Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

This Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread is the perfect holiday appetizer or party snack that will impress your guests with its deliciously savory and sweet combination. Made with a round sourdough loaf, creamy brie cheese, and homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce, this easy-to-make pull-apart bread is baked to perfection with fragrant thyme, rosemary, and butter. Whether you’re looking for a unique addition to your holiday menu or a crowd-pleasing treat, this gooey, cheesy bread with a burst of tart cranberry flavor is sure to be a hit. Try this irresistible pull-apart bread recipe for your next gathering or special occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 large round sourdough bread
• ½ cup (1 stick) butter
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 (16 oz) wheel of brie, cubed
• 1 ½ cups whole berry cranberry sauce
• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Slice the sourdough bread both horizontally and vertically, creating 1-inch cubes, but do not cut all the way through to the bottom.
3. In a small bowl, melt the butter and stir in the dried thyme, rosemary, and salt.
4. Brush the bread generously with the herbed butter, making sure to get the butter inside the cuts as well.
5. Place the prepared bread on a baking sheet.
6. Fill each slice with a cube of brie cheese and a teaspoon of cranberry sauce.
7. Wrap the bread tightly in foil.
8. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

---

Tips:

• For extra flavor, you can use fresh herbs instead of dried thyme and rosemary.
• Be sure to cut the bread deep enough for the fillings but not all the way through so it holds its shape.
• If you like a golden, crispy top, unwrap the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Bread Type: While sourdough adds a great tang, you can also use a round ciabatta or Italian bread for a slightly different texture and flavor.
• Cheese: Swap out the brie for other soft cheeses like camembert or goat cheese for a different taste.
• Sauce: You can use other fruit sauces, such as fig or apple compote, if you want to try a different flavor combination.
• Herbs: Try adding fresh basil or oregano for a unique twist.

FAQs:

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bread and filling ahead of time, then wrap it in foil and refrigerate. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze this?
It’s best to bake the bread fresh, but you can freeze the unbaked, wrapped bread. When ready to bake, allow it to thaw before putting it in the oven.

Can I make this without cranberries?
Yes, you can use other ingredients like caramelized onions, apple chutney, or even a sweet and savory balsamic glaze.

Serving Suggestions:

This pull-apart bread is perfect for serving as an appetizer at holiday gatherings or parties. It also pairs beautifully with roasted meats or a fresh salad for a more substantial meal. For a sweet touch, enjoy it alongside a glass of red wine or sparkling cider.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. It combines the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth brie with the tart sweetness of cranberry sauce, all nestled inside warm, crispy sourdough. The irresistible combination of flavors and textures makes this a dish that’s perfect for sharing at festive occasions or cozy gatherings. Plus, it’s so simple to prepare but looks impressive on the table!