This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ginnie's Take

Once autumn arrives, I'm all about pumpkin. Sure it's tasty in sweet treats, but I especially love using fresh pumpkin in more unexpected ways, like this savory Pumpkin Stew. You're going to love this scrumptious recipe! The stew is made with an irresistible combination of cozy ingredients: tender chunks of squash, hearty butter beans, fresh kale and other veggies, along with a warm Moroccan-inspired spice blend (yum). It's total comfort food!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Delicious - You might not guess it, but pumpkin in stew is super tasty! Especially when it's paired with a mouthwatering mix of fresh vegetables, hearty beans, and warm spices. So delicious, plus low cal and nutritious to boot!
• Easy to Make - This one pot meal is quite simple to prepare. There are no fancy techniques, and the ingredients are easy to find. You can even make it ahead of time, then relax with a big bowl during a busy week.
• Comforting - This chunky vegetable stew is loaded with warming fall flavors. It's a comfort food recipe you'll return to each autumn!

Ingredients

This yummy Squash Stew is made with basic, easy to find ingredients! Here's what you'll need:

• Pumpkin - This recipe is made with fresh pumpkin. I recommend using a pie pumpkin, not a carving pumpkin. These smaller pumpkins have a much better flavor and texture than the jack-o'-lantern variety.
• Beans - You'll need two cans of butter beans (or other white beans).
• Veggies - A mix of onions, celery, carrots, and garlic form the soup's savory base, and fresh kale adds a wonderful taste and texture.
• Spices - This recipe has a Moroccan-inspired blend of spices: cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and crushed red pepper flakes.
• Broth - You'll need some broth. I keep bouillon on hand to make my own whenever I need it. Better Than Bouillon vegetable base is my fave!
• Tomato Paste - A little tomato paste adds a rich, umami flavor. Tip: If you have leftover tomato paste, make this amazing Tomato Mascarpone Pasta!

This recipe is vegetarian, vegan, dairy free, gluten free, and nut free, so everyone at your table can enjoy it!

You'll Also Need

Grab a vegetable peeler and a sharp knife to prep the veggies, and a dutch oven (or large soup pot) to cook the stew.

How to Make Vegan Pumpkin Stew

This fall stew is super easy to prepare! You'll find a detailed recipe card below, but here's a quick overview of the steps:

1. Sauté veggies. You'll start by sautéing the onions, celery, and carrots.
2. Cook pumpkin. Next, you'll add the pumpkin, then cook the vegetable mixture until it starts to brown.
3. Mix in spices and tomato paste. Stir in the tomato paste, garlic, and spices. Cook just until everything's coated in tomato paste, and the spices are fragrant.
4. Add remaining ingredients. Mix in the butter beans, kale, and broth.
5. Cook. Simmer the stew until the vegetables are tender.

And that's all there is to it, time to enjoy your mouthwatering Pumpkin Stew!

Variations

You can easily customize this recipe with a few simple swaps:

• Pumpkin - Replace the pumpkin with a different winter squash, such as butternut or kabocha.
• Beans - Substitute other white beans (like cannellini or navy) for the butter beans. Chickpeas would also work great.
• Spices - Play around with the herbs and spices. A mixed of dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves would be delish, or you could use garam masala for a tasty curry flavor.
• Veggies - Add other vegetables, like mushrooms, cabbage, bell peppers, potatoes, or cauliflower. This recipe is a great way to clean out your fridge!

Serving Suggestions

This comforting Pumpkin Bean Stew makes a wonderful one dish dinner for fall or Halloween! Have a little more time on your hands? Pair it with slices of crusty bread, this tasty Beer Bread, or my fave Garlic Bread. You could also serve it with a salad, such as this Simple Green Salad, autumnal Kale and Apple Salad, or this delish Fall Harvest Salad. For a heartier meal, pair this vegetarian stew with an easy sandwich, like this cheesy Broccoli Rabe Sandwich, simple Apple and Brie Baguette, or this yummy Sourdough Grilled Cheese.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in your refrigerator where they'll stay fresh for up to four days. Rewarm gently in your microwave (or over medium in a saucepan) before eating.

Related Recipes

If you enjoyed this recipe, try my other meatless stew recipes next:

• This delectable Veggie Stew with Dumplings has been a favorite of Hello Little Home readers for years!
• Three words perfectly describe this classic Vegetable Stew: warming, hearty, and delicious. It makes the perfect lunch or dinner on a cold fall or winter day.
• For a unique twist on the classic, try this Vegetarian Irish Stew! It's loaded with veggies and has a secret ingredient which makes it extra tasty.

Looking for more savory pumpkin recipes? I've got lots! Try my colorful Pumpkin Quinoa Salad, mouthwatering Pumpkin Lentil Coconut Curry, and reader fave Pumpkin Pizza for starters!

Print

Pumpkin Stew

If you're a pumpkin fan, you won't be able to resist this delicious fall stew! It's loaded with fresh veggies and hearty beans, and so easy to make!

Course Soup

Cuisine American

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 40 minutes minutes

Total Time 55 minutes minutes

Servings 6 servings

Calories 225kcal

Author Ginnie Leeming

Equipment

• Dutch Over (or Large Soup Pot)

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped (about 2 cups)
• 2 medium carrots, sliced ¼-inch thick (about 1 cup)
• 2 stalks celery, sliced (about ¾ cup)
• 1 pie pumpkin, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes (about 7 cups)
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ to ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 (16 ounce / 454 gram) cans butter beans, drained and rinsed (or other white beans)
• 8 cups chopped kale (about 1 bunch)
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• kosher salt
• pepper

Instructions

• Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a dutch oven (or large soup pot) over medium heat.
• Add 1 chopped onion, 2 sliced carrots, and 2 stalks sliced celery. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté until onion starts to turn translucent, stirring occasionally (about 5 to 7 minutes).
• Mix in 7 cups chopped pumpkin, then cook until pumpkin and veggies start to brown, stirring occasionally (about 7 to 10 minutes).
• Add 3 tablespoons tomato paste, 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and ¼ to ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes. Stirring constantly, cook until mixture smells fragrant and tomato paste coats veggies (about 1 to 2 minutes).
• Stir in 2 cans butter beans (drained and rinsed), 8 cups chopped kale, and 6 cups vegetable broth.
• Cover and bring stew to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Uncover pot and cook until vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally (about 15 to 20 minutes). Season to taste with additional salt and pepper.
• Serve stew hot. Enjoy!

Notes

Servings - This recipe makes about 12 cups, which is equal to 6 large servings (2 cups each) or up to 12 smaller (1 cup) servings.

Pumpkin - Sugar / pie pumpkins work best for this recipe. For reference, my pumpkin weighed 3 pounds 2 ½ ounces (1433 grams). I used a vegetable peeler to peel the pumpkin before cutting it in half and removing the seeds. Save the seeds to roast later!

Broth - I like making my own broth from bouillon (Better Than Bouillon is my favorite). That way, I always have some on hand when I need it!

More - Check out the info before this recipe card for helpful tips, recipe variations, serving suggestions, and more!

Nutrition

Calories: 225kcal

The post Pumpkin Stew appeared first on Hello Little Home.

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ginnie's Take

I love making homemade tacos, and in my opinion, the thing that sets good tacos apart from great tacos is the toppings! Whether it's street tacos with their simple onion, cilantro, and lime topping, or veggie tacos drizzled with Avocado Crema, tasty toppings make all the difference. And my go-to Taco Slaw with its simple lime dressing (without mayo) is an all-time favorite! This vibrant coleslaw has a zesty flavor and the perfect amount of crunch. I've used green and purple cabbage (plus carrots) here, but you can keep things simple and traditional by using just green cabbage. You won't be able to resist it either way!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Delicious - This colorful recipe has a bright, tangy flavor and a fresh, crunchy texture that's guaranteed to make any taco tastier!
• Super Easy - Just slice the veggies, top with the lime dressing ingredients, and mix. So simple.
• Versatile - This yummy slaw is the perfect taco topping! The recipe is naturally vegan, making it a great addition to veggie tacos. Not vegetarian? Pair it with chicken or fish tacos (and more). It's also delish in taco bowls or served as a side dish. You'll find lots ideas for using it below!

Ingredients

This Mexican Coleslaw for Tacos is made with basic, easy to find ingredients! Here's what you'll need:

• Cabbage - I used two kinds of cabbage for this recipe: red cabbage (often called purple cabbage) and green cabbage. It's fine to use just one kind though (green cabbage is more traditional). You can even use store bought coleslaw mix to save time. One thing to note: if you use red cabbage, it will slowly turn the slaw a little pink.
• Carrots - Shredded carrots add a pop of color, and their sweetness is a tasty counterpart to the earthier cabbage and the zesty lime flavors.
• Lime Dressing - This recipe has no mayo. Instead, it's dressed with a simple vinaigrette made with lime juice, olive oil, and salt. The lime and salt are actually important ingredients. They help tenderize the cabbage, and the lime gives the slaw its trademark bright, tangy flavor.

This recipe is naturally vegetarian, vegan, dairy free, gluten free, and nut free, which means everyone at your table can enjoy it!

How to Make Taco Slaw (No Mayo)

This Mexican Cabbage Slaw couldn't be easier to make! You'll find a recipe card below with measurements, but here's a quick overview:

1. Prep veggies. Start by thinly slicing the cabbage and shredding the carrot.
2. Mix veggies. Add the vegetables to a bowl, then stir together.
3. Add dressing ingredients. Top the veggies with the lime juice, olive oil, and salt, then mix well. Season to taste with additional salt and lime juice.

Okay, time to enjoy your homemade Taco Slaw! You are going to love it paired with all your fave tacos.

