There’s something undeniably comforting about the golden warmth of freshly baked bread, especially when it’s filled with gooey brie and punctuated by the tartness of cranberries. The other evening, I found myself craving a cozy treat that would impress my friends while being simple enough to whip up on a whim. That’s when I stumbled upon this incredible Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread recipe.
Imagine the satisfaction of pulling apart perfectly soft, yet crusty sourdough, revealing molten cheese and fruity bursts nestled within. It’s a dish that’s not only visually stunning but also delightful for the palate. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to a delicious snack, this pull-apart bread brings a touch of elegance to any occasion. And the best part? It’s just as easy to make as it is to enjoy! So, let’s dive into this warm, cheesy masterpiece that’s bound to become a favorite in your home.
Why is Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread irresistible?
Melt-in-your-mouth goodness: The combination of gooey brie, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans creates a mouthwatering experience.
Elegant yet simple: This show-stopping dish is easy enough for novice cooks, making it perfect for any home chef.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve it at gatherings or cozy nights in, and watch as friends and family reach for one more piece!
Versatile option: Enjoy it as an appetizer, snack, or alongside a warm bowl of soup.
Quick prep and bake: Whip this up in just 15-20 minutes of baking, allowing you to enjoy more quality time with loved ones.
Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread Ingredients
For the Bread
- Round loaf sourdough bread – This hearty bread keeps its form while allowing for sweet, melty goodness within.
For the Filling
- Butter – A rich base that enhances the flavors and ensures a perfectly golden crust.
- Raw pecans – Add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the creamy brie.
- Brown sugar – This sweetener caramelizes during baking, making each bite extra indulgent.
- Brie – The star ingredient, which melts beautifully to create that gooey texture everyone craves in a Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread.
- Dried cranberries – These morsels bring tartness and a pop of color, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
How to Make Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread
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Preheat oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures your bread will bake evenly and emerge golden brown and crispy.
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Cube the bread: Carefully slice the sourdough bread both horizontally and vertically to create 1-inch cubes, making sure not to cut all the way through. This keeps the loaf intact and ready for stuffing.
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Make the pecan crumble: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of butter, chopped pecans, and brown sugar. Use your hands to mix until the butter coats the pecans and forms a delightful crumble.
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Butter the loaf: Use the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to insert thin slices into the bread. This will infuse the bread with rich flavor as it bakes.
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Stuff the brie: Place the loaf on a baking sheet and gently stuff the brie cubes into the cuts of the bread, ensuring every crevice is filled with that cheesy goodness.
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Add cranberries and pecans: Sprinkle the dried cranberries and the pecan crumble generously over the stuffed bread. The mixture adds both texture and sweetness.
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Bake and serve: Transfer the loaf to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the brie is melted and gooey. Slice apart and serve immediately for the best experience!
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of honey before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread
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Bread choice matters: Ensure you use a sturdy sourdough loaf that can hold its shape while allowing gooey brie to ooze through during baking.
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Even cuts: When cubing the bread, make your cuts as even as possible to ensure each piece bakes uniformly, preventing burnt or undercooked sections.
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Mix thoroughly: When creating the pecan crumble, mix until the butter fully coats the nuts for a consistent texture—this enhances the overall flavor experience.
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Stuff generously: Don’t be shy with the brie and cranberry filling! The more you stuff, the more gooey, delicious bites you’ll have in your cranberry brie pull apart bread.
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Serve warm: This dish is at its best when served immediately after baking, as the brie will be perfectly melty and the bread delightfully crusty. Enjoy!
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread delights are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the bread up to 24 hours in advance by cubing it and storing it in an airtight container at room temperature—this helps maintain its crusty texture. Additionally, mix the pecan crumble (butter, pecans, and brown sugar) ahead of time and refrigerate it, as this will keep it fresh for up to 3 days. When ready to bake, simply stuff the prepared loaf with brie, cranberries, and crumble, then pop it in the oven as directed. This way, you can enjoy gooey, cheesy bliss without the last-minute rush!
