Blackberry Bruschetta Food

BLACKBERRY-ALMOND BRUSCHETTA

Steps:

• Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Bake French loaf as directed on can. Cool 5 minutes. Cut ends off loaf; cut loaf crosswise into 24 slices, about 1/2 inch thick. Arrange slices on ungreased cookie sheet. Spray each slice with cooking spray until lightly coated; sprinkle with granulated sugar. Return to oven; bake 8 to 10 minutes longer or until lightly toasted. Meanwhile, in small bowl, beat cream cheese, almond extract and 1/4 cup powdered sugar with electric mixer on low speed until well combined. Spread cheese mixture evenly onto toasted bread slices. Top each with 3 or 4 blackberries; sprinkle with almonds. With small strainer, sprinkle 3 tablespoons powdered sugar over bruschetta. High Altitude (3500-6500 ft): No change. *Special Touch: Garnish the serving platter with additional blackberries and fresh mint leaves.
• Contest Name: 42nd Bake-Off(r) Contest (Orlando, 2006) Contestant Name: Karen Mack City: Webster State: NY Prize Value: $10,000 Brand New You Category Winner

BLACKBERRY BRUSCHETTA

Steps:

• (If you are using frozen berries, thaw and drain well according to package directions.).
• Slice your baguette into about 24 thin rounds, about 1/2" thick (you might have extra bread left over).
• Preheat oven to 350 F and have ready a large baking sheet, ungreased.
• Lightly spray the tops of each bread round with some nonstick spray or brush with a small amount of melted butter.
• Sprinkle with granulated sugar evenly.
• Bake 8-10 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
• Meanwhile, beat cream cheese with almond extrac and powdered sugar using a mixer on low speed.
• Spread some cream cheese mixture on top of each bread round, then top with 3-4 berries, sprinkle with some nuts (if using) and garnish with a mint leaf.
• Using a sifter, dust some powdered sugar over all and serve.
• If making ahead: you can make the cream cheese spread in advance and just wait to toast and top the bruschetta until right before you plan to serve them.
• Also, if your berries are very very tart, you may need to add an extra sprinkling of granulated sugar to the berries, only be aware that this will cause the berries to weep a bit, so only do if necessary and eat right away.

BEST EVER BRUSCHETTA

Steps:

• In a medium mixing bowl, add the tomatoes, garlic, basil, vinegar, olive oil, cheese, salt and pepper.
• Mix thoroughly and let sit for at least 15 minutes at room temperature to let the flavors marinate.
• Slice the bread into individual pieces and spoon the mixture on top.