Variations

This crunchy taco topping is fun and easy to customize! Here are a few ideas to try:

• Simple Version - For a simplified version, use either purple or green cabbage and skip the carrots. You can also buy a packaged coleslaw mix (just make sure it's very fresh). Dress the slaw with fresh lime juice and salt (skipping the olive oil).
• Cilantro - My favorite addition! It pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
• Fruits + Veggies - Add extra flavor by mixing in fresh pineapple or mango, jicama, radishes, green onions, bell peppers, fresh garlic, and more. This recipe is a great way to clean out your fridge!
• Spices - Mix in warm, flavorful spices, like cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, or smoked paprika.
• Hot Peppers - Jalapeños are a classic addition! You can also experiment with other peppers, such as serranos or habaneros. Just make sure your dinner guests can take the heat, and keep in mind that a little goes a long way (especially if the tacos will have other spicy ingredients).
• Creamy - For a creamy version, stir in a couple tables of mayonnaise, sour cream, or Mexican crema.

Serving Suggestions

There are so many ways to use this yummy topping:

• Tacos - I used this tasty slaw on my Butternut Squash Tacos and my Tofu Tacos, but try it on my Crunchy Black Bean Tacos, Portobello Tacos, and my Egg and Black Bean Breakfast Tacos, too.
• Taco Bowl - Build a delicious taco bowl, starting with a rice or grain base, followed by this slaw and add your fave taco toppings.
• Taquitos - Make flautas ahogadas by topping Taquitos with salsa, followed by the cabbage salad.
• Tostadas - Serve over Bean Tostadas or Breakfast Tostadas for a flavorful finishing touch.
• Sandwiches + Wraps - It makes a wonderfully crunchy addition to wraps (like this easy Black Bean Wrap), sandwiches, and tortas.
• Side Dish - Pair with any meal where you'd typically serve coleslaw! I especially love it served with Tex Mex dishes, like Taco Casserole and Mexican Lasagna, burgers, and grilled foods.

Storage

This slaw is best when eaten shortly after being made, as the cabbage get softer the longer it sits. However if you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in your refrigerator, then eat within a day or two.

Related Recipes

Looking for more taco topping ideas? Try one of these recipes next:

• This Avocado Cream Sauce is so delicious and easy to make. I love it paired with any Mexican dish that needs something saucy.
• My favorite Guacamole is in regular rotation around here, and you're sure to love it! Try my Guac without Tomatoes for a simpler version, too.
• Craving a creative salsa? Try my colorful Pink Pineapple Salsa or this irresistible Watermelon Salsa!
• This flavorful Black Bean and Corn Salsa is a crowd pleasing dip, and you can use leftovers for a quick taco or burrito filling.

P.S. If you're a coleslaw lover, make sure to try my Greek Coleslaw recipe, too!

Print

Mexican Taco Slaw

Learn how to make a quick, easy, and delicious coleslaw topping for tacos!

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Mexican

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 15 minutes minutes

Servings 6 servings

Calories 29kcal

Author Ginnie Leeming

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups thinly sliced green cabbage (about ¼ small head)
• 1 ½ cups thinly sliced red cabbage (about ¼ small head)
• 1 medium carrot, shredded
• 1 large lime, juiced
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• kosher salt

Instructions

• Combine 1 ½ cups sliced green cabbage, 1 ½ cups sliced red cabbage, and 1 shredded carrot in a large bowl. Mix well.
• Add lime juice from 1 lime, 2 teaspoons olive oil, and kosher salt (to taste). Stir well, then season with additional lime juice and salt, if desired. (I used ½ teaspoon kosher salt total.)
• Let rest for about 5 to 10 minutes, then serve over tacos. Enjoy!

Notes

Yield - This recipe makes about 3 cups, or 6 servings (½ cup each).

Quick Version - Substitute 3 ½ cups packaged coleslaw mix for the shredded cabagge and carrots.

Limes - When purchasing limes, give them a little squeeze. They should have some give. And I always recommend buying extra limes, because it's hard to tell how juicy they will be. 

More - Check out the info before this recipe for helpful tips, recipes variations, serving suggestions, and more!

Nutrition

Calories: 29kcal

The post Taco Slaw appeared first on Hello Little Home.

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ginnie's Take

Tacos are a frequent dinner at my place. I love experimenting with different flavors, and now that fall is here, my favorite Butternut Squash Tacos have entered the rotation! These colorful tacos have the best combination of flavors and textures: perfectly seasoned squash and black beans, a luscious avocado cream sauce, and a zesty, crunchy slaw topping. With its tasty Mexican flavors, this recipe is perfect for winter squash fans and skeptics alike!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Delicious - These veggie tacos are bursting with vibrant flavors. You won't be able to resist the delicious combination of spiced squash, creamy sauce, and crunchy slaw. They're sooo good!
• Easy - Because the filling is roasted, there's no standing over a hot stove. Your oven does all the work! And while the squash bakes, you'll make the quick sauce and slaw toppings.
• Versatile - Serve these tasty tacos for a weeknight dinner, or invite your friends over for a weekend taco party! You'll find helpful make ahead tips that make throwing the recipe together a snap, and it's easy to customize, too.

Ingredients

These Roasted Squash Tacos are made with easy to find ingredients! Here's what you'll need:

• Squash - You'll need a butternut squash, of course.
• Beans - As well as a can of black beans.
• Spices - The squash is tossed with a fragrant (not spicy) mix of ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and garlic powder (plus olive oil) before roasting.
• Toppings - The tacos have three simple toppings: Avocado Crema (made with avocado, sour cream, and lime juice), Taco Slaw (made with cabbage, carrots, lime juice, and olive oil), and lime wedges for squeezing over the tacos.
• Tortillas - You'll serve the tacos on corn tortillas.

This recipe is naturally vegetarian, nut free, and gluten free (read labels carefully if you have an allergy). To make it vegan and dairy free, simply use plant based sour cream when preparing the crema.

You'll Also Need

You'll need a sharp, sturdy knife to prep the butternut squash and other veggies, a fine mesh strainer (or colander) to drain and rinse the black beans, a few bowls, and a large baking sheet to roast the squash and beans.

How to Make Roasted Butternut Squash Tacos

These Butternut Tacos have a few components, but each one is easy to make! You'll find a detailed recipe card below, but here's a quick overview of the process:

1. Roast squash. Start by tossing the chopped butternut with the spices and olive oil. Then bake until tender.
2. Add beans. Top the squash with the black beans, then bake until the beans are hot. Add a squeeze of lime juice, then mix well.
3. Make slaw + crema. While the filling cooks, mix the cabbage, carrots, lime juice, olive oil, and salt to make the slaw. Set that aside, then blend the avocado, sour cream, and lime juice in your food processor to make the crema.
4. Assemble tacos. Heat the tortillas, then top with the squash-bean filling, followed by the crema and slaw. Serve with lime wedges.

Don't those Butternut Squash Tacos look delicious? I predict that you're going to love each and every bite!

Variations

These yummy Roasted Squash Tacos are fun to customize! Try one of these easy ideas:

• Squash - Substitute another type of squash. Kabocha, pumpkin, or even sliced delicata squash would also be delish.
• Sweet Potatoes - Swap in sweet potatoes for the butternut squash.
• Beans - Replace the black beans with pinto beans.
• Slaw - Save time by using a package of coleslaw mix for the slaw.
• Spices - Use a spice blend, such as taco seasoning or even adobo seasoning, instead of the individual spices.
• Salsa - Top the tacos with your fave salsa, instead of the crema. This Pineapple Salsa would work great! I used a pink pineapple to make it, but a regular pineapple works well, too.
• Spicy - Add some hot sauce for a little kick. This habanero sauce is my fave!
• Vegan + Dairy Free - Use plant based sour cream when making the avocado crema.

Serving Suggestions

These veggie-packed Butternut Squash and Black Bean Tacos make a great one dish meal. You can also serve them with simple sides (like refried beans and Mexican rice) or an easy salad (this Kale, Apple, and Pumpkin Seed Salad is a fave). For a party, add some snacks (like Guacamole and chips or Texas Nachos). And don't forget a delicious drink (try my Watermelon Agua Fresca or Mexican Hot Chocolate) to wash it down!

Storage

If you have leftovers, store the bean and squash filling, crema, and slaw in separate containers in your refrigerator. The slaw is best when eaten within a day or two, but the filling and crema will both stay fresh for three to four days. Warm the filling gently in your microwave before serving.

Related Recipes

Looking for more veggie taco ideas? Try one of these delicious recipes next:

• These Crispy Black Bean Tacos are super quick and so tasty!
• Fire up the grill to make these yummy Grilled Portobello Tacos.
• Wake up to these easy Black Bean and Egg Tacos!
• These Tofu Tacos couldn't be easier to make, and they also have a slaw topping!
• Craving something a little different? You'll love these mouthwatering Korean Tofu Tacos.
• Crispy Black Bean Taquitos are a fun rolled twist on the classic recipe.
• This Vegetarian Taco Casserole is the perfect treat when you're craving comfort food!

Print

Butternut Squash Tacos with Black Beans

These yummy veggie tacos are easy to make and so delicious! Perfect for dinner any night of the week.

