Bruschetta with Strawberries and Cream Cheese

Name: Bruschetta with Strawberries and Cream Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 baguette, sliced; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons sugar; Balsamic glaze, for drizzling; Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Recipes

I absolutely love making bruschetta with strawberries and cream cheese for a delightful appetizer or dessert. The combination of sweet, ripe strawberries and tangy cream cheese spread on crispy, toasted bread creates an irresistible treat that’s perfect for any occasion. I often serve it at gatherings or enjoy it as a sweet snack on lazy afternoons. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up in just a few minutes, making it an ideal choice for unexpected guests or a cozy night in with friends.

Created by

Charlotte Wilson

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:57:37.228Z

When I first tried bruschetta with strawberries and cream cheese at a friend's barbecue, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The sweetness of the strawberries paired beautifully with the richness of the cream cheese, all elevated by a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It was an unexpected twist on the traditional savory bruschetta, and I couldn’t stop thinking about it!

To recreate this dish at home, I learned the importance of selecting the ripest strawberries for maximum flavor. A great tip is to let the strawberries sit in a bit of sugar for a few minutes; it intensifies their natural sweetness and creates a lovely syrup that takes this dish over the top!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A sweet and savory twist on classic bruschetta
Creamy texture from the cream cheese pairs perfectly with juicy strawberries
Quick and easy to prepare, making it great for any occasion

      

Choosing the Right Bread

Selecting a good quality baguette is crucial for this bruschetta recipe. Look for a baguette with a crusty exterior and a soft interior, ideally baked fresh that day. The texture of the bread should be crispy enough to hold up to the cream cheese and strawberries without becoming soggy. If a baguette isn't available, consider using ciabatta or sourdough, both of which offer unique flavors and textures that complement the toppings beautifully.

Toasting the bread is another key step. Keep a close eye while it toasts to ensure it doesn’t burn. Ideally, the slices should be golden brown and slightly crisp when you take them out of the oven. Don't skip this step, as the crispy bread provides a satisfying contrast to the creamy filling and juicy strawberries.

Enhancing Strawberry Flavor

When preparing the strawberries, the addition of sugar not only helps to sweeten them, but also draws out their natural juices, creating a lovely syrup that enhances the overall flavor of the dish. For an extra layer of taste, try adding a splash of vanilla extract or a hint of lemon juice to the strawberries. This will brighten their flavor even more, adding a refreshing twist to each bite.

If strawberries are out of season or you prefer a different fruit, you can easily swap in other berries like raspberries or blueberries. Just remember to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruits you choose. This flexibility allows you to enjoy this bruschetta throughout the year, tailored to whatever fruits are fresh and available.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your bruschetta:

Ingredients

1 baguette, sliced
8 oz cream cheese, softened
2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons sugar
Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)

Enjoy your fresh bruschetta!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your bruschetta:

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, mix the sliced strawberries with sugar and let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.

Toast the Baguette

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes until 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 sugared strawberries over the cream cheese, making sure to capture some of the syrup.

Finish and Serve

Drizzle balsamic glaze on top and garnish with fresh mint, if using. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Delight in your delicious bruschetta!

Pro Tips

For an added depth of flavor, consider mixing some lemon zest into the cream cheese. This will enhance the overall brightness of the strawberries.

Serving Suggestions

This bruschetta is versatile and can be served at various gatherings, from casual brunches to elegant dinner parties. It pairs beautifully with a light white wine or a refreshing iced tea. For a fun twist, consider serving them on a platter with a variety of toppings, such as crushed nuts or a sprinkle of powdered sugar, to allow guests to customize their bites.

If you're preparing for a potluck or picnic, this dish travels well when assembled just before serving. You can prepare the cream cheese and strawberries ahead of time, transporting them separately, then toast the bread and assemble on-site for optimal freshness.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to make this bruschetta ahead of time, I recommend preparing the cream cheese mixture and strawberries in advance, storing them in airtight containers. However, it’s best to toast the bread right before serving to maintain its crispy texture; soggy bread ruins the experience. You can also pre-slice the baguette and store the slices in a sealed bag to keep them fresh.

Leftover bruschetta can be stored in the refrigerator for a day, but keep in mind that the bread will soften. If you want to save the components, store them separately and pair them back together when you're ready to enjoy them again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with other fruits like peaches or blueberries.

→ How can I make this dish ahead of time?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the cream cheese spread and sliced strawberries a few hours in advance.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you prefer.

→ Can I serve this as a savory dish?

Yes! Simply replace the strawberries with tomatoes and add fresh basil for a classic savory bruschetta.