Smashed Blackberry Recipe
on Whipped Goat Cheese Crostini
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Ingredients
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Crostini & goat cheese base
Smashed blackberry topping
Finish & garnish
Method
Crostini & goat cheese base
- 1
Prepare and slice baguette
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a serrated knife, slice the baguette on the bias into 20–24 slices about 1/2-inch thick. Arrange slices in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- 2
- 3
Whip the goat cheese
While the bread toasts, place goat cheese, 2 tbs milk or cream, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper in a mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer or whisk, beat until smooth and fluffy, about 1–2 minutes. Taste and adjust salt/pepper if needed. Transfer to a small bowl for spreading.
Smashed blackberry topping
- 4
Macereate and smash blackberries
Place the 16 oz fresh blackberries in a medium bowl. Add 2 tbs granulated sugar, 1 tbs lemon juice, 1 tsp lemon zest, and 1/4 tsp coarse sea salt. Using a fork or potato masher, gently smash the berries to release juices but leave some berry texture — aim for a mix of mashed and whole pieces. Let sit 8–10 minutes to macerate so the sugar dissolves and flavors meld.
- 5
Adjust seasoning and add thyme
After macerating, taste the mixture and add up to 1/2 tbs more lemon juice or a pinch more sugar if needed. Stir in 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves if using. The topping should be slightly glossy and spoonable but not runny.
Finish & assembly
- 6
Assemble crostini
Spread about 1 heaping tablespoon of whipped goat cheese on each toasted baguette slice. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the smashed blackberry mixture over the cheese, letting a few whole berries sit on top for visual appeal.
- 7
Garnish and serve
Drizzle each crostini with a light stream of honey (about 1/2 tsp per crostini). Sprinkle chopped toasted pistachios or walnuts over the top and finish with a small pinch of freshly cracked black pepper. Add microgreens or thyme sprig for garnish if desired. Arrange on a platter and serve immediately.
- 8
Make-ahead and storage
You can toast the crostini and whip the goat cheese up to 1 day ahead; store crostini in an airtight container at room temperature and goat cheese in the refrigerator. Keep the blackberry mixture refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 48 hours; stir before assembling. Add honey and nuts just before serving to preserve texture.