Course Main Course

Cuisine Mexican

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 35 minutes minutes

Total Time 55 minutes minutes

Servings 12 tacos

Calories 175kcal

Author Ginnie Leeming

Equipment

• Large Baking Sheet
• Fine Mesh Strainer
• Food Processor
• Large Frying Pan (or Microwave)

Ingredients

For Butternut Squash and Black Beans:

• 4 cups chopped butternut squash (½-inch cubes)
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• kosher salt
• 1 (15 ounce / 425 gram) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 large lime

For Taco Slaw:

• 3 cups thinly sliced cabbage (about ½ small head; I used a mix of green and red cabbage)
• 1 medium carrot, shredded
• 1 large lime, juiced
• 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil

For Avocado Crema:

• 1 large avocado, cut into chunks
• ⅓ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

For Assembling:

• 12 corn tortillas

Instructions

Prepare Butternut Squash and Black Beans:

• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Place 4 cups chopped butternut squash on a large baking sheet. Top with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon garlic powder. Sprinkle generously with salt, then mix well with clean hands or a spatula.
• Spread squash into a single layer, then roast for 20 minutes. Flip, then bake for 10 more minutes (or until squash is browned and tender).
• Sprinkle black beans (1-15 ounce can, drained and rinsed) over roasted squash. Bake for 5 more minutes (or until beans are hot).
• Cut 1 lime in half. Squeeze 1 half over the squash and beans. Mix well, then taste and season with additional salt, if needed. (Cut other lime half into small wedges, then reserve for serving.)

Prepare Taco Slaw:

• While squash roasts, combine 3 cups sliced cabbage and 1 shredded carrot in a medium bowl. Mix well.
• Stir in juice from 1 lime, 2 teaspoons olive oil, and salt to taste. Taste, then season with additional lime juice or salt, if needed. (I used ½ teaspon salt total.) Set aside.

Prepare Avocado Crema:

• After making slaw, combine 1 avocado, ⅓ cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons lime juice, and ½ teaspoon salt in food processor. Blend until totally smooth, then season to taste with additional salt (if needed). Set aside.

Assemble Tacos:

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add tortillas in a single layer (you will need to do this in batches). Cook tortillas until just softened and hot, flipping once.
• Divide butternut squash filling evenly between tortillas, then top with avocado crema, followed by the taco slaw. (You may have a little slaw or crema leftover.)
• Serve tacos immediately with reserved lime wedges. Enjoy!

Notes

Servings - This recipe makes 12 tacos, which will serve 4 to 6 people (2 to 3 tacos each).

Squash - For reference, my butternut squash weighed 1 pound 14.7 ounces (870 grams). You can use other types of squash too, or even sweet potatoes.

Slaw - Feel free to substitute 3 ½ cups packaged coleslaw mix for the cabbage and carrots.

Tortillas - Heating tortillas makes them flexible and helps them hold together when eating. I usually heat tortillas in a skillet, then add the toppings as soon as they come off the pan (this way, they stay warm). You can also heat them on a comal (a more traditional method), over a gas burner (be very careful), or in a microwave. If microwaving, wrap all 12 tortillas with a damp paper towel, followed by a dry paper towel (or kitchen towel). Then heat for 30 to 45 seconds, or until hot.

Make Ahead - Save time by chopping the squash, slicing the cabbage, and shredding the carrot in advance. You can also prepare the avocado crema ahead of time. Then when dinner rolls around, cook the squash-bean filling as directed and prepare the slaw.

More - Check out the info before this post for helpful tips, recipe variations, serving suggestions, and more!

Nutrition

Calories: 175kcal

The post Butternut Squash Tacos appeared first on Hello Little Home.

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

The State Fair of Texas is one of my favorite discoveries since moving to Dallas. Before we even moved, I kept hearing how amazing the fair was. I was skeptical though, because I’ve never been a big fair person.

But you know what? The Texas State Fair lives up to the hype! And these days, I go at least once a year. It's always so fun!

If you’re a Texan, it’s practically impossible to escape the excitement surrounding the Texas State Fair. And with so much to do and see, what are you waiting for? Start planning your visit today with this comprehensive guide!

2026 Visitors Guide: Everything You Need to Plan Your Visit

The State Fair of Texas is a bucket list destination for any Texan. It’s kind of a big deal here!

Texas’ fair has been around since 1886, and it’s held at the historic Fair Park in Dallas. Most years, the fair starts on the last Friday in September, and it ends 24 days later.

If you’ve heard of this fair, you’re probably aware that it’s known for its fried foods. Deep fried butter or beer, anyone? There is so much to do and see at the fair beyond its food, although I’d definitely recommend trying some of those tempting fried treats!

This guide covers all the best things to do at the State Fair of Texas, plus all the logistical info you need to plan a visit.

Best Things to Do at the Texas State Fair

So what exactly is there to do at the fair? A lot! The State Fair is packed with awesome things to do, adorable barnyard animals, fun events, music concerts, and so much more. Here’s everything you’ll want to see and do at the fair:

1. Watch the Daily Parade

Don't miss the fair's nightly Starlight Parade! The parade features an array of breathtaking floats designed by Kern Studios of New Orleans (a Mardi Gras powerhouse), as well as life-size puppets, animated characters in ornate costumes, and more. Watch the festivities every night at 7:15 PM at Fair Park.

Tip: The parade used to have an opening day parade that ran through downtown Dallas (see photos below). In recent years, the fair's parade has evolved, and it now takes place daily on the fairgrounds.

2. Say Hi to Big Tex

Want to know the first thing I do at the fair every year? I head straight to Big Tex for a photo, and a Fletcher’s corny dog, of course. Ha!

Big Tex debuted at the fair in 1952, and he’s been a fixture ever since. The original Big Tex was destroyed in a fire on the last Friday of the 2012 State Fair. He returned the next year with a makeover, taller and bigger with a 95-gallon hat and size-96 Lucchese boots. There’s also a neon Big Tex on the Fair Grounds. He stands 38 feet tall, and he used to live at a local liquor store until he was purchased a couple years ago.

To be honest, as much as I love Big Tex, he’s kind of creepy! And just when you start to get used to his angular face, he starts talking!

3. Visit the Midway

It wouldn’t be a fair without a midway, and the one at the Texas State Fair is huge! The midway is especially popular with kids, but adults will love it, too. My favorite time to visit is at night when everything is lit up.

For a panoramic view of the midway, take a ride on the Texas Skyway. You can enter it from either end of the midway.

4. Ride the Ferris Wheel

You can’t visit the fair without taking a ride on the giant ferris wheel, also known as the Texas Star. The iconic ferris wheel is the most popular ride at the fair. It looms over the midway, and you can see it from various spots throughout the park, too.

The Texas Star debuted at the park in 1985, is 216 feet tall, and can carry up to 264 passengers in its 44 gondola baskets. Take a ride for amazing views of Fair Park and the Dallas skyline!

5. Get Inspired by the Creative Arts

Each year, hundreds of Texans pour their heart into creating unique arts, crafts, culinary creations, and performing arts. Visit the Creative Arts Building to see their award-winning entries, plus check out cooking demonstrations, butter carving, and more.

6. Listen to Live Music

Listening to live music is one of the best things to do at the Texas State Fair. You’ll find the biggest acts on the Main Stage, but there are stages scattered throughout the park.

Check out the lineup before your visit, then plan your trip around your favorite bands.

Over the years, we’ve seen Kacey Musgraves, Flo Rida, La Mafia, Wilson Phillips, and more on the Main Stage. Everyone we’ve seen has been awesome, and it’s the perfect way to end a day at the fair!

7. Catch a Live Show

Beyond live music, the fair has many other shows, too. Head to the children’s area for family-friendly entertainment or catch the Lone Star Stampede (a horse show). You’ll find these events scattered throughout the park. Make sure to check the schedule before you go.   

8. Explore Historic Fair Park

One of the things I love most about the Texas State Fair is its gorgeous setting! The Texas State Fair is held at Fair Park, a Dallas / National Historic Landmark.

Many of the buildings were constructed for the 1936 Texas Centennial Exposition, an event that transformed the site from 20th century fairgrounds into an Art Deco showcase. As you wander the fairgrounds, you’ll see these distinctive buildings scattered throughout the park.

The view by the reflecting pool near the park’s entrance is especially beautiful with Art Deco buildings surrounding the pool on either side. This is a great place to get a souvenir picture!

9. Fill Up on All Things Fried

Of course, no visit the fair is complete without indulging in some delicious treats. The variety of fried food is kind of staggering, but you’ll find healthier indulgences, too. Let’s just say you won’t go hungry!

Check out the food and drink section below for more info on all your options, plus tips on where to find the best deals.

10. Check Out the Animals

You can’t leave the fair without checking out the livestock in the barns or attending one of the educational shows. You’ll find all sorts of animals in the barns, from chickens to cows to pigs. There’s even a livestock birthing bar where you can learn about the circle of life!

11. Visit the Family Area

If you’re visiting the fair with kids, walk around the lake or follow the bridge by the swan boats over the lake. Once there, you’ll find a special Children’s Area which is packed with kid-friendly activities like shows, crafts, a petting zoo, pee wee rodeo, and so much more here!

It’s also a little quieter in this area. Whether you have kids or not, grab a spot by the lake if you need to escape the crowds for a bit.

12. Ride a Swan Boat

After you’ve checked out Big Tex, eaten your weight in fried foods, and ridden a ride (or ten), stop by the lake. This is where you’ll find the classic swan boats. Don’t they look fun? Line up to take a ride or simply enjoy the view from a shady bench on the water’s edge.

13. Watch a Game in the Historic Cotton Bowl

Historic Cotton Bowl stadium hosts a number of college football games during the fair. If you’re a sports fan, then you need to attend at least one!

• State Fair Classic - Prairie View A&M University and Grambling State University have been competing in this game since the 1980s.
• Red River Showdown – The University of Texas and the University of Oklahoma have been going head to head in the Cotton Bowl since 1929!
• State Fair Showdown - Southern University and Texas Southern University are face off in a game that also features a Battle of the Bands, The Stompdown Experience step show, and a College Fair.

Get ticket through each university’s athletic department, and keep in mind these games are very popular (especially the Red River Showdown). Don’t wait to get tickets!

14. Visit the Fair’s Museums

Did you know that Fair Park is open year-round, and that it’s home to a number of museums? You can visit these museums during the fair when they often have special exhibitions.

