Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

If you’re looking for the perfect holiday appetizer that’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare, look no further than this Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread. This recipe has become a cherished staple at my family gatherings. Imagine a warm, crusty boule stuffed with gooey brie and sweet cranberry sauce—every bite is a delightful explosion of flavors that will have your guests coming back for more.

What makes this dish truly special is its versatility. Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy autumn evening with friends, it always fits in perfectly. Plus, it’s so simple to make that you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor, making it ideal for busy hosts.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love tearing into this cheesy bread—it’s fun to eat!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prep the bread ahead of time and bake it just before serving, saving you valuable time.
• Delicious flavor combination: The pairing of creamy brie and tangy cranberry sauce creates an irresistible taste that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread is a breeze! These simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create something truly special.

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to tailor it to your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch.
• Mix up the cheese: Try using gouda or goat cheese in place of brie for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it up: Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat that complements the sweetness of the cranberries.
• Herb infusion: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or basil instead of thyme and rosemary for a unique twist.

How to Make Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures that your bread bakes evenly and doesn’t stick.

Step 2: Crosshatch the Boule

Using a serrated knife, carefully crosshatch the boule by slicing every inch in both directions. Make sure not to slice all the way through to the bottom; this keeps your bread intact while allowing room for stuffing.

Step 3: Create the Herb Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, fresh thyme, and rosemary. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This flavorful mixture will soak into your bread and enhance every bite!

Step 4: Stuff It Up!

Brush the boule generously with the herb butter mixture, making sure to get inside those lovely crosshatches. Next, stuff each crosshatch with strips of brie followed by dollops of cranberry sauce. Don’t be shy—this is what makes it so delicious!

Step 5: Wrap and Bake

Wrap your prepared bread completely in foil to keep all that gooey goodness inside while baking. Place it on your lined baking sheet and bake until the cheese is melty and the bread is warm and toasty—about 20 minutes should do it!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, let your pull-apart bread cool for about five minutes before serving. Then gather your loved ones around as you pull apart those cheesy pieces filled with sweet cranberry bliss—enjoy every moment!

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Making this delectable pull-apart bread is a breeze with a few handy tips!

• Choose the right bread: A large, round boule works best because its sturdy crust holds up well to the stuffing and allows for easy pulling apart.

• Use room temperature brie: Allowing the brie to soften before filling the bread helps it melt more evenly, ensuring a gooey experience with every bite.

• Don’t rush the baking: Wrapping the bread in foil is essential for keeping it moist while baking. This step ensures that the cheese melts perfectly without drying out the bread.

• Experiment with herbs: While thyme and rosemary are fantastic, feel free to add other herbs like sage or oregano to customize the flavor profile to your liking.

• Serve warm: This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while the cheese is still melty. If you need to reheat leftovers, do so gently in an oven wrapped in foil.

How to Serve Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

This pull-apart bread not only tastes heavenly but also makes for an impressive centerpiece at any gathering! Here are some fun ideas on how to present it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh thyme sprigs: Adding a few fresh thyme sprigs on top adds an aromatic touch that enhances both presentation and flavor.
• Cranberry sauce drizzle: A light drizzle of extra cranberry sauce over the top can make the dish visually appealing and add an extra layer of sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Mixed greens salad: A crisp mixed greens salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette complements the richness of the bread, providing a refreshing counterbalance.
• Vegetable platter: Pairing with a colorful array of vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers creates a healthy contrast and adds crunch.
• Cheese board: Include a variety of cheeses, nuts, and fruits alongside your pull-apart bread for an elegant appetizer spread that guests will love.
• Soups: A hearty soup, such as pumpkin or butternut squash, pairs wonderfully with this dish, making for a cozy meal that’s perfect for fall gatherings.

Enjoy your Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread while basking in the warmth of good company—it’s sure to become a cherished holiday tradition!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread is not only a delightful addition to your holiday gatherings, but it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, ensuring that you have one less thing to worry about as the festivities approach.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover pull-apart bread in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To maintain freshness, consume within this timeframe for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• For best results, thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Unwrap the bread from any foil or plastic.
• Reheat directly on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melty again.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making and enjoying Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread.

Can I use different types of cheese instead of Brie?

Absolutely! While Brie offers a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with cranberry sauce, you can substitute with other soft cheeses like Camembert or even goat cheese if you prefer a tangy twist.

How do I serve Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread at parties?

This bread is perfect for sharing! Simply place it on a serving platter with small plates and napkins. Encourage guests to pull apart their own pieces, making it an interactive and fun appetizer!

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

Yes! You can prep this dish by assembling it and then wrapping it tightly before storing it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. It’s a great way to save time during busy holiday meals.

What occasions is Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread suitable for?

This delicious pull-apart bread is ideal for autumn celebrations, Christmas gatherings, and Thanksgiving feasts—whenever you want to impress your guests with a cozy treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe sparks joy as you gather around the table with friends and family. The combination of warm, gooey brie and sweet cranberry sauce wrapped in soft bread creates an irresistible experience that will surely become a favorite. Enjoy every moment of making this delightful dish—it’s sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your lovely creations!