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Herbed Goat Cheese Bruschetta with Butternut Squash and Cranberry Jam Recipe

Herbed Goat Cheese Bruschetta With Butternut Squash And Cranberry Jam

This vibrant appetizer blends creamy herbed goat cheese, sweet roasted butternut squash, and tangy cranberry jam atop toasted baguette slices. Perfect for dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or as an elegant starter.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 persons
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large baguette About 16 slices, 400g
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil Divided for roasting squash and brushing baguette.
  • 200 grams herbed goat cheese About 7 ounces, softened.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley Finely chopped.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives Finely chopped.
  • 300 grams butternut squash Peeled and diced, about 2 cups.
  • ½ teaspoon salt Divided.
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup whole cranberry sauce 250g.
  • ½ teaspoon orange zest
  • 1 tablespoon honey

Equipment

  • 1 baking sheet
  • 1 parchment paper
  • 1 small saucepan
  • 1 mixing bowl
  • 1 spoon or spatula
  • 1 rubber spatula
  • 1 tongs

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Place the diced butternut squash on the baking sheet, toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, ¼ teaspoon salt, and pepper, and roast for 20 to 25 minutes until soft and caramelized.
  3. While the squash roasts, cut the baguette into 1 cm thick slices and arrange on another baking sheet. Brush each side lightly with the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil.
  4. Toast the baguette slices in the oven for about 8 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crisp. Remove and let cool slightly.
  5. In a bowl, mix the softened goat cheese with the parsley and chives, then set aside.
  6. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberry sauce, orange zest, and honey, stirring until well combined and slightly thickened. Remove from heat and cool.
  7. To assemble, spread a generous layer of herbed goat cheese on each toasted bread slice, top with a few cubes of roasted butternut squash, and add a spoonful of cranberry jam.
  8. Arrange on a platter and garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

You can prepare the butternut squash, jam, and goat cheese mixture up to a day in advance. Assemble bruschetta just before serving for the best texture.
For extra crunch, sprinkle with toasted pecans or walnuts.
Substitute cow’s milk cheese for a milder flavor or use dairy-free soft cheese for a vegan version.