Past year's exhibitions have included Casa de Chocolate, A Sweet Indulgent Affair, presented by Mundo Latino at the Women’s Museum and the Kinsey African American Art & History Collection at the African American Museum.

15. Check Out the Texas Auto Show

Love cars? Then head to the huge Texas Auto Show!

You’ll find over 400 of the latest models at this annual car show, making it a must for car fanatics. And even if you’re not an auto buff, the expansive show is a great place to escape the Texas heat.

16. Do a Little Shopping

Want to take home a souvenir? With 18 shopping areas located around the park, you’ll find plenty of opportunities! Look for everything from Big Tex water bottles to jewelry, food, and so much more.

17. Watch the Nightly Light Show

Don’t leave the fair without catching the nightly light show! Illumination Sensation lights up the reflecting pool each evening at 8:00 PM. It’s a fun, festive sight, and the beautiful buildings and statues surrounding the reflecting pool glow with colorful lights, too. It’s the perfect way to end a day at the fair!

State Fair Food (What to Eat + Drink)

Now that you know all the best things to do at the Texas Fair, let’s talk about the good stuff! No visit to the fair is complete without sampling plenty of delicious food.

Texas State Fair food is known for being fried and a little over-the-top. You’ll find everything from Fried Bananas Foster to Fried Cuban Sandwiches. If you can fry it, you can bet someone’s tried making it for the fair!

Big Tex Choice Awards

Each year, food vendors compete in the Big Tex Choice Awards and invent some truly creative (crazy?) foods, like Fried Beer. And the best part is that you can taste these foods during your visit.

The 2026 Big Tex Choice Award Winners were:

• Savory – Burger Chop Tater Tacos
• Sweet – Fletcher's Chocolate Corny Dog
• Sipper – Tropical Coco Fresca
• Most Creative – Berry Me in Matcha

Are you hungry yet? You can check out all of this year's finalists and winners here!

Best Places to Eat and Drink at the Fair

With all this amazing food available, are you wondering where to start? Here are my top picks for the best food:

• Corny Dogs - Our first stop at the fair is usually a classic corny dog from Fletcher’s. You can buy these yummy corn dogs throughout the park, but we always head to the stand near Big Tex. It makes a great pic! There’s even a vegetarian corny dog and a cheese dog, so don’t feel left out if you don’t eat meat.
• Food Court - You’ll find food stands throughout the fair, but for many options in one place, head to the indoor food court in the Tower Building. You’ll find a little bit of everything here, and it’s a great place to sit down and cool off for a while. On your way into the food court, check out the Big Tex Choice Award winners, and be sure to review all the food winners and finalists before your trip, so you can plan out what you want to eat. On our last visit, we couldn’t resist getting the Texas-shaped nachos. This is the small size!

• Food Stands and Restaurants – Beyond the food court, there are tons of stands and restaurants scattered throughout the parks, serving everything from classic treats like cotton candy to BBQ, Mexican food, pizza, and so much more. Lines can be huge on weekends, so plan your attack carefully! 
• Thrifty Thursdays – Of course, money spent all these treats can add up fast. To save a few bucks, hit the fair on Thrifty Thursdays for special prices on corny dogs, cotton candy, funnel cakes, and more, plus mini versions of many vendor’s signature menu items.
• Cheap Water - Looking for ice cold water? Keep an eye out for stands selling water for two tickets. There’s one near the Main Stage and one near the neon Big Tex. You’ll find others sprinkled throughout the fair, too. Want to splurge? The fresh-squeezed lemonade (found throughout the park) is delish!

• State Fair Wine Garden – Vino lovers, make sure to visit the Wine Garden for a glass or two. You’ll love the whimsical atmosphere with colorful umbrellas hanging overhead, and the Texas wines aren’t too shabby either! You can also buy beer, and there’s usually live music, so stop by even if you’re not a wine fan.
• Best Beer – The Magnolia Beer Garden is my favorite spot to sit and enjoy a few beers during the fair. You’ll find a range of craft beers and ciders here, and there’s food available, too. The colorful fall decorations create a charming atmosphere, and it’s even a little romantic once the sparkling lights start to glow.

• Cheapest Beer - For the cheapest beers, head to The Beer Barn (located by the Cotton Bowl, near the Midway entrance) or the Ice House (on the Midway near the Fast Trax Slide). Beers here are only 6 tickets ($3) vs. the 12 to 14 tickets ($6 to $7) you’ll pay at Magnolia Beer Garden. The selection is a little more basic, but they have Shiner, which makes this Texan happy. And hey, you can always bring your cheap beer back to the Magnolia Beer Garden to soak up the pleasant atmosphere!
• Bring Your Own Food – Tasting all these unique treats is what makes State Fair visit fun, but it can definitely get spendy. Save a little money by bringing a cooler with your own food and drinks. No alcoholic beverages, glass containers, or metal forks / knives are allowed.

Dates + Hours

The fair is open daily, starting on the last Friday in September. It ends 24 days later and is open Sunday through Thursday from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and Friday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

In 2026, the Texas State Fair will run from Friday, September 25 to Sunday, October 18. 

Tickets (Admission Fees + Coupons)

Purchase entrance tickets online, or when you arrive at the fair. They’re sold individually and in packages. General admission prices vary by day of the week and are is $15.00 to $25.00 for adults (depending on the day), $10.00 to $18.00 for children (ages 3 to 12), and $5.00 to $18.00 for seniors (age 60+). After 5:00 PM, everyone pays the child price!

Texas State Fair Discounts

Tickets purchased online are $1.50 less than those purchased at the gate, plus you can skip the ticket line. Want to spend even less? Throughout the fair, you can save money on certain days like Military Appreciation Day or Half-Price Tuesdays and during other promo events. Find all the money-saving details here. 

State Fair Coupons

Once you enter the fair, you’ll need to purchase coupons. One dollar will get you two tickets. The coupons can be used for food, drinks, and ride admissions. You basically can’t do anything without them! If you have leftover coupons, save them, because you can use them next year.

If you want to play games, you’ll also need to purchase a Big Tex Game Card. Look for booths and kiosks near the games to make a purchase.

Getting to the State Fair

The Texas State Fair is held in Dallas’ historic Fair Park. It has multiple entrances, but the main entrance is located at Exposition Avenue and Parry Avenue. You can get there by public transportation, Rideshare (Uber / Lyft), or driving.

Driving to the Fair

Find directions for driving to the fair here, including a map with parking locations.

Public Transportation to the Fair

I know it goes against most Texan’s nature, but taking public transportation is the best, most hassle-free way to get to the fair. There’s no dealing parking fees and traffic jams, for one thing. Take any DART Rail Line to downtown Dallas, then transfer to a DART Green Line Train (heading toward Buckner Station). The train will drop you off right in front of the main entrance.

Coming from further away? Take the Trinity Railway Express to downtown Dallas where you can connect to a DART Green Line Train. You can also take the Denton A-train from one of five stations, then transfer to the DART Green Line at Trinity Mills.

Taking Uber / Lyft to the Fair

Save yourself a little stress by using a rideshare when traveling to the fair. You can be dropped off / picked up at any gate, however fair officials recommend using the Gurley Gate (use address: 4206 Gurley Ave Dallas, TX 75223) for less traffic congestion.

Where to Stay: Dallas Hotels

If you’re visiting the fair from out of town, downtown Dallas is the most convenient place to stay during your trip. It’s near the fair (and tons of other fun things to do in Dallas), and you can take the DART Green Line Train directly to the fair.

There are quite a few hotels downtown, but the Sheraton, Hilton Garden Inn, Crowne Plaza, and Homewood Suites are all located steps from the DART Green Line. If you want to treat yourself, The Joule and The Adolphus are wonderful options that are also close to public transportation. And of course, all these hotels have parking if you’d prefer to drive.

Check TripAdvisor for prices and helpful reviews of all these downtown Dallas hotels (and others). There’s an option for every budget from thrifty to upscale!

FAQs about the State Fair

Okay, we've covered a lot, and I think you deserve some fried butter if you've made it this far! Here are some frequently asked questions about the fair, but let me know if you have any others.

For More Information

To learn more about the fair, make sure to visit the official fair website. You’ll find daily schedules, event info, tickets, maps, and more.

More Things to Do in Texas

Now that you've got the fair on your bucket list, check out these other fun things to do in Texas!

• No matter your interests, these 46 Things to Do in Dallas, Texas will keep you busy for a long time.
• This Downtown Dallas Walking Tour is the perfect way to get the lay of the land!
• Discover a Secret Teddy Bear Park in Dallas.
• Explore the great outdoors wit my Texas National Parks Guide!
• Heading west? Here are 20 Fun Things to Do in Amarillo.
• Hit the road with this El Paso to Phoenix Road Trip guide.
• Visit tiny Happy, Texas Guide! If you like offbeat destinations this West Texas town is worth a stop.

The post Texas State Fair (Best Things to Do, See + Eat!) appeared first on Hello Little Home.

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ginnie's Take

As we head into fall baking season and the holidays, I thought I'd share one of my fave back-pocket baking recipes with you: this easy Powdered Sugar Glaze. This tasty icing truly couldn't be easier (or faster) to make. You'll love the sweet vanilla flavor, and it's the perfect finishing touch for all your sweet treats. I've been making this recipe for years (decades? lol), and I love drizzling it over quick breads, cookies, scones, etc. Basically, any baked good that needs a little something extra!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Delicious - This tasty glaze has a classic sweet vanilla flavor that's impossible to resist.
• Quick + Easy - The recipe is fast and foolproof! Simply mix the ingredients together, and it's ready to use.
• Versatile - Drizzle this Sugar Glaze over anything and everything! You can easily customize the recipe by adding different extracts, juices, spices, and other flavorings, too. It's so versatile, and you'll find lots of ideas for using it (and customizing it) below.

