The Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread is a holiday favorite that combines savory and sweet in a perfectly shareable form. Each bite is a mix of creamy Brie, tangy cranberries, and the aromatic goodness of rosemary and thyme, all wrapped up in a golden, toasty loaf.
Ideal for any festive gathering, this dish is quick to prepare yet impressive enough to be the centerpiece of your holiday table. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, this pull-apart bread is a surefire way to spread holiday cheer.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 large round loaf of bread
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 8 ounces Brie cheese, cut into small slices
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with foil.
- Using a serrated knife, slice the bread from the top in diagonal 1-inch diamonds, cutting almost to the bottom but not through.
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, honey, rosemary, thyme, pepper, and salt.
- Gently pull apart the cuts in the bread and drizzle half of the butter mixture evenly into the openings.
- Stuff the cuts with slices of Brie cheese and dried cranberries, ensuring even distribution.
- Place the loaf on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle the remaining butter mixture over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the Brie is melted and the bread is golden and toasty.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal per serving | Servings: 8 servings
About Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread
Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread is a delightful and visually stunning appetizer that combines sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors into one irresistible dish. It’s a quintessential holiday recipe that impresses both in taste and presentation. Made with a round loaf of bread, creamy Brie cheese, dried cranberries, and a buttery herb glaze, this recipe is easy to prepare and ideal for festive occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Entertaining: This pull-apart bread is an elegant appetizer that’s simple to share, making it ideal for holiday parties, family gatherings, or any festive occasion.
- Balanced Flavors: The rich creaminess of Brie pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy cranberries, while fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme add a burst of freshness.
- Quick and Easy: With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe delivers gourmet results without hours in the kitchen.
- Customizable: You can adapt the recipe by adding other ingredients like nuts (e.g., pecans or walnuts) for crunch, or swap dried cranberries for fresh ones if you prefer a tart flavor.
- Impressive Presentation: The crisscross cuts in the bread create a pull-apart masterpiece that looks as good as it tastes.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Pull Apart Bread
- Bread Selection: Use a sturdy, round loaf like sourdough or French bread. It needs to hold its shape while baking and accommodate the cheese and cranberries in the cuts.
- Prepping the Cuts: Be careful not to cut all the way through the bread. Leaving the bottom intact keeps the loaf together for a neat presentation.
- Stuffing: Don’t skimp on the Brie and cranberries. Stuff generously for maximum flavor in every bite.
- Butter Mixture: For even coverage, drizzle the butter mixture slowly and use a spoon to ensure it seeps into all the cuts.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the bread warm from the oven, so the Brie remains gooey and luscious. Pair it with a glass of white wine or champagne for a sophisticated touch.
Recipe Variations
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and nuttiness.
- Savory Spin: Include caramelized onions or garlic for a deeper savory profile.
- Sweet and Tangy: Drizzle with a balsamic reduction or add a sprinkle of orange zest for added complexity.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free bread loaf to accommodate dietary preferences.
Pairing Ideas
This Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread pairs beautifully with:
- Drinks: Sparkling wine, Chardonnay, or a light Pinot Noir.
- Accompaniments: A fresh green salad or a charcuterie board filled with cured meats, nuts, and fresh fruit.
Occasions to Serve
- Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner appetizer
- New Year’s Eve party snack
- Potluck or Friendsgiving gatherings
- Romantic date nights with a cozy meal
- Movie nights for an indulgent, shareable treat
The History and Inspiration Behind Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread
This recipe draws inspiration from classic holiday flavors that evoke warmth, comfort, and celebration. Brie cheese has been a staple in French cuisine for centuries, known for its creamy texture and mild flavor that pairs well with sweet or savory ingredients. Cranberries, often associated with Thanksgiving and Christmas, add a festive touch to any dish. Combining these two ingredients with rustic bread creates a dish that feels both elegant and accessible.
Pull-apart bread recipes have gained popularity due to their interactive nature, making them perfect for communal dining. This specific version elevates the concept with a seasonal flair, blending the buttery richness of Brie with the tart sweetness of cranberries and the herbaceous aroma of rosemary and thyme.
Nutritional Highlights
While this is an indulgent appetizer, it still offers some nutritional benefits:
- Brie Cheese: A good source of protein and calcium, offering creamy decadence without overwhelming richness.
- Dried Cranberries: Packed with antioxidants and natural sweetness, they provide a pop of flavor while being a healthier alternative to sugary toppings.
- Herbs (Rosemary and Thyme): These fresh herbs not only enhance the flavor but also add anti-inflammatory and digestive health properties.
- Bread: Depending on your choice of loaf, it can offer fiber and carbohydrates for energy, especially if you opt for whole-grain bread.
Tips for Serving and Storing
- Serving Suggestions:
- Serve immediately after baking while the Brie is gooey and warm. Arrange the bread on a wooden board for a rustic presentation.
- Offer small forks or toothpicks to make it easier for guests to pull apart pieces without messy hands.
- Pair it with a light cranberry or apple cider dip for extra flavor.
- Make-Ahead Option:
- You can assemble the bread a few hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving to ensure freshness.
- Storing Leftovers:
- Wrap any leftovers in foil and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes to restore the crispiness and melt the cheese.
How to Customize the Recipe
If you’d like to put your own spin on this dish, here are some fun variations:
- Sweet and Savory Blend: Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup over the top for a sweeter profile.
- Add a Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, or slivered almonds over the top before baking.
- Fresh Fruit Twist: Replace dried cranberries with thinly sliced fresh figs or apples for a unique flavor combination.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or drizzle with chili-infused honey for a hint of heat.
Ideal Settings for This Recipe
This Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread shines in many settings:
- Formal Gatherings: Its elegant appearance makes it perfect for holiday dinners or sophisticated parties.
- Casual Get-Togethers: The pull-apart nature of the bread makes it ideal for relaxed family gatherings, game nights, or potlucks.
- Gift Idea: Assemble the bread, wrap it in foil, and give it as a ready-to-bake gift to friends or neighbors.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Serrated Knife: Essential for cutting the bread without tearing it apart.
- Pastry Brush: Helps evenly distribute the buttery herb mixture over the bread.
- Baking Sheet with Foil: Keeps the bread in place and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Mixing Bowl: To prepare the butter and herb glaze.
Why This Recipe is a Crowd-Pleaser
The combination of flavors and textures crusty bread, creamy cheese, tart cranberries, and fragrant herbs—hits all the right notes. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet balanced, making it a guaranteed hit at any gathering. Plus, the visual appeal of the pull-apart bread, with its golden crust and colorful fillings, adds a wow factor that’s perfect for social media posts or holiday table-scapes.
Conclusion
This Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining rich, gooey brie cheese with the tart sweetness of cranberries and the comforting texture of freshly baked bread. Its beautiful presentation makes it a festive centerpiece for any holiday table, while its warm, savory flavors are sure to delight your guests.
Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a holiday party, or simply indulging in a cozy winter evening treat, this recipe is easy to prepare yet feels luxurious. Serve it warm, and watch as your loved ones pull apart pieces, savoring every cheesy, cranberry-infused bite. It’s a recipe that’s as delightful to make as it is to enjoy!