Bruschetta Burrata is a captivating appetizer that effortlessly brings elegance to the table. It’s a harmonious blend of textures—crisp, golden crostini topped with the silken richness of burrata, fresh cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Each bite offers a delightful contrast—creamy and crunchy, sweet and tangy, soft yet structured. This dish is not only a visual stunner but a flavorful celebration, perfect for intimate dinners, festive gatherings, or casual brunch spreads.
Ingredients Breakdown
At the heart of this recipe lies a symphony of high-quality ingredients, each bringing its own flair to the dish.
Burrata cheese stands at the forefront, its luscious, creamy center wrapped in a delicate mozzarella shell. When sliced, it gently cascades over the crostini, adding a decadent, buttery texture that complements every element of the bruschetta.
Cherry tomatoes—both red and yellow—introduce vibrant color and a subtle tang that cuts through the richness of the burrata. When thinly sliced, they release their natural juices, enhancing the overall freshness of the topping.
Fresh basil leaves, finely shredded, bring an aromatic herbaceous note. The sweet-spicy fragrance of basil ties together the cheese and tomatoes, elevating the overall flavor complexity.
A French baguette serves as the sturdy base. When toasted, its exterior turns golden and crisp while the interior remains lightly chewy. This balance ensures it holds the toppings well without becoming too brittle or soggy.
Olive oil and balsamic glaze round out the profile. A drizzle of robust olive oil lends depth, while the sweet acidity of the glaze introduces a bold finish. A final touch of salt and cracked black pepper brings everything into harmony.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
To begin, preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and prepare two baking trays lined with parchment paper. This ensures a non-stick surface and even heat distribution.
Slice the baguette into uniform ¼-inch thick rounds—this thickness offers the ideal balance between crunch and bite. Generously brush both sides of each slice with olive oil. Arrange them neatly on the baking trays, allowing a bit of space between each piece to encourage even browning.
Bake for about 20 minutes, flipping the slices at the 10-minute mark. This rotation ensures a uniformly golden crust and avoids any undercooked spots. The goal is a crostini that is crisp yet tender enough to bite without crumbling.
Once the crostini have cooled slightly, arrange them on a serving platter. Begin layering by adding a slice of burrata to each toast. Follow with a scattering of thinly sliced cherry tomatoes and a generous pinch of shredded basil.
Finish by drizzling balsamic glaze over the top, letting it cascade in delicate ribbons across the surface. Add a final sprinkle of salt and freshly cracked black pepper to bring the dish to life.
Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
How to prevent soggy bruschetta:
Always allow crostini to cool completely before assembling. This prevents steam from softening the crisp exterior. Assemble just before serving for best results.
The best way to slice burrata without losing its creamy center:
Use a sharp, non-serrated knife and slice gently. If it begins to ooze, let it rest briefly in the fridge before slicing again for more structure.
Adjusting the balsamic glaze to suit your taste:
For a milder profile, use a light drizzle. For a more assertive bite, add a second pass of glaze just before serving.
Prepping ahead without sacrificing freshness:
The crostini can be toasted and stored in an airtight container up to a day in advance. Tomatoes and basil can be prepped earlier, but keep burrata slicing and assembly until the last moment.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best to toast the bread and prep the toppings ahead, but assembly should be done fresh to maintain texture and flavor.
What’s the best substitute for burrata?
Fresh mozzarella or whipped ricotta can be used in place of burrata, though the texture will differ slightly.
How do I keep the crostini crisp after assembling?
Serve immediately after topping. Alternatively, provide the components separately for guests to assemble on their own.
Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, sourdough, ciabatta, or a rustic Italian loaf work well—just ensure it’s firm enough to hold toppings without falling apart.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Bruschetta Burrata pairs effortlessly with a variety of dishes and drinks. A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Noir enhances its creamy and tangy notes. For non-alcoholic pairings, a sparkling citrus mocktail offers refreshing contrast.
This appetizer also complements an antipasto spread—olives, marinated artichokes, cured meats, and roasted peppers make ideal companions. It’s equally welcome on a charcuterie board, where it adds a luxurious cheese element with minimal effort.
Perfect for brunch, dinner parties, or even a romantic picnic, this dish shines in both formal and casual settings. Serve it as a starter or as part of a grazing table to impress guests with minimal complexity.
Creative Variations to Try
This versatile recipe invites experimentation. Add prosciutto or smoked salmon for a savory twist—both pair wonderfully with burrata and elevate the dish into a more substantial bite.
For a different flavor profile, swap out cherry tomatoes for sun-dried tomatoes or fire-roasted red peppers. These options introduce a smoky, intense dimension to the classic recipe.
Try flavored olive oils infused with rosemary, chili, or garlic for a subtle variation in taste. Herb-infused balsamic glazes, such as fig or pomegranate, can also add unexpected depth to each bite.
Bruschetta Burrata is a beautiful fusion of simplicity and sophistication. Its combination of creamy cheese, fresh produce, and toasted bread creates a memorable bite that suits any occasion. Whether served as an elegant appetizer or a shareable snack, this dish brings charm and flavor to the table with every crisp, creamy mouthful.
Ingredients
8 oz burrata cheese, thinly sliced
6 oz red and yellow cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced
1 French baguette
4 tablespoons balsamic glaze
½ cup olive oil
4 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, finely shredded
Pinch of salt
Cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and prepare two baking trays by lining them with parchment paper.
Slice the baguette into twelve pieces, each about ¼ inch thick. Lightly brush both sides of each slice with olive oil and arrange them evenly on the prepared trays.
Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the bread is crisp and golden. Halfway through baking—at the 10-minute mark—rotate the trays and flip each slice of bread to ensure even toasting on all sides.
Once the crostini are toasted to a light golden hue, remove from the oven and allow them to cool to room temperature.
Arrange the cooled crostini on a serving platter. Top each piece with a layer of burrata cheese, followed by a scattering of sliced cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of freshly shredded basil leaves.
Finish with a light drizzle of balsamic glaze over each crostini. Season with a pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper just before serving.
Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and texture.
Bruschetta Burrata Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz burrata cheese thinly sliced
- 6 oz red and yellow cherry tomatoes thinly sliced
- 1 French baguette
- 4 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- ½ cup olive oil
- 4 tablespoons fresh basil leaves finely shredded
- Pinch of salt
- Cracked black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and prepare two baking trays by lining them with parchment paper.
- Slice the baguette into twelve pieces, each about ¼ inch thick. Lightly brush both sides of each slice with olive oil and arrange them evenly on the prepared trays.
- Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the bread is crisp and golden. Halfway through baking—at the 10-minute mark—rotate the trays and flip each slice of bread to ensure even toasting on all sides.
- Once the crostini are toasted to a light golden hue, remove from the oven and allow them to cool to room temperature.
- Arrange the cooled crostini on a serving platter. Top each piece with a layer of burrata cheese, followed by a scattering of sliced cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of freshly shredded basil leaves.
- Finish with a light drizzle of balsamic glaze over each crostini. Season with a pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper just before serving.
- Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and texture.