Ingredients

This homemade Glaze is made with basic ingredients you can find in any store! Here's what you'll need:

• Sugar - You'll need some Powdered sugar (also known as confectioners sugar or icing sugar), of course.
• Milk - Use 2% milk or whole milk for the best results. Nondairy milks can also be used, and I think that unsweetened soy milk, which has a creamy texture and neutral flavor, works best.
• Vanilla - A touch of vanilla extract gives the glaze a lovely, rich flavor.

This recipe is naturally vegetarian, gluten free, and nut free. For a vegan and dairy free glaze, use plant based milk and (for vegan diets) organic powdered sugar, or sugar that is specifically marked vegan.

How to Make Powdered Sugar Icing

This Confectioners Sugar Glaze is so easy to make! You'll find a recipe card with measurements below, but the process is simple. Add the ingredients to a bowl, then mix until smooth. And voilà, it's ready to use!

Adjusting the Thickness: You can make this Powdered Sugar and Milk Glaze thicker or thinner, depending on how you want to use it. To make it thicker, simply add more powdered sugar (a little bit at a time). To make it thinner, add more liquid (drop by drop, a little goes a long way).

Variations

The best thing about this basic Glaze recipe? You can customize it a million different ways! Try one of these easy ideas:

• Liquids - Swap out the milk for water, coffee, maple syrup, apple cider, honey, tea, liqueurs / spirits, or juices. This Maple Glaze is one of my favorites!
• Extracts - Replace the vanilla extract with other flavored extracts, such as almond, rum, coconut, maple, or peppermint.
• Spices - Stir in warm spices (like cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, or ginger). Spice blends (such as pumpkin spice) also work great.
• Other Flavorings - Add citrus zest, cocoa powder, or matcha powder.
• Vegan - Substitute plant based milk and organic powdered sugar. I prefer soy milk, which has a creamy texture and neutral flavor.
• Dairy Free - Use plant based milk.

How to Use

This homemade Glaze makes any dessert so much tastier! Here are a few ways you can use it:

• Donuts - Dunk homemade donuts in the glaze.
• Breads -Drizzle over cooled quick breads, like pumpkin bread, pound cake, and banana bread. I used this glaze on this scrumptious Cranberry Banana Bread and a flavored version on this cozy Apple Banana Bread!
• Cookies - Decorate cookies by spreading or drizzling the icing over them, or by dipping them in the glaze. I used this Vanilla Glaze for these Olympic Medal Cookies and these Stamped Cookies, and I used flavored versions for these Coffee Chocolate Chunk Cookies, Maple Pecan Shortbread, Cranberry Nut Cookies, and Lavender Lemon Cookies.
• Cakes - Spoon generously over cakes. It's so much faster than frosting!
• Cupcakes + Muffins - Add to muffins and cupcakes after baking. I used this icing on my popular Coffee Cake Muffins recipe!
• Scones - Drizzle over homemade scones.
• Other Baked Goods - Pair it with everything from cinnamon rolls to apple fritters.

Storage

If you have any leftover drizzle, store it in an airtight container in your refrigerator for four to five days. Let warm to room temperature, and adjust the thickness with more milk before using, if needed.

Related Recipes

If you enjoyed this recipe, make sure to try my Maple Syrup Glaze next! And you'll love these other icings and frostings, too:

• This mouthwatering Cream Cheese Frosting (without Butter) makes any dessert more delicious!
• Looking for a light, tangy frosting recipe? This Sour Cream Frosting recipe is a favorite.
• This simple Cookie Icing recipe makes decorating your fave cookies fun and easy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Print

Powdered Sugar Glaze

Learn how to make a delicious glaze with powdered sugar! It's so easy and perfect for icing all your favorite sweet treats!

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 14 servings

Calories 69kcal

Author Ginnie Leeming

Ingredients

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 to 4 tablespoons milk

Instructions

• Add 2 cups powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to a medium bowl, then stir in just enough milk (starting with 1 tablespoon) so the glaze is thin enough to drizzle.
• Use immediately or store in refrigerator. Enjoy!

Notes

Yield - This recipe makes about ¾ cup + 2 tablespoons, which is equal to 14 servings (1 tablespoon each).

Milk - I recommend using 2% or whole milk, or for a plant based option, unsweetened soy milk.

How to Make Thinner / Thicker -You can easily adjust the glaze's consistency. For thinner glaze, add more milk (a few drops at a time). For thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar bit by bit.

More - Check out the info before this recipe card for helpful tips, recipes + ideas for using the glaze, and more!

Nutrition

Calories: 69kcal

The post Powdered Sugar Glaze appeared first on Hello Little Home.

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ginnie's Take

Okay, calling all apple lovers: this recipe is for you! Now that fall is here, I'm excited to share some of my favorite apple treats, starting with this decadent Apple Banana Bread! This yummy loaf is perfectly moist, loaded with tender apples and crunchy nuts, and glazed with the tastiest maple drizzle. If you're anything like me, you'll find it impossible to stop at just one slice!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Mouthwatering Flavor - This recipe is a must make for apple aficionados! Each bite of this unique quick bread is packed with tender apple chunks and tasty nuts. The tasty maple glaze puts it totally over the top!
• Easy to Make - Just like your favorite banana bread, this recipe is simple to prepare. You'll be snacking on a slice before you know it.
• Favorite Fall Treat - This recipe is a fun, fall twist on your go-to quick bread. You won't be able to resist the warm, autumnal flavors!
• Customizable - Not a nut fan? Skip them. Prefer to keep things simple? Make the glaze next time. You can easily customize this recipe, and you'll find more tips below!

Ingredients

The ingredients for this Apple and Banana Loaf can be found at any grocery store! Here's what you'll need:

• Apples - For the best texture and flavor, I recommend using crisp, tart (or sweet-tart) apples for baking. I used Cosmic Crisp apples, but Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Pink Lady would also work great.
• Bananas - You will also need some bananas, of course! Make sure to buy your bananas ahead of time, then let them sit on your counter until they have lots of brown spots. This is a great recipe for using up overripe bananas!
• Nuts - Chopped walnuts add a tasty flavor and texture to the quick bread. If you're not a nut fan, you can leave them out.
• Vanilla + Cinnamon - The bread is flavored with vanilla extract and cinnamon, which gives it a warm, cozy taste.
• Other Baking Ingredients - You'll also need some standard baking ingredients, including all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, baking soda and baking powder, kosher salt, unsalted butter, and large eggs.
• Glaze - The loaf is topped with an easy Maple Glaze. The glaze is optional, but it makes the bread even more delicious, and it's so easy to make. You'll need powdered sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt for the glaze, plus some extra nuts to sprinkle over the top.

You'll Also Need

Grab a sharp knife to chop the apples (and a peeler if you'd like to peel them). You'll also need some measuring cups and spoons, a whisk for combining the dry ingredients, a stand mixer (or hand mixer), a spatula, and a loaf pan for baking the bread. This Circulon bread pan is my fave!

How to Make Banana Apple Bread

Banana Bread with Apples is easy to make, and bonus: your house will smell amazing as it bakes! You'll find a detailed recipe card below, but here's a quick overview of the steps:

1. Mix wet ingredients. Using your stand mixer, blend the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, then mix in the eggs and vanilla. Stir in the bananas by hand.
2. Combine dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
3. Blend wet + dry ingredients. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients with a spatula.
4. Stir in apples + nuts. When the dry and wet ingredients are about halfway combined, add the apples and nuts. Continue folding together with a spatula, stopping when just combined.
5. Bake. Spread the batter evenly in a buttered loaf pan, then bake.
6. Add toppings. Let the bread cool completely, then drizzle with glaze and sprinkle with nuts.

Okay, doesn't this Apple Banana Bread look absolutely mouthwatering? Just try to stop at one slice!

Variations

This cozy fall bread recipe is easy to customize! Here are a few ideas to try:

• Apples - Experiment with different apple varieties to find your favorite!
• Nuts - Replace the walnuts with pecans or pistachios, or leave out the nuts, if you prefer.
• Spices - Swap out the cinnamon for an apple pie or pumpkin spice blend.
• Glaze - Skip the glaze to simplify the recipe. You could also do a simple powder sugar glaze, and replace the maple syrup with milk (you'll need less).

Serving Suggestions

This homemade Banana and Apple Bread makes a wonderful snack, dessert, or breakfast, and I love serving it for fall brunches, too. For an extra cozy treat, pair it with a cup of coffee, Mulled Cider, or Hot Cocoa!

Storage

Store leftover Banana Apple Loaf in an airtight container, such as a zip top bag. It can be stored at room temperature for a couple days, though refrigerating the bread with help it last longer (up to a week). You can also freeze the bread for a couple months to enjoy later.

Related Recipes

If you enjoyed this recipe, try my mouthwatering Cranberry Banana Bread next! And you'll love these other banana bread ideas, too:

• This Double Chocolate Banana Bread is a chocolate lovers dream!
• More chocolate, you say? You won't be able to resist this Chocolate Chip Banana Bread either.
• For a tropical twist on the classic recipe, make this tasty Banana Coconut Bread!
• If you're a berry lover, treat yourself to this yummy Blueberry Banana Bread and this delish Strawberry Banana Bread.

Print

Banana Apple Bread

Learn how to make the BEST Banana Bread with fresh apples! It's the perfect fall treat.

