Grilled Strawberry Jalapeño and Cream Cheese Crostini

This grilled strawberry jalapeño and cream cheese crostini is a bold, sweet-and-spicy appetizer that I love serving at gatherings or enjoying as a fancy little snack for myself. It brings together smoky grilled strawberries, creamy whipped cheese, and a touch of heat on crispy crostini slices. It’s unique, vibrant, and totally addictive.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe takes something familiar like crostini and transforms it with unexpected flavors. The grilled strawberries get juicy and slightly caramelized, the jalapeño adds a gentle kick, and the cream cheese keeps everything creamy and cool. It’s a show-stopping bite-sized dish that feels both gourmet and effortless.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh strawberries (hulled and halved)
• Fresh jalapeño (thinly sliced)
• Baguette (sliced into rounds)
• Olive oil
• Cream cheese (softened)
• Honey (optional, for drizzling)
• Salt
• Fresh basil or mint (optional garnish)

Directions

1. I start by preheating my grill or grill pan over medium heat.

2. I lightly brush the strawberry halves with olive oil and place them on the grill, cut side down. I grill them for 1–2 minutes until they’re lightly charred and softened, then set them aside to cool.

3. I brush the baguette slices with olive oil and toast them on the grill for 1–2 minutes per side, until they’re golden and crisp.

4. While everything cools slightly, I spread a generous layer of softened cream cheese on each crostini.

5. I top each with a grilled strawberry half and a thin slice of fresh jalapeño.

6. I drizzle lightly with honey if I want a bit of sweetness and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. A little fresh basil or mint adds a pop of color and flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 crostini, perfect for serving 4 to 6 people as an appetizer. It takes me around 20 minutes to prep and grill everything, making it a quick and impressive option for entertaining.

Variations

• I use goat cheese instead of cream cheese when I want a tangier flavor.

• I sometimes add a balsamic glaze drizzle instead of honey for a richer, savory edge.

• For more heat, I grill the jalapeño slices too.

• I’ve even tried it with grilled peaches or pineapple in place of strawberries—equally delicious.

storage/reheating

These crostini are best assembled fresh, but I prep components ahead. I store grilled strawberries in the fridge for up to 2 days, and I keep the toasted crostini in an airtight container at room temp. I don’t reheat them—just assemble when I’m ready to serve.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Yes, I use a grill pan or even a hot skillet to char the strawberries and toast the bread. The goal is just to get that smoky caramelized flavor.

How spicy is it with the jalapeño?

It’s mildly spicy, especially with thin slices. I remove the seeds for less heat, or skip them entirely for a no-spice version.

Can I use a different bread?

Definitely. I use sourdough, ciabatta, or even crackers depending on what I have. Anything that holds up to toppings works.

What kind of cream cheese should I use?

I usually go with regular full-fat cream cheese for richness, but whipped cream cheese makes spreading even easier.

Can I serve these cold?

Yes, I’ve served them at room temperature and they still taste amazing. The grilled strawberries hold their flavor well even after cooling.

Conclusion

This grilled strawberry jalapeño and cream cheese crostini is one of those recipes that surprises and delights every time. It’s sweet, spicy, creamy, and crunchy—all in one bite. Whether I’m entertaining or just treating myself to something a little special, this crostini always brings the wow factor.

Grilled Strawberry Jalapeño and Cream Cheese Crostini

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• Author: Mary
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 12 crostini (serves 4–6)
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American Fusion
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Grilled Strawberry Jalapeño and Cream Cheese Crostini are the ultimate sweet-and-spicy appetizer. Juicy, caramelized strawberries meet cool cream cheese and a kick of fresh jalapeño atop crispy grilled baguette slices. Perfect for entertaining or a unique snack, this vibrant crostini recipe is bold, fresh, and full of gourmet flavor in every bite.

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Ingredients

• Fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
• Fresh jalapeño, thinly sliced
• Baguette, sliced into rounds
• Olive oil
• Cream cheese, softened
• Honey (optional, for drizzling)
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh basil or mint (optional garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat grill or grill pan over medium heat.
2. Lightly brush strawberry halves with olive oil and grill cut side down for 1–2 minutes until softened and lightly charred. Set aside.
3. Brush baguette slices with olive oil and grill for 1–2 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
4. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese on each toasted crostini.
5. Top each with a grilled strawberry half and a thin slice of jalapeño.
6. Drizzle with honey (optional), sprinkle with salt, and garnish with fresh basil or mint if desired.
7. Serve immediately or at room temperature.

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Notes

• Substitute goat cheese for a tangier flavor.

• Use balsamic glaze instead of honey for a savory twist.

• Grill jalapeño slices for more heat and a smoky touch.

• Try grilled peaches or pineapple as a variation.

• Prep strawberries and crostini in advance and assemble before serving.