Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

If you’re looking for a show-stopping appetizer that will wow your guests and delight your taste buds, then this Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread is just what you need! This recipe combines the creamy goodness of brie cheese with the sweet-tart flavor of cranberry sauce, all nestled in a warm, toasty bread. It’s not only incredibly delicious but also perfect for any occasion—from cozy family gatherings to festive holiday parties.

I love making this pull-apart bread because it’s so easy to prepare and always gets rave reviews. Just imagine pulling apart the soft bread, revealing melted brie and luscious cranberry sauce inside. It’s comfort food at its finest!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Prepare: This recipe takes just 10 minutes of prep time, making it ideal for busy days.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love digging into this cheesy, fruity treat!
• Perfect for Sharing: The pull-apart nature makes it a fun dish to enjoy with friends and family.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can assemble it in advance and bake it right before serving.
• Festive Flavors: The combination of brie and cranberry is perfect for autumn or winter celebrations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to whip up this delightful dish. Most of these items are likely already in your pantry or fridge!

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with the flavors and textures.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Use Different Cheeses: Swap out brie for camembert or goat cheese if you prefer something different.
• Mix in Fruits: Add some slices of apple or pear along with the cranberry sauce for added sweetness.
• Spice it Up: Incorporate a dash of red pepper flakes for a little heat!

How to Make Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that your bread bakes evenly and comes out perfectly warm and toasty.

Step 2: Prepare the Boule

Using a serrated knife, carefully crosshatch the boule. Slice every inch in both directions without cutting all the way through the bottom. This creates beautiful pockets to hold all that melty cheese and sweet cranberry sauce!

Step 3: Make the Herb Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, fresh thyme, and rosemary. Season generously with salt and pepper—this flavorful mixture adds depth to each bite. Brush this herb-infused butter all over the boule, ensuring it seeps into those lovely crosshatched cuts.

Step 4: Stuff with Brie and Cranberry Sauce

Stuff each crosshatch with strips of brie and spoonfuls of cranberry sauce. Don’t be shy; make sure there’s plenty of filling! Once stuffed, wrap the entire loaf in foil to keep everything cozy while baking.

Step 5: Bake Your Bread

Place your wrapped bread on a baking sheet and pop it in the oven. Bake until the cheese is melty and gooey, about 20 minutes. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be heavenly!

Step 6: Serve Warm

After baking, let your Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Then gather around with family or friends, pull apart those delicious pieces, and enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Creating the perfect Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread is all about the little details that make a big difference!

• Choose the Right Bread: A large, crusty boule works best because it holds up to the filling and provides a delightful crunch. A softer bread may become soggy.

• Don’t Rush the Crosshatching: Take your time when making the cuts in the boule. The deeper and more evenly spaced they are, the more cheese and cranberry sauce you’ll be able to stuff in, leading to a more flavorful bite.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary elevate the flavor profile of this dish. Dried herbs can work in a pinch, but fresh herbs provide a vibrant taste that complements the creamy brie and sweet cranberries beautifully.

• Wrap It Up: Wrapping your stuffed boule in foil while baking helps steam the bread and ensures that the cheese melts uniformly without browning too quickly.

• Let It Cool: Giving your bread a few minutes to cool after baking helps it set, making it easier to pull apart without losing all that delicious filling.

How to Serve Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

This stunning pull-apart bread deserves to be showcased at your next gathering! Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful appetizer.

Garnishes

• Fresh Thyme Sprigs: A few sprigs of fresh thyme on top not only add color but also enhance the aroma of your dish.
• Cranberry Drizzle: A light drizzle of extra cranberry sauce over the top adds a beautiful finishing touch and extra sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the bread while adding some crunch.
• Vegetable Platter: Crisp veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers served with hummus or your favorite dip provide a healthy contrast to this cheesy indulgence.
• Cheese Board: Offer an assortment of cheeses along with crackers and fruits. This adds variety and pairs well with your pull-apart bread’s flavors.
• Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites filled with herbs and breadcrumbs are easy to prepare and complement the rich taste of brie perfectly.

Enjoy serving this gorgeous Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread at your holiday gatherings—it’s sure to be a hit among family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread is not just a delightful treat for now; it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an ideal addition to your holiday gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap any leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the entire pull-apart bread tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, slice the bread before freezing so you can easily pull apart portions later.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove any wrapping and place the bread on a baking sheet.
• Cover loosely with aluminum foil and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Got questions? Here are some common ones about Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread!

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

Absolutely! You can prepare the bread up to the point of baking, then wrap it and store it in the refrigerator. Just allow it to come to room temperature before baking.

What can I serve with Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread?

This delicious appetizer pairs wonderfully with a variety of dips such as honey mustard or a creamy herb dip. It’s also great alongside a fresh salad or festive charcuterie board!

How do I know when my Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread is done?

Your pull-apart bread is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread is golden brown. Be sure to keep an eye on it while baking!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy and warmth to your holiday celebrations! The combination of gooey brie and sweet cranberry sauce encased in warm, crusty bread is simply irresistible. Enjoy making this delightful appetizer, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family. Happy baking!