Course Bread

Cuisine American

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 45 minutes minutes

Total Time 1 hour hour 5 minutes minutes

Servings 12 slices

Calories 332kcal

Author Ginnie Leeming

Equipment

• Stand Mixer
• 9 x 5-Inch Loaf Pan

Ingredients

For Bread:

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature (plus more for buttering pan)
• ⅔ cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup mashed banana (about 2 medium bananas)
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon baking powder
• 2 cups diced apple (about 1 large apple)
• ¾ cup chopped walnuts

For Glaze + Topping:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• pinch kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped walnuts

Instructions

Make Bread:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan (or spray with nonstick cooking spray), then set aside.
• Mix 6 tablespoons butter and ⅔ cup brown sugar until light and fluffy, using a stand mixer (or hand mixer).
• Add 2 eggs and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, then mix until fully incorporated.
• Stir in 1 cup mashed banana by hand. Set aside.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups flour, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ¾ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon baking powder.
• Using a spatula, gently fold flour mixture into butter mixture, stopping when it's about halfway mixed in. (There should still be flour visible when you are done.)
• Add 2 cups diced apple and ¾ cup chopped walnuts. Using spatula to fold them into the batter, stopping when everything is just combined (do not over-mix).
• Transfer batter to loaf pan, then bake for about 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
• Let bread cool in pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before adding glaze.

Prepare Glaze + Topping:

• Add 1 cup powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons maple syrup, ½ teaspoon vanilla, and a pinch salt to a small bowl. Stir until totally smooth.
• Use a spoon to drizzle the glaze over the cooled banana bread. (You may have a little left over.)
• Sprinkle the finely chopped walnuts over the glazed loaf.
• Serve bread immediately, or store in an airtight container until ready to eat.

Notes

Apples - Any crisp, tart (or tart-sweet) apple will work, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, or Cosmic Crisp. You can peel the apples if you prefer, or leave the skin on (it will soften as the apples cook).

Bananas - For the best results, wait until your bananas have plenty of brown spots before making the bread. Perfectly ripe bananas won't work well.

Measuring the Flour - Lightly spoon the flour into a dry measuring cup, then use a knife (or something else with a straight edge) to level off the top. Do not scoop the measuring cup into the flour. Scooping the flour packs it into the cup and is likely to make your bread dry.

Making the Glaze - The Maple Glaze should be thick, but drizzle-able. If the glaze is too thick, you can thin it by adding more maple syrup (½ teaspoon at a time). If it's too thin, add more powder sugar (bit by bit) until you get the right consistency.

Adding the Glaze - Save on cleanup time by placing a piece of foil or parchment paper under the wire rack (or set it on a baking sheet) before drizzling the glaze over the bread.

More - Check out the info before this recipe card for helpful tips, step by step photos, recipe variations, and more!

Nutrition

Calories: 332kcal

The post Apple Banana Bread appeared first on Hello Little Home.

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ginnie's Take

Simple, yet flavorful toppings are the easiest way to turn good recipes into great recipes. And when it comes to sweet treats, this scrumptious Maple Glaze is one of my favorites! I've been making this luscious maple-flavored icing for years, and it's so simple to prepare. A generous drizzle of this homemade glaze is the perfect addition to all your favorite desserts, like cookies, quick breads, donuts, and cakes!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Delicious - You'll love this recipe's sweet and cozy maple flavor! It's the perfect compliment to your fave treats.
• Easy - This recipe can't be screwed up! It takes just five minutes to make, and there are no special techniques required. It's foolproof: just add the ingredients to a bowl and mix.
• Versatile - You can use this recipe as a glaze, drizzle, or icing (depending on how thick you make it). Add it to any dessert that needs a little something extra, from cookies to quick breads, and so much more! You'll find lots of ideas below.

Ingredients

You need just a few simple ingredients for this Maple Icing:

• Maple Syrup - You will need some maple syrup, of course. Choose your favorite variety, but do make sure to use real maple syrup (not pancake syrup).
• Sugar - Powdered sugar (also known as confectioners sugar) forms the base of the simple glaze.
• Vanilla - A little vanilla extract adds a lovely, rich flavor.
• Salt - You'll also add a pinch of kosher salt, which enhances the other ingredients and offsets the sweetness a bit.

This recipe is naturally vegetarian, gluten free, and nut free. For a vegan glaze, use organic powdered sugar, or sugar that is specifically marked vegan.

How to Make Maple Syrup Glaze

This Powdered Sugar and Maple Syrup Glaze couldn't be easier to make! You'll find a detailed recipe card with measurements below, but the basic process is so simple. Combine the ingredients in a bowl, then stir until totally smooth.

When it's done, the glaze should be fairly thick, but still drizzle-able. You can easily control the thickness simply by adding more maple syrup or sugar, and you can even adjust the sweetness. Check out the Helpful Tips section below for assistance.

Helpful Tips

This Maple Glaze recipe is virtually foolproof, but keep these tips in mind for the best results:

• Too Thick - Add more maple syrup (½ teaspoon at a time) to thin the glaze.
• Too Thin - Stir in extra powdered sugar to thicken the glaze.
• Less Sweet - Cut the maple syrup amount in half and stir in just enough milk or cream (a tablespoon or two) to thin to desired consistency.
• Make Ahead - Prepare the recipe, then store it in an airtight container in your refrigerator. Let the glaze warm to room temperature before using it, and add more maple syrup (if needed) to thin the icing slightly.
• Drizzling - Use a spoon or fork to drizzle the glaze over baked goods. For more control, I recommend using a frosting bulb (one of my fave kitchen tools!).
• Spreading - Dollop the glaze on your treats with a spoon, then spread with the back of the spoon (or an offset spatula).
• Dunking - Adjust the glaze to have a thinner consistency, and place a wire baking rack over a baking sheet. Dunk your treats directly into the glaze, coating one side (or both sides), then place on the rack.

How to Use

There are so many delightful ways to use this Maple Drizzle! Here are a few to try:

• Donuts - Use it to glaze homemade donuts.
• Breads -Drizzle over quick breads (after cooling them). I used it on this yummy Apple Banana Bread.
• Cakes - Spread (or drizzle) over cakes. So much faster than frosting!
• Cookies - Use it to decorate cookies. It's the perfect topper for these Maple Pecan Cookies, and you could dip my popular Stamped Cookies in it, too!
• Scones - Drizzle over homemade scones.
• Muffins + Cupcakes - Add to muffins and cupcakes before serving. It would make a delicious finishing touch on these Coffee Cake Muffins!

Storage

Store leftover glaze in an airtight container in your refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for four to five days. Let warm to room temperature before using. You may need to thin it with extra maple syrup, if it has become too thick.

Related Recipes

Looking for similar ideas? Try one of these easy recipes next:

• This basic Powdered Sugar Glaze is a must have recipe! It's quick to prepare, super versatile, and easy to customize with different flavorings.
• I love pairing this mouthwatering Cream Cheese Frosting with almost any sweet treat. It's so delicious.
• If you're looking for a light, tangy frosting recipe, this Sour Cream Frosting is truly the best!
• This simple Cookie Icing recipe makes decorating your fave cookies fun and easy.

Print

Maple Syrup Glaze

This easy maple-flavored glaze is the tastiest finishing touch for all your favorite sweet treats!

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 20 servings

Calories 63kcal

Author Ginnie Leeming

Ingredients

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• pinch salt

Instructions

• Add 2 cups powdered sugar, ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to a medium bowl.
• Mix until glaze is totally smooth.
• Use immediately or store in refrigerator. Enjoy!

Notes

Yield - This recipe makes about 1 ¼ cups, which is equal to 20 servings (1 tablespoon each).

How to Make Thinner / Thicker - The glaze is on the thicker side, however you can easily adjust it. Add more maple syrup (½ teaspoon at a time) to thin the glaze. For a thicker glaze, stir in more powdered sugar bit by bit.

More - Check out the info before this recipe card for helpful tips, recipes + ideas for using the glaze, and more!

Nutrition

Calories: 63kcal

The post Maple Glaze appeared first on Hello Little Home.

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ginnie's Take

Crostini is one of my favorite things to make with leftover bread. These tiny Italian toasts are simple to prepare, and they're so crunchy and delicious (always a crowd pleaser at parties). Best of all, you can make them with almost any kind of bread! I made a batch of Focaccia Crostini recently, and I love how they turned out. I topped them with a creamy cheese and roasted tomatoes (yum!), but you can serve them with other toppings and dips, too. You have to try this easy recipe!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Delicious - Homemade crostini has a light, crispy texture, and a wonderful flavor. Especially when you use high quality bread, like focaccia, to make it!
• Easy to Make - This recipe takes minutes to prep and bake. Super simple, and they store well, too. Make them ahead of time for parties.
• Versatile - Serve these mini toasts with your favorite toppings or alongside a creamy dip. You'll love them either way. They're perfect for snacking and so fun for parties!

Ingredients

You need just a few basic ingredients for this focaccia appetizer:

• Bread - You'll need some focaccia bread, of course! I used store bought, but homemade works great, too. You can use flavored focaccia (like rosemary), but I'd avoid bread with a thick layer of toppings (they'll just fall off) or with toppings that might burn when baked (like cheese).
• Oil - Before baking, you'll brush the toasts with extra virgin olive oil, which helps them crisp up and brown.
• Salt - Just a pinch of kosher salt is all that's need to season the crostini.
• Garlic - For extra flavor, rub the toasts with a garlic clove after baking.

This recipe is naturally vegetarian, vegan, dairy free, and nut free.

You'll Also Need

You will need a sharp knife to slice the bread (a serrated knife works best), a pastry brush for the olive oil, and a large baking sheet (or two) for cooking the focaccia.

How to Make Crostini with Focaccia Bread

This yummy focaccia appetizer couldn't be easier to make! You'll find a detailed recipe card with measurements below, but here's a quick overview of the steps:

1. Slice bread. Focaccia typically comes in big slabs, so you'll want to start by sectioning the bread into smaller pieces. About 2 ½ to 3 inches wide (or big enough for two bites) is best. Once you've done that, cut these small pieces into thin slices.
2. Brush with oil. Place the bread slices on a baking sheet, then use a pastry brush to brush them with olive oil. Sprinkle lightly with salt.
3. Bake. Transfer the baking sheet to your oven, then cook the toasts until they are crisp throughout. No need to flip!
4. Rub with garlic. Cut a garlic clove in half, then rub the cut side over the toasts. Tip: This step is optional. If I'm pairing the toasts with savory toppings, I like to add garlic. But for sweeter toppings, you can skip it.
5. Add toppings. Once the toasted bread has cooled, add your toppings!

