Description
This Fall Bruschetta combines roasted butternut squash, crisp apple, and creamy goat cheese on toasted ciabatta — topped with pecans, cranberries, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s the perfect cozy appetizer for autumn gatherings, blending sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
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1 ciabatta baguette, cut into ¼-inch slices
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2 tbsp olive oil, plus more for brushing
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 cup butternut squash, cut into small cubes
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1 red apple, diced
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½ tsp ground cinnamon
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¼ tsp nutmeg
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Pinch of allspice
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5 oz. goat cheese, at room temperature
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3 tbsp pecans, roughly chopped
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3 tbsp dried cranberries
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Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
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Fresh thyme leaves (optional, but recommended)
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly spray a large baking sheet with non-stick spray.
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Arrange the ciabatta slices on one side of the sheet. Brush both sides with olive oil, then season lightly with salt and pepper.
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In a medium bowl, toss the butternut squash, apple, 2 tbsp olive oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice until coated. Spread the mixture on the other half of the baking sheet.
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Bake for 20 minutes, or until the bread is golden and crisp and the squash and apples are tender.
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Spread a layer of goat cheese onto each toasted slice.
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Top with a spoonful of the roasted mixture, then sprinkle pecans and dried cranberries on top.
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Drizzle with balsamic glaze and finish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
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Serve immediately and enjoy warm!
Notes
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You can roast the squash and apples ahead of time, then assemble the bruschetta right before serving.
Swap goat cheese for ricotta or cream cheese for a milder flavor.
For a nut-free option, skip pecans or replace them with roasted pumpkin seeds.
Serve with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling cider for the perfect fall pairing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Oven-baked
- Cuisine: American, Seasonal
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 165 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 130 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 8 mg