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread
Room Temperature: Enjoy leftover cranberry brie pull apart bread at room temperature for up to 2 days, stored in a covered container to maintain freshness.
Fridge: If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven to restore its gooey texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, until melty and warm throughout, rediscovering its deliciousness!
Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor this delightful recipe to your taste buds and dietary needs!
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Nut-Free: Omit the pecans and try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a crunchy texture without nuts. They add a lovely earthy flavor, too!
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Sweet & Spicy: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the pecan crumble for a slight kick that beautifully contrasts with the sweetness.
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Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the butter before spreading it in the loaf for a fragrant, savory twist. Your kitchen will smell divine!
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Vegan Delight: Swap the brie for a plant-based cheese alternative and use vegan butter. It’s surprisingly satisfying while being completely dairy-free!
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Fruity Boost: Incorporate other dried fruits like apricots or figs alongside the cranberries to bring a mix of flavors and colors, enhancing both the taste and appearance.
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Caramelized Onions: Sauté some onions until caramelized and mix them with the pecans for a sweet and savory burst that pairs beautifully with the brie.
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Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a unique flavor profile—each will melt beautifully while lending its own character to the dish!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free bread option, ensuring your creamy filling remains delightful while catering to your dietary needs.
What to Serve with Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread?
Create the perfect cozy meal around this indulgent, cheesy delight that will leave your guests wanting more.
- Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing blend of greens with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the cheese beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts and carrots add color and robust flavor, balancing the sweet and savory notes.
- Creamy Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of soup complements the bread, allowing you to dip and savor each gooey bite in a comforting way.
- Charcuterie Board: Add an assortment of meats and cheeses to enhance the flavors and create a delightful grazing experience.
- Sparkling Apple Cider: The fruity, bubbly drink refreshes the palate and adds a cheerful touch to your gathering.
- Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey over the bread before serving enhances the sweetness of the cranberries and cuts through the richness.
- Chocolate Fondue: For dessert, a pot of warm chocolate with fruits and pretzels for dipping echoes the melty theme of the bread.
- Pinot Grigio: This crisp, white wine pairs effortlessly with the creamy brie and tart cranberry, making every bite more enjoyable.
- Baked Apples: Serve up warm baked apples with cinnamon and nuts as a sweet and seasonal dessert option that complements the bread perfectly.
- Herb Butter: A small dish of herbed butter offers an extra layer of flavor to slather on warm slices of the bread.
Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread Recipe FAQs
What kind of sourdough bread should I use?
Absolutely, I recommend using a round, sturdy sourdough loaf that has a good crust. This type of bread will hold its shape while the gooey brie melts inside each of those delicious cubes.
How should I store leftover cranberry brie pull apart bread?
For room temperature storage, keep your leftover cranberry brie pull apart bread in a covered container for up to 2 days. If you want to prolong its life, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheating in the oven will help restore its gooey texture and lovely crust!
Can I freeze cranberry brie pull apart bread?
You can definitely freeze this delicious dish! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then reheat to perfection.
How do I reheat frozen cranberry brie pull apart bread?
Once thawed, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the bread on a baking sheet, cover it with foil to prevent burning, and heat for about 10-15 minutes. This ensures the brie gets nice and melty while the bread warms up perfectly.
What if I have nut allergies?
No worries! You can simply omit the pecans from the recipe or substitute them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch without the allergenic risk. Your cranberry brie pull apart bread will still be delightful and delicious!
How do I know when my bread is done baking?
Keep an eye on the bread while it bakes! It typically takes about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the bread is golden brown, and the brie has melted out of the cuts, creating oozy goodness. Enjoy every last bite!
Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread: A Gooey Delight for All
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Carefully slice the sourdough bread both horizontally and vertically to create 1-inch cubes, making sure not to cut all the way through.
- In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of butter, chopped pecans, and brown sugar, mixing until fully coated.
- Use the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to insert thin slices into the bread.
- Stuff the brie cubes into the cuts of the bread.
- Sprinkle the dried cranberries and the pecan crumble generously over the stuffed bread.
- Transfer the loaf to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the brie is melted and gooey.