Save to Pinterest Elevate your appetizer game with these sophisticated Vodka Butter Crostini. The combination of crispy, golden baguette slices and a velvety vodka-infused butter creates a luxurious bite that's perfect for elegant gatherings and contemporary cocktail parties. The subtle kick of vodka adds an unexpected depth of flavor, while fresh lemon zest and fragrant chives bring brightness and herbal notes that balance the rich butter perfectly.
Save to Pinterest The beauty of this appetizer lies in its simplicity and the transformative power of quality ingredients. When the butter is whipped with vodka, it becomes lighter and more spreadable, while the alcohol enhances the butter's natural flavors and helps distribute the aromatic lemon zest and chives evenly across each crostini. The result is an elegant canapé that feels restaurant-quality yet comes together effortlessly in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- Crostini:
- 1 fresh baguette
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Vodka Butter:
- 100 g (7 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ tbsp vodka
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp finely chopped chives (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- 1.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- 2.
- Slice the baguette into 12 even slices, about ½ inch thick.
- 3.
- Arrange slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
- 4.
- Bake for 6–8 minutes, turning once, until golden and crisp. Let cool slightly.
- 5.
- In a small bowl, whisk the softened butter with vodka, salt, lemon zest, and chives (if using) until smooth and creamy.
- 6.
- Spread a generous layer of vodka butter on each crostini.
- 7.
- Finish with a sprinkle of black pepper and serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For perfectly crisp crostini, slice your baguette evenly and keep a close eye on them while baking—they can go from golden to burnt quickly. The butter should be truly softened to room temperature before whisking to ensure a smooth, creamy texture without lumps. If preparing ahead, bake the crostini in advance but wait to add the vodka butter until just before serving to maintain the ideal crisp-to-creamy contrast.
Varianten und Anpassungen
While the classic vodka butter is delicious on its own, you can customize this recipe to suit different occasions. Substitute fresh dill for chives to pair with smoked salmon, or add minced garlic for an extra savory kick. For a non-alcoholic version, replace the vodka with lemon juice or white wine. The crostini base also works beautifully with herbed goat cheese, ricotta with honey, or a classic olive tapenade spread.
Serviervorschläge
Arrange these crostini on a wooden board or elegant serving platter for maximum visual impact. They pair exceptionally well with sparkling wine, dry white wine, or a light vodka cocktail. Consider setting up a crostini bar with various toppings—smoked salmon, capers, thinly sliced radishes, or microgreens—allowing guests to customize their own elegant bites. These appetizers are best served immediately while the crostini are still crisp and the butter is at its most velvety.
Save to Pinterest 
Save to Pinterest 
These Vodka Butter Crostini embody the art of contemporary appetizers—simple ingredients transformed through technique into something truly special. Whether you're hosting an intimate dinner party or a large celebration, these elegant bites are sure to impress your guests with their sophisticated flavors and beautiful presentation. The combination of warm, crisp bread and cool, creamy butter creates a textural harmony that's impossible to resist.
Questions & Answers
- → Can you taste the vodka in the butter?
The vodka provides a subtle, sophisticated background note rather than a strong alcohol flavor. It enhances the butter's richness and adds a refined finish. You can adjust the amount to suit your preference.
- → How far ahead can I prepare these crostini?
Bake the crostini up to a day in advance and store in an airtight container. The vodka butter can be prepared 2-3 days ahead and refrigerated. Assemble shortly before serving for the best texture.
- → What toppings work well with vodka butter crostini?
Smoked salmon, capers, thinly sliced radishes, or fresh herbs complement the flavors beautifully. You can also add a pinch of flaky sea salt or microgreens for extra presentation.
- → Can I make the butter without vodka?
Yes, simply omit the vodka for a classic lemon-chive butter. You could substitute with a splash of white wine or lemon juice for a similar bright flavor profile.
- → What's the best way to store leftover crostini?
Store assembled crostini in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, though they're best served immediately. For longer storage, keep components separate and assemble when ready to serve.
- → Can I use different bread for the crostini?
A fresh baguette works best for its texture and size, but you can use ciabatta, sourdough, or rustic Italian bread. Slice thinly and adjust baking time as needed.