Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

If you’re looking for a cozy, delightful appetizer that will impress your friends and family, look no further than this Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread! This recipe has become a cherished favorite in my home, especially during the holiday season. The combination of gooey brie and sweet cranberry sauce tucked inside warm, fresh bread creates an irresistible treat that disappears quickly at gatherings. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or festive celebrations alike!

This pull-apart bread not only tastes divine but is also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want a comforting snack, this dish will surely bring smiles around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delectable bread in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cheese and bread! This dish is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prep this bread ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to serve, making it a fantastic choice for parties.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy brie with tangy cranberry sauce is simply mouthwatering.
• Beautiful Presentation: Pull-apart bread is not only fun to eat but also looks stunning on any table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delicious Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread. You probably have most of these in your pantry already!

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! Here are a few ideas to customize your pull-apart bread:

• Add Some Spice: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes in the butter mixture for an extra kick.
• Change the Cheese: Swap out the brie for gouda or cheddar for different flavor profiles.
• Mix Up the Herbs: Try using basil or oregano instead of thyme and rosemary for a unique twist.
• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans with the cranberry sauce for added crunch.

How to Make Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures even baking and makes cleanup easier!

Step 2: Prepare the Boule

Using a serrated knife, carefully crosshatch your boule by slicing every inch in both directions. Be sure not to slice all the way through; you want the bottom intact so that all those delicious fillings stay inside!

Step 3: Create the Herb Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, whisk together your melted butter, fresh thyme, and rosemary. Season this mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Brushing this buttery blend over your bread will enhance its flavor and help it become golden brown.

Step 4: Stuff the Bread

Generously stuff each crosshatch with strips of brie and spoonfuls of cranberry sauce. Wrap your filled boule completely in foil—this helps keep all that gooey goodness locked in while baking.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Place your wrapped bread in the preheated oven and bake until the cheese is melty and the bread is warm—about 20 minutes should do it! After taking it out, let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Your guests won’t be able to resist diving into this scrumptious treat!

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Making this delightful pull-apart bread is easier than it seems, especially with a few handy tips!

• Choose the Right Boule: Opt for a large, crusty boule that can hold up to the stuffing. A firmer bread will create a wonderful texture and prevent tearing during the baking process.

• Don’t Overstuff: While it might be tempting to pack in as much brie and cranberry sauce as possible, overstuffing can lead to spills and uneven melting. Aim for a balanced filling in each crosshatch to keep everything in place.

• Brush Generously: Make sure to brush your melted butter mixture thoroughly over every inch of the boule. This not only adds flavor but also helps create a beautifully golden crust.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary elevate the flavor profile of your dish significantly. Dried herbs work in a pinch, but fresh herbs bring an aromatic quality that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.

• Let it Cool: After baking, allow your bread to cool for about five minutes before serving. This helps the cheese set slightly, making it easier to pull apart without everything oozing out at once!

How to Serve Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

This Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread is not only delicious but also visually stunning—perfect for impressing your guests! Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful appetizer.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some extra chopped thyme or rosemary on top just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Cranberry Drizzle: Create a simple cranberry drizzle using leftover cranberry sauce thinned out with a bit of warm water. Drizzle it over the top for added sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, walnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the bread while adding freshness.
• Vegetable Platter: Serve with an assortment of colorful fresh vegetables such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers. They add crunch and help balance out the creamy brie.
• Cheese Board: Pair this bread with a selection of cheeses (excluding any animal-derived gelatin), nuts, and fruits. It rounds out the appetizer spread beautifully.
• Soup: A warm bowl of butternut squash or tomato soup is an excellent companion. The comforting flavors match perfectly with the savory sweetness of the pull-apart bread.

Enjoy sharing this festive appetizer with family and friends during your holiday gatherings!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread is perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent choice for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it, ensuring you have a delicious appetizer ready to go when you need it!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the bread is completely cooled.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, to prevent freezer burn.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove the wrapping from the bread and place it on a baking sheet.
• Cover loosely with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful pull-apart bread.

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

Absolutely! You can prepare the bread up to the baking step and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve!

What can I substitute for Brie in Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread?

If you want a different flavor, consider using camembert or a soft cheese like goat cheese as a substitute.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread?

You can add extra herbs like sage or oregano, or mix in some chopped nuts for added texture and flavor within your crosshatches!

Is Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread suitable for vegetarians?

Yes! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly since it contains no meat products.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread brings warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations! It’s such a fun and interactive dish that everyone will love pulling apart. Enjoy making this delightful recipe, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with friends and family. Happy baking!