And that's all there is to it! I used this Focaccia Crostini recipe to make this scrumptious Roasted Tomato Crostini. Each toast has a layer of goat cheese (other spreadable cheeses will also work) topped with roasted grape tomatoes. So delicious, and the perfect bite size appetizer!

Topping Ideas

You can top these crispy mini toasts with almost anything! Here are some of my favorite recipes and topping ideas:

Recipes

• Tomato Crostini - This bruschetta-esque topping is super delish and easy to make!
• Goat Cheese + Hot Honey Crostini - The perfect sweet-savory bite.
• Mushroom Crostini - A must make for mushroom lovers!
• Butternut Squash Crostini - This fall favorite pairs roasted squash with creamy cheese and and crispy fried sage leaves.
• Avocado Crostini - A fun mini avocado toast version!
• Blue Cheese + Cranberry Crostini - Perfect for holiday celebrations.
• Brie + Fig Crostini - An irresistible combination of sweet-savory flavors!
• Peach + Hot Honey Crostini - This one's a true summer favorite.
• Pesto Ricotta Crostini - So creamy and dreamy. Topped with fresh tomatoes.

More Toppings

• Veggies - Almost any vegetable, whether fresh, pickled, sautéed, or roasted, makes a great topper. Try roasted asparagus, caramelized onions, Roasted Grape Tomatoes (or Cherry Tomatoes), mashed peas, Marinated Tomatoes, roasted sweet potatoes or carrots, marinated artichoke hearts, sautéed or roasted bell peppers, cauliflower, and more.
• Fruit - Sweet fruits (either fresh or dried) are also wonderful. Figs, apples, peaches, pears, strawberries, blackberries, grapes, citrus, and blueberries will all work. Serve the fruit on its own, or pair it with cheese for a sweet-savory combination.
• Jam - Gourmet jams will also work great. I like pairing them with savory cheeses.
• Cheese - Speaking of cheese, it makes the best topping. Try feta, ricotta, blue, goat, brie, parmesan, burrata, or fresh mozzarella. You can spread cheese on the toasts, slice it, or sprinkle it over other toppings for a garnish.
• Pesto - Classic Pesto Sauce can be spread on the bread or drizzled over other ingredients. Experiment with different flavors, like Rosemary, Macadamia, Cilantro, Trapanese, or Kale.
• Dips - Serve Crostini alongside your favorite dips / spreads. Pair with Guacamole, Homemade Hummus, Cream Cheese Dip, Baked Ricotta Dip, Caramelized Onion Dip, Mexican Spinach Dip, or Whipped Goat Cheese.
• More - Top the toast with briny olives or tapenade, spread them with homemade Roasted Garlic, or sprinkle them with capers, fresh herbs, or chopped nuts.

Storage

Crostini can be made in advance, then stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They'll keep for about two weeks, although they do taste freshest when eaten within a few days after making. You can also freeze crostini for one to two months.

Related Recipes

Looking for similar ideas? Check out these easy recipes next:

• My Basic Crostini Recipe is a true classic! It's the perfect base for any topping.
• This Garlic Crostini is just as easy to make as the original recipe, but even tastier!
• Sourdough fan? Make sure to bookmark this yummy Sourdough Crostini.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Print

Focaccia Crostini

Learn how to make homemade crostini with focaccia bread! So easy and so delicious!

Course Appetizer

Cuisine Italian

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 20 minutes minutes

Servings 20 crostini

Calories 21kcal

Author Ginnie Leeming

Equipment

• Serrated Knife
• Pastry Brush
• Large Baking Sheet

Ingredients

• 1 piece focaccia bread, about 2 ½ to 3 inches wide (see note)
• 1 to 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• kosher salt

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Using serrated knife, cut focaccia into 20 thin slices about ¼-inch thick.
• Place bread slices on a baking sheet in a single layer (you'll may need more than one). Brush lightly with olive oil. Flip, then brush the other side with oil.
• Sprinkle slices lightly with salt.
• Bake for 5 to 10 minutes, or until crisp throughout and lightly golden (no need to flip).
• Serve with your choice of toppings. Enjoy!

Notes

Bread - You can easily size this recipe up or down, depending on how much focaccia you have. If you're starting with a large slab, begin by sectioning it into smaller pieces about 2 ½ to 3 inches wide, then cut these sections in thin slices about ¼ inch thick. The finished toasts should be just big enough for two bites.

Garlic Flavored - For garlic crostini, rub the baked toasts with the cut side of a halved garlic clove.

Toppings - Almost anything can be used as a crostini topping, including cheeses, fruits and veggies, jams and spreads, fresh herbs, and nuts. I used these toasts to make this Tomato Goat Cheese Crostini, but you'll find lots of other topping ideas before this recipe card.

Nutrition

Calories: 21kcal

The post Focaccia Crostini appeared first on Hello Little Home.

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ginnie's Take

It's hard to believe that fall is almost here! Dallas is still scorching hot, so personally, I'm ready for sweater weather (ASAP please). But at the same time, I'm sad that harvest season is almost over. Thankfully, it's still easy to find tasty tomatoes, and the basil on my balcony is going strong. I made this mouthwatering Roasted Tomato Crostini to celebrate those two ingredients, and it was love at first bite. Between the creamy cheese, jammy tomatoes, and crunchy toasts, you won't be able to resist this scrumptious appetizer!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor - This colorful appetizer has the tastiest tomato-basil and creamy cheese topping! Each bite is filled with wonderful tastes and textures.
• Easy to Make - Crostini is simple to prepare. You can even make the toasts and topping in advance to save time before a party.
• Crowd Pleaser - This yummy appetizer is guaranteed to disappear fast at your next get together. It's simple, fresh tasting, and so flavorful!

Ingredients

You need just a few simple ingredients for this tasty tomato appetizer:

• Tomatoes - The toasts are topped with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes, which are really easy to make. You can use grape or cherry tomatoes (I like these colorful Wild Wonders), plus extra virgin olive oil, fresh garlic, salt, and pepper.
• Cheese - You'll spread the toasts with creamy goat cheese before adding the tomato topping. Not a fan of goat cheese? No worries, the Variations section below has substitution ideas.
• Toasts - I used Focaccia Crostini to make this bite-sized appetizer. You'll need focaccia bread (a standard baguette works great, too), extra virgin olive oil, and salt.
• Basil - A sprinkle of fresh basil is the perfect finishing touch!

This recipe is naturally vegetarian and nut free. You can easily adapt the appetizer for other diets, too. Check out the Variations section below for tips!

You'll Also Need

Grab a sharp knife (serrated knives work best) and a pastry brush to make the crostini, plus a couple large baking sheets to cook the toasts and roast the tomatoes.

How to Make Roasted Cherry Tomato Crostini

This Cherry Tomato and Goat Cheese Crostini is a snap to make! You'll find a detailed recipe card below, but here's a quick overview of the steps:

1. Make crostini. Start by thinly slicing the focaccia, then brush it with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Bake until lightly browned and crisp.
2. Roast tomatoes. Next, you'll mix the tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast. Stir the garlic in about halfway though, so it doesn't burn.
3. Add cheese. Once everything is ready, spread a thin layer of goat cheese on the toasts.
4. Top with tomatoes. Add the tomatoes over the cheese. Tip: I found that each toast was the perfect size for two tomatoes, but this might vary depending on the size of your tomatoes.
5. Sprinkle with basil. Finish the crostini by adding a sprinkle of thinly sliced basil.

Okay, time to enjoy your Roasted Tomato Crostini! You are going to love its tasty tomato-basil flavor.

Variations

This Tomato Basil Crostini is easy to customize according to your diet or what's in your pantry! Here are a few ideas to try:

• Cheese - Replace the goat cheese with ricotta, burrata, Boursin, cream cheese, or another creamy, spreadable cheese.
• Herbs - Swap out the basil for fresh rosemary, thyme, tarragon, parsley, dill, or chives.
• Bread - Use a baguette to make the crostini, or try other types of bread, such as sourdough.
• Vegan + Dairy Free - Substitute your favorite plant based spreadable cheese for the goat cheese. I like Treeline!
• Gluten Free - Make the crostini with a gluten free baguette.

Serving Suggestions

Planing a party? Pair these toasts with other easy appetizers, like this creamy Green Goddess Dip, mini Cheese Tarts, unique Watermelon Gazpacho (served in shot glasses), colorful Feta, Pepper, and Olive Bites, or these savory Cheese Truffles.

Storage

This Cherry Tomato Crostini recipe tastes best when freshly made. However, you can make the crostini and roast the tomatoes in advance. Store the crostini in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks (or freeze for one to two months). The tomato topping can also be made a couple days in advance and refrigerated. Let it warm up to room temperature (or gently warm in your microwave) before using.

Related Recipes

If you enjoyed this recipe, try my bruschetta-like Tomato Crostini or creamy Tomato and Pesto Ricotta Crostini next! And check out my other crostini recipes:

• This yummy Peach Crostini is the perfect way to show off peak summer peaches!
• Like avocado toast? Then you have to try this colorful Avocado Crostini.
• This mouthwatering Mushroom Crostini is another crowd pleaser!
• Cure a sweet-savory craving with this luscious Whipped Goat Cheese Crostini.
• This wonderful Butternut Squash Cheese Crostini is bursting with fall flavors!
• You can make this delightful Fig and Brie Crostini in minutes, and it's so tasty.
• Serve this Cranberry Blue Cheese Crostini for all your holiday get togethers!

