Poached Cherry and Goat Cheese Crostini

Preheat oven to 375°. 

In a large sauce pan bring water, sugar, and orange liqueur to a simmer. Add the cherries, orange zest, and almond extract; simmer for 10 minutes. Remove cherries and set aside to cool. Allow the remaining liquid to simmer for 10 minutes or until it has reduced by half. Remove from heat and set aside to cool. 

Slice baguette in 1-inch-thick slices and arrange in a single layer on a sheet pan. Drizzle the bread with olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt. Bake at 375° for 5 minutes or until lightly toasted. Set aside to cool. 

Spread a thick layer of goat cheese and sprinkle a pinch of black pepper on each toast slice. Toss the thyme and mint with the poached cherries and spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cherry mixture onto each slice. Finish the crostini with a drizzle of the remaining reduced cherry liquid.