Total Time:
35 minutes
Servings:
6
Ingredients
- Eighteen 1⁄4” thick diagonal baguette slices
- 3 Tbsp. olive oil
- 4 oz. chanterelle mushrooms, cleaned and sliced into 1⁄4” thick strips
- 1⁄4 C. dry white wine
- 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter
- 2 Tbsp. minced shallots
- 1⁄2 tsp. minced fresh thyme
- kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1⁄3 C. fromage blanc or fresh ricotta cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Brush the baguette slices with 2 Tbsp. of the olive oil. Arrange on a baking sheet and bake until crisp, 7-10 minutes.
- In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 Tbsp. olive oil over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and sauté until browned, about 3 minutes.
- Add the wine and sauté until almost dry, about 3 minutes. Stir in the butter, shallots, and thyme and sauté until butter is browned and shallots are translucent, about 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spread each crostini with 1 tsp. of the fromage blanc or ricotta and top with an equal amount of the mushroom mixture. Arrange 3 crostini on each of 6 small plates and serve.
Ingredient Swaps to Make It Your Own
If you want to switch things up or just use what you have on hand, this crostini recipe is very forgiving. Here are some tasty alternatives to keep things fresh without losing the essence of the dish:
- Cheese: Swap the fromage blanc or ricotta for goat cheese, mascarpone, or cream cheese for a slightly tangier or richer flavor.
- Mushrooms: If chanterelles aren’t available, try cremini, shiitake, or oyster mushrooms—they sauté beautifully and still give that earthy depth.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme is classic, but rosemary, sage, or tarragon can add a unique aroma and flavor twist.
- Bread: Any sturdy baguette or rustic bread works, and you can even toast slices on the grill for a smoky touch.
- Wine for Cooking: Instead of dry white wine, a light vermouth or even a splash of dry Sherry can add a subtle complexity.
Wine Pairing Tips for Chanterelle Crostini
These golden mushroom crostini have delicate earthy flavors with a touch of creaminess from the fromage blanc, so you want a wine that complements without overpowering. A lightly oaked Chardonnay or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc from Kendall-Jackson works beautifully here. The Chardonnay’s subtle butteriness mirrors the richness of the mushrooms and cheese, while a Sauvignon Blanc adds a refreshing brightness that balances the earthiness.
You can also experiment with Pinot Noir or even a dry Rosé for a slightly bolder, fruit-forward contrast. The key is to pick a wine that highlights the natural flavors of the chanterelles and brings a little extra lift to the creamy topping. It’s a pairing that feels thoughtful, seasonal, and effortlessly elegant—perfect for a small gathering or an appetizer course before a larger meal.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prep the mushroom topping a few hours in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Toast the bread just before serving to keep it crisp.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely. Goat cheese, mascarpone, or even a mild cream cheese will give a slightly different flavor but remain creamy and complementary to the mushrooms.
Are chanterelles the only mushrooms that work?
Not at all. Cremini, shiitake, or oyster mushrooms are excellent substitutes and sauté just as well.
Can these be served warm or at room temperature?
Both work, though serving them warm straight from the skillet gives the best aroma and slightly melty cheese texture.
Is there a vegetarian option?
This recipe is already vegetarian, but make sure your butter is plant-based if you want to make it vegan-friendly.
How long do leftovers keep?
Store any leftover mushroom topping in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Toast fresh bread when ready to serve.
