Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

This Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this cheesy and sweet appetizer will steal the show. The combination of warm, gooey brie and tart cranberry sauce encased in freshly baked bread creates an irresistible treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect even for beginner cooks.
• Flavor Explosion: The rich, creamy brie paired with the sweet-tart cranberry sauce offers a delightful flavor contrast.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as an appetizer for autumn gatherings, Christmas parties, or Thanksgiving feasts.
• Impressive Presentation: The pull-apart design looks stunning on any table, making it a showstopper at events.
• Comfort Food Appeal: Warm bread filled with cheese is always a hit and brings comfort to any meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread, having the right tools will ensure your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Serrated knife
• Small bowl
• Whisk or fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Large baking sheet: Provides ample space for the bread to bake evenly without messing up your kitchen.
• Serrated knife: Ideal for cutting through the crusty exterior of the boule without squishing it.
• Whisk or fork: Helps mix your butter and herbs thoroughly for even flavor distribution.

Ingredients

This pull-apart bread—stuffed with cheesy brie and sweet cranberry sauce—is a must-have holiday appetizer.

For the Bread

• 1 large boule
• 1/2 c. (1 stick) melted butter
• 2 tsp. fresh thyme leaves
• 2 tsp. freshly chopped rosemary
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

For the Filling

• 1 (8-oz.) wheel Brie, cut into thin strips
• 1 (15-oz.) can whole-berry cranberry sauce

How to Make Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Boule

Using a serrated knife, make crosshatch cuts in the boule by slicing every inch in both directions. Be careful not to cut all the way through the bottom.

Step 3: Make Herb Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, fresh thyme, and rosemary. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Brush with Butter Mixture

Generously brush the boule with your herb butter mixture. Ensure you get this inside all crosshatch cuts for maximum flavor.

Step 5: Stuff with Cheese and Cranberries

Stuff each crosshatch opening with strips of brie cheese followed by spoonfuls of whole-berry cranberry sauce.

Step 6: Wrap and Bake

Wrap the stuffed boule completely in foil. Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is melty and bread is warm, about 20 minutes.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let cool for about 5 minutes before serving warm. Enjoy this delightful appetizer straight from the oven!

How to Serve Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread is a delightful appetizer perfect for gatherings. Its warm, cheesy goodness pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Apples: Crisp apple slices add a refreshing crunch.
• Pears: Juicy pears complement the sweetness of cranberry sauce.
• Grapes: A mix of red and green grapes provides a pop of color.

Accompany with Nuts

• Walnuts: Chopped walnuts offer a rich, buttery flavor.
• Pecans: These nuts bring a sweet, earthy taste that balances the dish.
• Almonds: Sliced almonds add crunch and nutty richness.

Serve with Dips

• Honey: Drizzling honey over the bread enhances its sweetness.
• Fig Jam: Fig jam adds a fruity layer that pairs beautifully with brie.
• Balsamic Glaze: A touch of balsamic brings acidity to cut through the richness.

How to Perfect Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Perfecting your Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread can elevate your dish from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out delicious every time.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary contribute vibrant flavors to the butter mixture.
• Choose quality Brie: Opt for high-quality Brie for the creamiest texture and best taste.
• Don’t skimp on butter: Generously brushing melted butter ensures the bread stays moist while baking.
• Properly crosshatch the bread: Make even cuts to allow for even stuffing and melting of cheese.
• Wrap tightly in foil: Wrapping helps retain steam, making the bread soft and warm throughout.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that can complement or contrast its flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balance.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide savory depth alongside the bread’s richness.
3. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges can serve as a hearty side that’s easy to enjoy with your hands.
4. Cheese Platter: Offer an assortment of cheeses for variety; include mild options to contrast the brie.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Mushroom caps filled with savory mixtures create a delectable pairing.
6. Savory Quiche: Slice up some quiche for an eggy, creamy side that rounds out your appetizer spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread from good to exceptional. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overbaking the bread: This can lead to a dry texture. Keep an eye on your bread as it bakes, and remove it when it’s warm and toasty, approximately 20 minutes.
• Not using fresh herbs: Dried herbs lack the vibrant flavor needed for this dish. Always opt for fresh thyme and rosemary for the best taste.
• Skipping the crosshatch cuts: Neglecting this step means less space for filling. Ensure you cut deep enough to allow the Brie and cranberry sauce to seep in.
• Using cold Brie: Cold cheese doesn’t melt well. Make sure your Brie is at room temperature before stuffing it into the bread for optimal gooeyness.
• Not seasoning adequately: A little salt and pepper go a long way in enhancing flavors. Don’t skip this step; season your butter mixture generously.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Alternatively, wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap to keep it fresh.

Freezing Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

• For longer storage, freeze wrapped in foil for up to 2 months.
• Ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap in foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over medium heat, cover with a lid, and heat for about 5 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread:

Can I use different cheeses?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other soft cheeses like goat cheese or camembert if you prefer.

How do I make the dough from scratch?

You can use any basic bread recipe that yields a soft boule. Look for recipes that require rising time for maximum fluffiness.

Can I prepare Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the bread ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

What should I serve with this pull-apart bread?

Pair it with a side salad or as part of a charcuterie board filled with fruits and nuts.

Final Thoughts

Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread is not just an appetizer; it’s a delightful centerpiece that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Its flexibility allows you to customize ingredients based on personal tastes or dietary preferences. Give this recipe a try; your guests will love pulling apart layers of gooey cheese and sweet cranberry sauce!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread is a delightful and indulgent appetizer that combines the creaminess of brie cheese with the tartness of cranberry sauce, all nestled within a warm, freshly baked boule. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or enjoying a cozy evening at home. Its impressive presentation and flavor explosion make it an instant crowd-pleaser, inviting everyone to pull apart and savor each gooey bite. Ideal for sharing, this recipe can be prepared ahead of time, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your guests.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 large boule
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 2 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 (8 oz) wheel brie cheese, cut into strips
• 1 (15 oz) can whole-berry cranberry sauce

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Using a serrated knife, create crosshatch cuts in the boule without cutting through the bottom.
3. In a small bowl, mix melted butter with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the herb butter generously over the boule, ensuring it seeps into all cuts.
5. Stuff each opening with strips of brie followed by spoonfuls of cranberry sauce.
6. Wrap the stuffed boule in foil and bake for approximately 20 minutes until warm and melty.
7. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/8 of bread (approx. 85g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 30mg