This Butternut Squash Crostini is a warm and elegant fall appetizer made with roasted butternut squash, honey, and walnuts for the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. The crisp baguette slices hold a tender topping that's full of cozy autumn charm.
I love serving this during the holidays when I want something light but still flavorful before the main meal. It's a beautiful make ahead bite that looks just as festive as it tastes. Similar in spirit to my xxxxx
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
Simple prep: no complicated steps, just roast, toast, and top.
Seasonal flavor: sweet honey-roasted squash with a hint of spice feels like fall in every bite.
Perfect for gatherings: this makes an elegant holiday crostini that doubles as an easy starter for dinner parties.
Key Ingredients for Roasted Butternut Squash Bites
See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and instructions.
- Butternut squash: naturally sweet and hearty, its the star of this fall appetizer.
- Honey: adds a golden glaze and enhances the caramelized flavor.
- Red pepper flakes: a touch of heat balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Caper berries: give a briny pop that keeps each bite bright and interesting.
- Walnuts: add crunch and a nutty finish that pairs perfectly with the roasted squash.
- Baguette: the crisp base that holds it all together.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper, earthy sweetness.
- Swap pecans for walnuts if you prefer a softer crunch.
- Try butternut squash cubes from the freezer aisle to save time on prep.
Variations on Butternut Squash Crostini
- Add a layer of whipped ricotta or goat cheese before topping with squash for a creamy twist.
- Top with pomegranate arils or dried cranberries for a colorful holiday touch.
- Make it spicy by drizzling with hot honey just before serving.
Tips for Perfect Holiday Crostini
- Even roasting: cut the squash into uniform pieces so it cooks evenly.
- Don't overload the baguette: a tablespoon of topping is plenty. It keeps them easy to eat.
- Serve warm: these crostini taste best fresh from the oven or gently reheated before serving.
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftover roasted squash mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, then spoon over freshly toasted baguette slices when ready to serve.
Serve With...
Pair this Butternut Squash Crostini with Turkey Charcuterie Board, Bacon Deviled Eggs, Bacon Wrapped Venison Bites, and Grape Jelly Meatballs (Slow Cooker Recipe) for a holiday party spread.
More Recipes for Fall Appetizers
For more fall favorites, try my Pepper Jelly Ham and Cheese Sliders, Sausage Corn Dog Bites, Loaded Potato Soup, and Fiesta Tortilla Roll Ups.
When you make this recipe, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!
If you love this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating
📖 Recipe
Butternut Squash Bruschetta
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Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash , diced
- 2 tablespoons honey
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 10 caper berries , chopped
- ¼ cup walnuts , roughly chopped
- 16 ounce baguette , sliced diagonally
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons grated asiago cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- In a medium bowl, mix the butternut squash, honey, red pepper flakes, caper berries, olive oil and walnuts until well combined.
- Transfer the squash mixture to a heavy duty baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove the squash from the oven and stir. Bake 15 minutes longer, until squash is tender.
- Remove the squash from the oven and allow to cool to room temperature.
- Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and drizzle with the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toast in the oven for 7 minutes, until baguette slices start to turn lightly browned around the edges and are crisp.
- Remove the baguette slices from the oven and top with a tablespoon of squash mixture. Garnish with asiago cheese and chives (if using).
Linda says
The flavors you describe do sound like the perfect bite! I would want way too many bites of this. And I haven't bought a butternut squash yet - I need to put one on my list.
Michelle says
Just thinking about this makes my mouth water with all the different tastes and textures 😀 Looks like a fun appetizer!
Dining Alone says
this looks so tasty, what a unique appetizer!
Suzi says
Wow, I am intrigued with this brushetta's toppings. What are caper berries? Looks delicious.
Tracy says
Ooh, it looks great. I wish I hadn't just used my last butternut squash on a so-so soup!