1-First Step: Preparing the Bread Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (around 200°C). Lightly spray a baking sheet with olive oil spray. Arrange your 12 slices of crusty bread on the sheet, then drizzle them lightly with olive oil. This will help them achieve that perfect golden crunch when toasted.

2-Second Step: Toasting the Bread Place the bread slices in the oven and toast them for 8 to 10 minutes until golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning, as ovens can vary. You want them crispy and lightly browned, which will provide the perfect foundation for the creamy toppings.

3-Third Step: Adding the Garlic Flavor Once the bread is toasted and still warm, lightly rub each slice with the peeled garlic cloves. This adds a subtle aromatic flavor without overpowering the other ingredients. Just a gentle rub is all you need to infuse the bread with that wonderful garlic essence.

4-Fourth Step: Spreading the Burrata Place about 1 to 2 tablespoons of burrata cheese onto each slice of toasted bread. The burrata should be at room temperature for easy spreading. If you prefer a more rustic look, you can tear the burrata into pieces and distribute it over the bread rather than spreading it.

5-Fifth Step: Adding the Figs Top each crostini with quartered fresh figs. The figs should be washed, dried, and quartered before use. Arrange them nicely on top of the burrata so each bite will have a perfect balance of cheese and fruit.

6-Sixth Step: Finishing with Honey and Balsamic Drizzle honey and balsamic glaze over the crostini. These two elements create that sweet and tangy balance that makes this dish so special. Don’t be shy with the drizzle, but also avoid drenching the crostini, as you want to maintain some crunch in the bread.

7-Seventh Step: Seasoning and Garnishing Sprinkle flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper over the crostini to enhance all the flavors. Add small fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness. If you’re using optional chopped nuts, now’s the time to add them for extra texture.

8-Eighth Step: Serving Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture. The combination of warm toasted bread, room temperature burrata, and fresh figs is at its peak right after assembly. If you need to prepare components in advance, I’ll share tips on how to do that in a later section.