P.S. Looking for more cherry and grape tomato recipes? You'll love this amazing Cherry Tomato Jam, tomato-based Pesto Trapanese, and these super simple Marinated Tomatoes, too!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Print

Roasted Tomato Crostini

Treat your guests to this scrumptious crostini topped with creamy cheese and roasted cherry tomatoes. So delicious!

Course Appetizer

Cuisine Italian

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes minutes

Total Time 45 minutes minutes

Servings 20 crostini

Calories 44kcal

Author Ginnie Leeming

Equipment

• Serrated Knife
• Pastry Brush
• 2 Large Baking Sheets

Ingredients

For Crostini:

• 1 piece focaccia bread, about 2 ½ to 3 inches wide (see note)
• 1 to 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• kosher salt

For Roasted Tomatoes:

• 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes (about 2 cups / 10-12 ounces / 283-340 grams)
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• kosher salt
• freshly ground pepper
• 1 large clove garlic, minced

For Assembly:

• 4 ounces (113 grams) goat cheese (at room temperature)
• 4 basil leaves, thinly sliced

Instructions

Prepare Crostini:

• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Using serrated knife, cut focaccia into 20 thin slices about ¼-inch thick.
• Place bread slices on a baking sheet in a single layer, then brush both sides lightly with extra virgin olive oil.
• Sprinkle slices lightly with salt.
• Bake for 5 to 10 minutes, or until crisp throughout and lightly golden (no need to flip). Set aside.

Prepare Tomatoes:

• While crostini bakes, place 1 pint tomatoes on a large baking sheet, then drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. Mix well.
• Bake tomatoes for 10 minutes, then remove from oven.
• Stir in 1 large clove minced garlic, then return tomatoes to oven. Continue roasting until tomatoes are shriveled and some are popped (about 10 to 15 minutes more).
• Remove from oven and set aside.

Assemble Crostini:

• Spread each crostini lightly with goat cheese.
• Top with roasted tomatoes, followed by a sprinkle of sliced basil.
• Serve immediately. Enjoy!

Notes

Bread - The crostini can be made with a more traditional baguette, if you'd prefer. If you're starting with a large focaccia slab, begin by sectioning it into smaller pieces about 2 ½ to 3 inches wide, then cut these sections in thin slices about ¼ inch thick. The finished toasts should be just big enough for two bites.

Cheese - If you're not a fan of goat cheese, use ricotta, burrata, Boursin, cream cheese, or another spreadable cheese instead.

More - Check out the info before this recipe card for step by step photos, recipe variations, and more!

Nutrition

Calories: 44kcal

The post Roasted Tomato Crostini appeared first on Hello Little Home.

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ginnie's Take

Party season is just around the corner, and this Sourdough Crostini recipe is one of my go-to recipes for easy entertaining. These crispy toasts are as fun to make as they are to eat, and they're a great way to use up leftover sourdough bread. Choose your favorite toppings (you'll find lots of ideas below) for a delicious party appetizer!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Delicious - Tangy sourdough bread gives these mini toasts an extra tasty flavor, and their crispy texture holds up to any topping.
• Easy to Make - This recipe is truly simple to make! Just slice the bread, brush with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and bake.
• Perfect for Parties - Crostini makes the best finger food for parties, and you'll love snacking on these tiny toasts, too. And I've rounded up tons of topping ideas for inspiration.

Ingredients

You need just a few basic ingredients to make this easy recipe:

• Bread - You'll need some sourdough, of course! Baguettes are easiest to work with, but larger loaves can also be used.
• Olive Oil - The bread is brushed with extra virgin olive oil before baking, which helps the tiny toasts crisp up and brown.
• Salt - You'll season the crostini with a sprinkle of kosher salt.
• Garlic (Optional) - This step is optional, but for extra flavor, I love rubbing the toasts with a halved garlic clove after baking.

This recipe is naturally vegetarian, vegan, dairy free, and nut free!

You'll Also Need

Grab a sharp knife to slice the bread (serrated knives works best), a pastry brush for adding the olive oil, and a large sheet pan (or two) for baking the focaccia.

How to Make Sourdough Bread Crostini

This crunchy sourdough appetizer couldn't be easier to make! You'll find a detailed recipe card below, but here's a quick overview of the process:

1. Slice bread. Start by thinly slicing the bread. If you're working with a larger loaf, cut the slices in half or quarters to make them smaller. Tip: The finished toasts should be just big enough for two small bites.
2. Brush with oil. Place the toasts on a large baking sheet (or two), then brush them with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt.
3. Bake. Transfer the baking sheet to your oven, then cook the toasts until they are lightly browned and crisp throughout. No need to flip.
4. Add toppings. Once the toasts have cooled, it's time to add your toppings!

I used this Sourdough Bread Crostini to make this mouthwatering Pesto Ricotta Crostini! The toasts are topped with a delectable combo of creamy ricotta pesto sauce and fresh tomatoes. Yum!

Topping Ideas

There are so many delicious ways to top these Mini Sourdough Toasts! Here are some of my favorites:

Recipes

• Mushroom + Goat Cheese Crostini - A favorite with mushroom lovers!
• Fresh Tomato Crostini - This easy topping tastes just like bruschetta!
• Roasted Butternut Squash Crostini - This fall favorite is topped with fried sage leaves.
• Goat Cheese and Hot Honey Crostini - An irresistible snack with a touch of sweet heat.
• Avocado Tomato Crostini - If you're an avocado toast fan, you'll love this mini version!
• Cranberry Blue Cheese Crostini - Especially wonderful for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
• Peach Goat Cheese Crostini - A must make during peach season.
• Brie + Fig Crostini - You'll love sophisticated sweet-savory flavors!

More Toppings

• Vegetables - Top with your favorite fresh, pickled, sautéed, or roasted veggies. A few of my faves: caramelized onions, Roasted Grape Tomatoes (or Cherry Tomatoes), roasted asparagus, Marinated Tomatoes, roasted sweet potatoes or carrots, mashed peas, sautéed or roasted bell peppers, marinated artichoke hearts, cauliflower, and more.
• Fruit - Fresh or dried fruits also work great. Think: figs, apples, grapes, peaches, strawberries, blackberries, pears, citrus fruits, blueberries, and more. Try pairing fruit with cheese for a sweet-savory combo.
• Jam - Gourmet jams (such as fig, caramelized onion, and fruit spreads) are also lovely. I like pairing jams with something savory.
• Cheese - Of course, cheese makes an amazing topping. Try ricotta, feta, blue, brie, parmesan, goat, burrata, or fresh mozzarella. Cheese can be spread on the toasts, sliced, or sprinkled over other ingredients.
• Pesto - Spread Pesto Sauce directly on crostini or drizzled it over other ingredients. Beyond basic basil, try other flavors, such as Rosemary, Trapanese, Macadamia, Kale, or Cilantro.
• Dips - Use Crostini as a dunker for your fave dips and spreads. Try them with my Homemade Hummus,  Guacamole, Baked Ricotta Dip, Caramelized Onion Dip, Cream Cheese Dip, Whipped Goat Cheese, or Mexican Spinach Dip.
• More - Add briny olives or tapenade, spread the toasts with homemade Roasted Garlic, or sprinkle them with capers, fresh herbs, or chopped nuts.

Storage

You can make this Sourdough Crostini in advance, then store it an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for about two weeks, although the toasts taste best when eaten within a few days. You can also freeze the crostini for one to two months.

Related Recipes

Looking for similar ideas? Try my basic Crostini Recipe, yummy Garlic Crostini, and tasty Focaccia Crostini next! And you'll love these other sourdough recipes, too:

• These easy Sourdough Croutons are the tastiest salad topper!
• Craving comfort food? You will love this gooey Sourdough Grilled Cheese Sandwich.
• This scrumptious Sourdough Bread Stuffing is one of Hello Little Home's most popular recipes. It's a must make during the holiday season!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Print

Sourdough Bread Crostini

Learn how to make the tastiest crostini with sourdough bread!

Course Appetizer

Cuisine Italian

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 20 minutes minutes

Servings 50 crostini

Calories 22kcal

Author Ginnie Leeming

Equipment

• Serrated Knife
• Pastry Brush
• Large Baking Sheet

Ingredients

• 1 (1 pound / 454 gram) sourdough baguette (see note)
• 2 to 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• kosher salt

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Using a serrated knife, cut 50 thin slices (¼-inch thick) from baguette.
• Place sliced bread on a baking sheet in a single layer (you'll probably need more than one). Brush lightly with olive oil. Flip, then brush the other side with oil.
• Sprinkle slices lightly with salt.
• Bake for 5 to 10 minutes, or until crisp throughout and lightly golden (no need to flip).
• Serve with your choice of toppings. Enjoy!

Notes

Slicing the Sourdough - Sourdough baguettes are easiest to work with, but you can use other loaf shapes, too. When you're slicing the bread, just keep in mind that each toast should be just big enough for 2 small bites. For larger loaves, start by slicing the bread ¼-inch thick, then cut the slices in halves or quarters (depending on the size of the loaf).

Scaling the Recipe - This recipe is easy to scale up or down, depending on how many toasts you need. You should be able to get a least 50 crostini from a 1 pound (454 gram) baguette. It's also a great recipe for using leftover sourdough bread!

Garlic Flavor - For garlic crostini, rub the toasts with the cut side of a halved garlic clove after baking.

Toppings - You can top crostini with cheeses, fruits and veggies, jams and spreads, fresh herbs, and nuts. I used these toasts to make this delicious Tomato and Pesto Ricotta Crostini, but you'll find tons of other topping ideas in the post before this recipe card.

Nutrition

Calories: 22kcal

The post Sourdough Crostini appeared first on Hello Little Home.