Happy Friday, gang! November has officially arrived, and with it comes that cozy rhythm we wait for all year — crisp mornings, golden leaves, and slow, easy evenings at home. This week on Fridays with Oscar, we’re celebrating the start of the season with two simple recipes that capture the essence of fall entertaining: Pear & Prosciutto Crostini and an Apple Cider Old Fashioned. Sweet, savory, and perfectly seasonal, these easy dishes prove that the best gatherings don’t need to be complicated — just delicious.
Here’s What You’ll Find in This Post
- 🍐 An easy Pear & Prosciutto Crostini recipe that’s elegant and effortless
- 🍎 A seasonal Apple Cider Old Fashioned perfect for cozy entertaining
- 💡 FAQs for each recipe with make-ahead and serving tips
- 🐾 A meet-cute check in with Oscar & Ollie
- 👖 A peek at what Beth and Kelly are wearing while preparing this week’s recipes
Pear & Prosciutto Crostini with an Apple Cider Old Fashioned
🍎 Apple Cider Old Fashioned
A seasonal twist on a classic — the Apple Cider Old Fashioned brings warmth and depth to chilly fall evenings. The maple syrup adds a gentle sweetness, while apple cider softens the bourbon for a smooth, sippable finish.
✨ Beth’s Tip: Want to make it batch-style for guests? Multiply the ingredients by 4 or 6, mix in a pitcher, and chill before serving. Add the ice and garnishes just before guests arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
🍎 Apple Cider Old Fashioned
Q: Can I make this cocktail without bourbon?
A: Of course! Swap in dark rum or even apple brandy for a fun twist. For a non-alcoholic version, use extra cider with a dash of orange bitters.
Q: What type of apple cider works best?
A: Look for fresh, unfiltered apple cider — the kind found in the refrigerated section. It gives the drink a richer, more natural flavor.
Q: Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
A: Yes, though maple syrup adds that quintessential fall depth. If using honey, warm it slightly so it blends smoothly.
Q: How far ahead can I mix the cocktail?
A: You can combine the bourbon, cider, and maple syrup up to a few hours in advance. Add ice and bitters right before serving.
Q: What’s the best garnish for presentation?
A: A cinnamon stick and thin apple wheel are classic, but a sprig of rosemary adds a fragrant, festive touch for entertaining.
- 4 oz bourbon
- 2 oz fresh apple cider
- 1 oz pure maple syrup
- 4 dashes Angostura bitters
- Ice
- Cinnamon sticks and apple slices for garnish
In a cocktail shaker or mixing glass, combine bourbon, apple cider, maple syrup, and bitters with ice.
Stir (don’t shake) until chilled.
Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
Garnish with a cinnamon stick and apple slice.
🍐 Pear & Prosciutto Crostini
This elegant appetizer strikes the perfect balance between creamy, salty, and sweet — and it couldn’t be easier to make. The pears bring a soft, delicate sweetness that pairs beautifully with the salty prosciutto and smooth ricotta. Add a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze, and you’ve got a bite that looks as good as it tastes.
✨ Kelly’s Tip: For a more savory version, swap the honey for a light drizzle of balsamic reduction. The acidity brightens the flavor and balances the richness beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
🍐 Pear & Prosciutto Crostini
Q: Can I make the crostini ahead of time?
A: Yes — toast the bread up to a day ahead and store it in an airtight container. Assemble the toppings right before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.
Q: What type of pear works best for this recipe?
A: I love Bartlett or Anjou pears — they’re sweet but hold their shape. Avoid overly ripe pears, which can make the crostini soggy.
Q: Could I use another cheese instead of ricotta?
A: Absolutely. Whipped goat cheese or mascarpone both work beautifully. Goat cheese adds tang, while mascarpone creates an ultra-creamy texture.
Q: How can I make this appetizer more savory?
A: Skip the honey and drizzle lightly with olive oil or balsamic glaze, then finish with cracked black pepper or flaky sea salt.
Q: What wine pairs well with these crostini?
A: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light Pinot Noir complements the salty-sweet contrast perfectly.
- 1 French baguette sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 2 ripe pears thinly sliced
- 8 oz ricotta cheese or substitute whipped goat cheese
- Drizzle olive oil
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- 6 –8 slices prosciutto torn into smaller pieces
- 2 tbsp honey or balsamic glaze
- Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish
- Olive oil for brushing
Preheat oven to 375°F. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush lightly with olive oil. Toast for 8–10 minutes, until golden and crisp.
In a food processor, place the ricotta, olive oil, lemon juice, and process until light and smooth, 1 to 2 minutes.
Spread each crostini with a generous layer of ricotta.
Top with pear slices and small ribbons of prosciutto.
Drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze and garnish with thyme or rosemary.
Serve immediately — best enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Sweater Weather Comfort
🐾 With all the cooking and cocktail shaking, Kelly and I like to keep things comfortable but pulled together — because even in the kitchen, style has its place. You’ll spot us in the photos below wearing our favorite cozy layers while we prepare the Pear & Prosciutto Crostini and Apple Cider Old Fashioneds. It’s proof that a relaxed Friday at home can still look as good as it feels — equal parts effortless, functional, and a little bit festive.
Beth’s Sweater Weather Look
I finished the outfit with Ralph Lauren Suede Loafers —a timeless choice that adds just the right touch of sophistication. It’s the perfect fall combo for a laid-back Friday with Oscar
Shop Beth’s Sweater Weather Look
Kelly’s Sweater Weather Look
To finish things off, I slipped on my Greta Ballet Flats in a cheerful red for just the right pop of color. It’s an effortless look that transitions beautifully from morning errands to an afternoon happy hour at Beth’s with Oscar and Ollie; it’s exactly the kind of laid-back elegance Fridays call for.
Shop Kelly’s Sweater Weather Look
🍁 Cheers to Fall Entertaining Made Easy!
As we ease into November, I’m reminded that the best evenings are often the simplest — good food, a great drink, and a little time to unwind. These Pear & Prosciutto Crostini & Apple Cider Old Fashioned recipes are a lovely reminder that comfort and elegance can live side by side. So pour yourself a glass, savor a bite, and let fall’s cozy charm fill your weekend.
🐾 Oscar, Ollie, Kelly, and I send our love — and hope your Friday night is every bit as sweet and savory as this one. If you’re looking for more Fall Entertaining Inspiration, check out: Our Fig Smash and Caramelized Onion Flatbread Post.
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