Bruschetta with Strawberries and Cream Cheese

Name: Bruschetta with Strawberries and Cream Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 French baguette, sliced; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tbsp honey; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Desserts Favorites

I absolutely adore this Bruschetta with Strawberries and Cream Cheese recipe! The combination of fresh strawberries, creamy cheese, and crispy bread makes for a delightful treat that's perfect for any occasion. I've made it for brunches, picnics, and even cozy evenings at home. Every bite bursts with flavor, and the contrast between the sweet strawberries and the tangy cream cheese complements the crunchy baguette perfectly. It's an easy, quick dish that elevates any gathering or casual snack time.

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:29:35.302Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of combining strawberries with cream cheese on bruschetta, I was a bit skeptical. However, after my first bite, I was hooked! The creamy richness of the cheese pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of the strawberries, creating a harmony that’s both surprising and satisfying. I love using fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.

One crucial tip I've learned is to toast the bread just enough to make it crispy without being dry. This way, it holds the toppings well and adds a wonderful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the cheese. It’s a simple but impactful detail that takes this dish over the top!

        You'll Love This Recipe Because
        The sweet strawberries perfectly balance the rich cream cheese.
It’s an effortless appetizer that impresses every time.
The crunchy baguette provides a satisfying texture.

      

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

Using ripe, sweet strawberries is crucial for this bruschetta recipe. Their natural sweetness is beautifully enhanced by the honey and vanilla extract, creating a refreshing topping that elevates the cream cheese. When selecting strawberries, look for ones that are firm yet slightly soft to the touch, as they tend to be juicier. This balance ensures that each bite has a harmonious interplay of sweet and tangy flavors, making the bruschetta irresistible.

The cream cheese serves as a rich and creamy foundation, perfectly contrasting the brightness of the strawberries. For a twist, consider using flavored cream cheese varieties, such as one mixed with herbs or spices, to add another layer of complexity to the dish. Whipping the cream cheese slightly before spreading can create an even smoother texture, making it easy to spread and ensuring it's well-incorporated with the fruits.

Tips for Toasting Baguette

To achieve the ideal toast, preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) is essential. While toasting, keep a close eye on the baguette slices, as they can quickly go from golden brown to over-toasted. The perfect toast has a crispy outside but remains soft inside, holding the toppings without becoming soggy. Alternatively, you can also toast the slices on a grill or in a toaster oven for a smoky flavor, adding an extra dimension to your bruschetta.

If you prefer a bit of seasoning, drizzle the baguette slices with olive oil and sprinkle with salt before toasting. This step not only enhances flavor but also adds a slightly crunchy texture that elevates the overall experience. Make sure to toast enough bread to account for any breakage or imperfections in the slices, ensuring you've got enough perfect bites to serve your guests.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare this delightful dish:

Ingredients

1 French baguette, sliced
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tbsp honey
1 tsp vanilla extract
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to create a delicious bruschetta!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your bruschetta:

Prepare the Strawberries

In a medium bowl, mix the sliced strawberries with honey and vanilla extract. Set aside to let the flavors meld.

Toast the Baguette

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 5 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

Spread the Cream Cheese

Once the baguette slices are toasted, spread a generous layer of softened cream cheese on each slice.

Top with Strawberries

Spoon the honeyed strawberries onto the cream cheese-covered toast. Be sure to cover each slice generously.

Garnish and Serve

If desired, garnish each bruschetta with a mint leaf. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious treat!

Your bruschetta is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For a fun twist, try adding a sprinkle of balsamic glaze on top for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Bruschetta with Strawberries and Cream Cheese pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. It’s a perfect accompaniment to sweet iced teas or sparkling wines, which enhance the fruitiness of the strawberries. For a more casual setting, consider serving them with a light lemon-infused water to cleanse the palate between bites, allowing the flavors to shine.

For brunch gatherings, these bruschettas can be presented alongside other finger foods, such as mini quiches or savory pastries, creating a delightful spread. Consider adding a cheese board with a selection of cheeses that complement the sweetness, providing guests with an opportunity to mix and match flavors.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

While bruschetta is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the individual components ahead of time. Slice the baguette and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day. The strawberries can be mixed with honey and vanilla and refrigerated for up to two hours prior to serving. When ready to serve, toast the baguette slices and assemble each bruschetta right before enjoyment to maintain optimal texture.

If you’re looking to make this recipe in advance for a larger gathering, consider serving the components separately to allow guests to build their own bruschetta. This not only adds an interactive element to your event but also helps prevent sogginess from the cream cheese and strawberries.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this bruschetta ahead of time?

It's best to prepare the components separately and assemble just before serving to maintain the crunch of the bread.

→ What other toppings can I use?

You can experiment with different fruits like peaches or raspberries, or even add a sprinkle of nuts for texture.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this bruschetta is completely vegetarian and can be enjoyed by everyone!

→ How do I store leftovers?

If you have leftovers, store the components separately in the fridge and assemble them when ready to eat.