Sweet and Spicy Whipped Feta Crostini with Hot Honey Recipe
Introduction
This Sweet and Spicy Whipped Feta Crostini with Hot Honey Magic is a delightful appetizer that balances creamy, tangy feta with a touch of heat and sweetness. Perfect for entertaining or a simple snack, these crostini melt in your mouth with a surprising kick.
Ingredients
- 8 oz feta cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 baguette, sliced
- Hot honey for drizzling
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2: Blend the feta cheese and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Step 3: Add honey and red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture, then blend again until well combined.
- Step 4: Brush both sides of the baguette slices with olive oil.
- Step 5: Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
- Step 6: Spread the whipped feta mixture generously over the toasted baguette slices.
- Step 7: Drizzle hot honey over each crostini just before serving to add sweetness and a spicy finish.
Tips & Variations
- For less heat, reduce the red pepper flakes or omit them altogether and add a pinch of smoked paprika for smoky flavor.
- Use flavored cream cheese like garlic or herb for an extra layer of taste.
- Swap the baguette with crispy pita chips or crackers for a different crunch.
Storage
Store any leftover whipped feta mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep baked baguette slices separate at room temperature to maintain crispness and assemble crostini just before serving. Reheat baguette slices in a toaster oven briefly if needed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make the whipped feta mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the whipped feta mixture up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate it. Bring it to room temperature before spreading on crostini for best flavor and texture.
What is hot honey and where can I find it?
Hot honey is honey infused with chili peppers, providing a balance of sweetness and heat. You can find it at many grocery stores, specialty shops, or easily make your own by gently warming honey with chili flakes.
PrintSweet and Spicy Whipped Feta Crostini with Hot Honey Recipe
This Sweet and Spicy Whipped Feta Crostini with Hot Honey Magic is a delightful appetizer that combines creamy whipped feta cheese with a hint of sweetness and heat. Perfectly toasted baguette slices are topped with a smooth blend of feta and cream cheese, accented by red pepper flakes and a drizzle of hot honey for a burst of flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 12 crostini 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Cheese Mixture
- 8 oz feta cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
For Toasting
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 baguette, sliced
Finishing
- Hot honey for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for toasting the baguette slices.
- Blend Cheeses: In a food processor or blender, combine the feta cheese and cream cheese. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Flavor: Add the honey and red pepper flakes to the blended cheese mixture, then blend again until everything is well incorporated, balancing sweet and spicy flavors.
- Prepare Baguette: Brush the sliced baguette pieces with olive oil evenly on both sides to ensure a golden and crisp texture when baked.
- Bake Baguette Slices: Place the oiled baguette slices on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes or until they turn golden and crispy.
- Assemble Crostini: Spread the whipped feta mixture generously on each toasted baguette slice, covering the surface for a creamy base.
- Drizzle Hot Honey: Finish by drizzling hot honey over the crostini to add a spicy-sweet glaze that ties all the flavors together.
Notes
- For a milder heat, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them entirely.
- Use fresh or good quality honey to maximize the sweetness and quality of the drizzle.
- These crostini are best served immediately to enjoy the contrast between warm, crunchy bread and creamy cheese topping.
- You can add fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for a fresh herbal note if desired.
- Store leftover whipped feta in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 3 days but toast baguette fresh before serving.
Keywords: whipped feta crostini, spicy feta spread, hot honey crostini, Mediterranean appetizers, easy party snacks
