The Story & Intro
Hi, I’m Marilyn from the beautiful island of Crete a place where golden olive oil, roasted vegetables, and the warmth of home cooking fill every kitchen. Growing up, my grandmother often roasted vegetables from her garden, and the smell of caramelized squash drifting through the house always meant one thing comfort.
Years later, when I moved abroad, I started experimenting with simple recipes that could bring that same cozy feeling back. One autumn evening, while preparing for a dinner with friends, I created something magical Roasted Butternut Squash Crostini topped with whipped goat cheese and a drizzle of honey.
The contrast between the creamy cheese, sweet roasted squash, and crisp bread was unforgettable. My friends devoured them so fast, I barely got to taste one! That’s when I knew this dish was a keeper.
These Roasted Butternut Squash Crostini are ideal for any fall occasion from elegant dinner parties to Thanksgiving appetizers. They’re easy to prepare yet look so sophisticated that your guests will think you spent hours in the kitchen. The sweetness of honey, the creaminess of goat cheese, and the earthy flavor of roasted butternut squash come together in perfect harmony.
Whether you’re entertaining or just want to treat yourself to something special, this recipe brings the warmth of Crete and the spirit of autumn right to your table.
Ingredients
For the Crostini:
- 1 small baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, halved
For the Roasted Butternut Squash:
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon or smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Whipped Goat Cheese:
- 6 ounces goat cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese or Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
For Topping:
- 2 tablespoons honey (for drizzling)
- Fresh thyme or chopped walnuts for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Roast the Butternut Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of cinnamon or smoked paprika. Spread the pieces evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway, until golden and caramelized on the edges.
Step 2 – Prepare the Crostini Base
While the squash roasts, brush both sides of your baguette slices with olive oil. Place them on a baking tray and toast in the oven for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until lightly golden and crisp. Rub each slice with the cut side of a garlic clove for subtle flavor.
Step 3 – Whip the Goat Cheese
In a small bowl, combine goat cheese, cream cheese (or Greek yogurt), honey, and lemon juice. Whip using a hand mixer or fork until smooth, creamy, and spreadable. This creates a light and tangy base that balances the sweetness of the squash and honey.
Step 4 – Assemble the Crostini
Spread a generous layer of whipped goat cheese over each toasted baguette slice. Top with a few cubes of roasted butternut squash. Drizzle lightly with honey and garnish with fresh thyme or chopped walnuts.
Serving Suggestions
Arrange the crostini on a wooden board or serving platter. Drizzle with extra honey just before serving for that irresistible glossy finish. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt or crushed walnuts adds a lovely final touch.
These Roasted Butternut Squash Crostini are best served slightly warm or at room temperature. They pair beautifully with a crisp white wine or sparkling apple cider.
You can also experiment by adding:
- A hint of balsamic glaze for tanginess
- Crispy sage leaves for a more earthy note
- Crumbled feta or ricotta as an alternative cheese option
Conclusion
Cooking has always been my favorite way to express love, and this Roasted Butternut Squash Crostini is a recipe that truly warms the heart. It’s a blend of flavors and textures that reminds me of fall evenings in Crete the scent of roasted vegetables, a drizzle of honey, and laughter shared over a good meal.
Whether you serve these as an appetizer, a holiday treat, or even a quick snack for guests, they bring a touch of elegance and comfort to any table. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity every ingredient shines.
So this season, grab a baguette, roast some golden squash, and create your own moment of autumn magic. These crostini may be small, but they leave a big impression.