Gooey Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread

If you’re searching for a holiday appetizer that’s both easy and impressive, look no further than Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread. With layers of gooey brie cheese, sweet-tart cranberry sauce, and garlicky melted butter, this festive bread is the perfect centerpiece for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any winter gathering. It’s warm, cozy, and guaranteed to disappear fast once placed on the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive flavors: Sweet cranberries and creamy brie create the perfect holiday pairing.
• Easy yet impressive: Looks like a bakery masterpiece but takes less than 30 minutes.
• Cheesy, gooey goodness: Every pull is packed with melted brie.
• Great for sharing: Guests can grab a piece with ease, making it fun for parties.
• Customizable: Change up the toppings for endless variations.

Ingredients

• 1 round sourdough loaf (about 1 lb)
• 8 oz brie cheese, rind on, cut into cubes
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• Pinch of salt and black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice sourdough loaf in a crisscross pattern without cutting all the way through.
2. Mix melted butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff brie cubes and cranberry sauce into bread cuts.
4. Brush bread with garlic butter mixture.
5. Wrap in foil and bake 15 minutes. Uncover and bake 10 more minutes until cheese is melted and bread is golden.
6. Garnish with herbs and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Switch up the bread: Sourdough is sturdy and flavorful, but Italian or French bread also works.
• Try different cheeses: Camembert or mozzarella can replace brie for a twist.
• Add crunch: Sprinkle in chopped pecans or walnuts before baking.
• Boost the cranberry: Add orange zest or honey to the cranberry sauce for extra flavor.
• Make ahead: Assemble the bread, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigerate: Wrap leftovers in foil and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F for 10 minutes.
• Freeze: Prepare but don’t bake. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 350°F, adding 10–15 minutes to baking time.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

This pull-apart bread is already a showstopper but pairs beautifully with:

• A holiday charcuterie board filled with meats, cheeses, and fresh fruit.
• Warm mulled cider or a sparkling cranberry mocktail.
• A fresh green salad to balance the richness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the bread with brie, cranberry sauce, and butter mixture. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. Bake just before serving for the best gooey texture.

What bread works best for pull-apart bread?

Dense artisan loaves like sourdough or boule are best because they hold their shape. Avoid soft sandwich bread, which can get soggy.

Do I need to remove the rind from brie?

Not at all. The rind is edible and helps the cheese hold together as it melts. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can remove it, but it’s not necessary.

How do I keep the bread warm for serving?

Wrap it in foil after baking and keep in a warm oven (200°F) until serving. This way the cheese stays melty and the bread doesn’t dry out.

Ready to Make It?

This Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread is the kind of recipe that feels festive and indulgent without being complicated. With its gooey melted brie, sweet cranberry sauce, and buttery garlic flavor, it’s the appetizer your guests will talk about long after the holidays. Save this recipe and make it your new holiday tradition!

You Might Also Like

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• Pumpkin Roll – A festive pumpkin cake with cream cheese filling.
• Buffalo Chicken Dip – Spicy, cheesy dip that’s perfect for game day or parties.

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