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Baked Crostini

Baking crostini involves slicing a rustic baguette, brushing the slices with olive oil, and baking until golden and crispy. The process transforms simple bread into a sturdy, crunchy base with a fragrant aroma, perfect for toppings. The final texture is crisp and golden, with a satisfying crunch that holds toppings without sogging.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: French
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large baguette preferably rustic with a thick crust
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil for brushing
  • 1 clove garlic for rubbing on hot crostini
  • 1 pinch sea salt for sprinkling

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone mat
  • Pastry brush
  • Cooling rack
  • Knife

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Using a sharp knife, slice the baguette into 1/2-inch thick rounds, aiming for even slices to ensure uniform toasting.
  3. Arrange the slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they don't overlap for even baking.
  4. Using a pastry brush, generously brush each slice with olive oil, focusing on the edges for extra crispness. The slices should glisten but not be soaked.
  5. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes, until the slices start turning golden around the edges and smell toasted.
  6. Carefully flip each slice over with tongs or a spatula to promote even toasting on both sides.
  7. Continue baking for another 5-7 minutes, watching closely as they turn deep golden and fill the kitchen with a toasty aroma.
  8. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately rub each hot crostini with a cut clove of garlic for a fragrant punch of flavor.
  9. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the crostini while they are still warm to enhance their flavor.
  10. Transfer the crostini to a cooling rack and let them rest for a few minutes to maintain their crispness.
  11. Serve the crostini immediately with your favorite toppings or store in an airtight container for up to two days, reheating briefly if needed to restore crunch.