Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread Recipe

If you’re craving something irresistibly gooey, sweet, and a bit nutty that brings friends and family together around the table, then the Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful treat turns a humble round loaf of sourdough into a feast of melted brie, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans all wrapped in layers of soft, buttery bread. Perfect as an appetizer or a cozy snack, this recipe combines flavors and textures that will make you want to tear it apart piece by piece and savor every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread Recipe is simple but essential, creating layers of flavor and texture that balance each other perfectly. From the rich, creamy brie to the tangy cranberries, every component plays a delicious role.

• 1 round loaf sourdough bread: The perfect sturdy base with a crispy crust and soft interior to hold all the fillings.
• 4 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps brown the bread beautifully while keeping it moist.
• 2/3 cup raw pecans, chopped: Bring a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor to contrast the creamy brie.
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar: A touch of sweetness that complements the tart cranberries and the mild cheese.
• 1 (16 ounce) wheel of brie, cubed: The star of the dish, melting into pockets of gooey goodness throughout the bread.
• 1 cup dried cranberries: Add a pop of tartness and vibrant color that balances the richness of the brie.

How to Make Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by slicing your round sourdough loaf into a crisscross pattern—cutting almost down to the bottom without slicing all the way through. This creates little pockets ready to be filled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as it bakes.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, and dried cranberries. This blend will add sweetness, tartness, and crunch that perfectly complement the creamy brie.

Step 3: Stuff the Loaf

Carefully stuff the cubed brie and the pecan-cranberry mixture into the grooves of the bread. Make sure each slit gets plenty of filling so every pull-apart piece bursts with flavor and gooey cheese.

Step 4: Add Butter and Wrap

Melt the butter and drizzle it all over the bread, ensuring it seeps into the slices for that rich buttery flavor. Wrap the entire loaf in foil to keep everything moist and help the cheese melt perfectly.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the wrapped loaf at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes. Then unwrap and bake for another 5 minutes until the top is golden and crispy, and tucked-away cubes of brie are melted into creamy pockets ready for tearing.

How to Serve Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped rosemary or thyme over the top after baking to add a fragrant herbal note that brightens the rich flavors. A light drizzle of honey can also elevate the sweetness and make your presentation shine.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with fresh green salads, like arugula with a tangy vinaigrette or a crisp apple and fennel slaw. It also complements hearty soups such as butternut squash or tomato bisque, creating a well-rounded, comforting meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread Recipe on a rustic wooden board surrounded by small bowls of extra dried cranberries, nuts, and honey. For a party, add colorful napkins and a sharp cheese knife to invite guests to pull apart and share this cozy indulgence together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, wrap the bread tightly in foil or plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to 2-3 days, ready to enjoy again without losing its magic.

Freezing

You can freeze the stuffed and wrapped loaf before baking. Make sure it’s well wrapped to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as usual, which makes for a wonderful make-ahead appetizer option.

Reheating

To reheat, unwrap the bread and warm it in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. This brings back the gooey texture of the melted brie and refreshes the crispy crust just as deliciously as the first time.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?

Absolutely! While sourdough is ideal for its crusty exterior and chewy texture, you can try a rustic boule or a country white loaf. Just make sure it’s round and sturdy enough to hold the fillings without falling apart.

Is it possible to substitute the dried cranberries?

Yes, dried cherries or currants can be wonderful alternatives if you want to experiment with flavors while keeping that delightful tartness that pairs so well with brie.

Can I make this vegan or dairy-free?

You can swap out brie for a plant-based cheese alternative that melts well and use a vegan butter to keep the recipe dairy-free. The overall effect will be different but still delicious!

What is the best way to chop the brie for stuffing?

Cut the brie into small cubes about half an inch wide. This size ensures it melts evenly inside the bread pockets without overwhelming any single bite.

How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?

Wrapping the loaf in foil while baking helps trap steam to melt the cheese without drying it out, but be sure not to over-soak the bread with butter. Baking it unwrapped for a few minutes at the end gives a crisp, golden finish.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread Recipe enough for any gathering or cozy night in. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and so much fun to eat. Once you try it, it’s bound to become one of your favorite recipes to share over and over again.

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