Simple Christmas Bruschetta Wreath Recipe

Introduction

This Simple Christmas Bruschetta Wreath is a festive and flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. Combining fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy cheese on toasted baguette slices, it creates a beautiful and delicious centerpiece.

Ingredients

• 4 ripe Roma tomatoes, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1 garlic clove, for rubbing
• Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish
• 1/2 cup soft white cheese (ricotta, cream cheese, or mozzarella pearls)
• Optional: Grated Parmesan

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast them for 5 to 7 minutes, or until they turn golden and crisp.
2. Step 2: While the bread is still warm, rub each toasted slice with the cut side of a garlic clove to infuse them with subtle garlic flavor.
3. Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Allow this mixture to rest for 10 minutes so the flavors meld together.
4. Step 4: Gently fold the soft white cheese into the tomato mixture, being careful not to break up the cheese too much.
5. Step 5: Arrange the toasted baguette slices in a circular pattern on a round serving platter to form a wreath shape.
6. Step 6: Spoon the tomato and cheese mixture evenly onto each baguette slice.
7. Step 7: Garnish the wreath with fresh rosemary sprigs to resemble pine needles and sprinkle with grated Parmesan if desired.
8. Step 8: Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors and crisp textures.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mix of cherry tomatoes for added color and sweetness.
• For a vegan option, substitute the cheese with a plant-based spread.
• Drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the bruschetta for a touch of sweetness and depth.
• Prepare the tomato mixture ahead of time and keep it chilled; toast the bread just before serving to maintain crunch.

Storage

It’s best to serve this bruschetta fresh, as the bread may become soggy if stored with the toppings. If you must store leftovers, keep the tomato mixture and toasted bread slices separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Re-toast the bread before serving and spoon fresh tomato mixture on top.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of bread besides baguette?

Yes, you can use Italian bread or ciabatta sliced thinly. Just make sure to toast the slices well so they hold up under the toppings.

How far in advance can I prepare the tomato mixture?

You can prepare the tomato mixture up to 24 hours ahead and keep it refrigerated. This allows the flavors to develop. Just stir gently before using.

Simple Christmas Bruschetta Wreath Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 87 reviews

• Author: Hugo
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 24 bruschetta slices (serves 8–12 as an appetizer) 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A festive and easy-to-make Christmas bruschetta wreath featuring toasted baguette slices topped with a fresh tomato, basil, garlic, and soft cheese mixture, garnished with rosemary sprigs and optional Parmesan for a perfect holiday appetizer.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Tomato Mixture

• 4 ripe Roma tomatoes, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup soft white cheese (ricotta, cream cheese, or mozzarella pearls)
• Optional: Grated Parmesan

Bread and Garnish

• 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1 garlic clove, for rubbing
• Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Toast Bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 5 to 7 minutes or until they turn golden and crisp.
2. Garlic Rub: While the bread is still warm, rub each toasted slice with the cut side of a garlic clove to impart a subtle garlic flavor.
3. Prepare Tomato Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Allow this mixture to rest for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
4. Combine Cheese: Gently fold the soft white cheese into the tomato mixture to add creaminess and richness to the topping.
5. Arrange Bread: On a round serving platter, arrange the toasted baguette slices in a circular pattern to create a wreath shape.
6. Top Bruschetta: Spoon the tomato and cheese mixture generously onto each baguette slice.
7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the bruschetta wreath with fresh rosemary sprigs and sprinkle with grated Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the best flavor and texture.

Notes

• Use ripe Roma tomatoes for the best flavor and less watery topping.
• Soft white cheeses like ricotta, cream cheese, or mozzarella pearls all work well depending on preference.
• For a stronger garlic flavor, rub the baguette slices while still warm immediately after toasting.
• Serve immediately to keep the baguette crispy and toppings fresh.
• Optional Parmesan adds a savory, salty finish but can be omitted for a milder taste.
• Fresh rosemary sprigs add festive color and a subtle pine aroma, enhancing the holiday presentation.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: Christmas appetizer, festive bruschetta, holiday appetizer, tomato basil bruschetta, easy holiday recipe, vegetarian appetizer