Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread

Introduction

Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread is a show-stopping appetizer perfect for any gathering or holiday celebration. This warm, gooey, and slightly tangy dish features a round sourdough loaf stuffed with creamy Brie cheese and tart cranberry sauce, all brought together with a savory thyme-garlic butter drizzle. Easy to prepare and utterly irresistible, it’s the ideal dish to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Overview of the Recipe

This recipe transforms simple sourdough bread into a masterpiece bursting with flavors and textures. The crusty bread provides a sturdy base, while the pockets of melted Brie ooze decadence. The cranberry sauce adds a burst of sweetness balanced by the herbaceous thyme-garlic butter, making every bite a celebration of holiday flavors.

History and Origin

Pull-apart bread, also known as monkey bread, has its roots in communal dining traditions where meals are shared by tearing off pieces of bread. Over time, variations emerged, incorporating sweet and savory fillings. The pairing of Brie cheese with cranberry sauce reflects a classic French influence, combining rich dairy with fruit preserves. This fusion fits perfectly into festive gatherings, making it a modern favorite.

Ingredients

To create this indulgent dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 large round loaf of sourdough bread
• 8 oz Brie cheese, cut into small cubes
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to prepare the Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread:

1. Preheat the Oven

• Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.

2. Prepare the Bread

• Place the sourdough loaf on the baking sheet.
• Using a serrated knife, cut the bread into a crosshatch pattern, creating 1-inch slices. Be careful not to cut all the way through to the bottom.
• The crosshatch pattern creates pockets that will hold the cheese and cranberry sauce.

3. Add the Cheese and Cranberry Sauce

• Gently stuff the cut sections of the bread with small cubes of Brie cheese, ensuring even distribution.
• Spoon small amounts of cranberry sauce into the same pockets, pairing it with the Brie.

4. Make the Butter Mixture

• In a small bowl, combine:
  • Melted butter
  • Garlic powder
  • Thyme leaves
• Stir well until fully blended.

5. Drizzle the Butter Mixture

• Slowly pour the butter mixture over the bread, focusing on the crevices to ensure the flavors seep into every part of the loaf.

6. Bake the Bread

• Cover the loaf with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning while the cheese melts.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the top to turn golden and crispy.

7. Garnish and Serve

• Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool for a minute or two.
• Sprinkle fresh rosemary or thyme leaves on top for an aromatic finish.
• Serve warm and enjoy pulling apart this gooey, flavorful bread.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Perfect Pairings

• Beverages: Pair with hot apple cider, spiced tea, or a sparkling juice for a festive touch.
• Accompaniments: Serve alongside a charcuterie board featuring chicken ham, nuts, and dried fruits.

Best Occasions to Serve

• Holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving or Christmas.
• Brunches and family dinners.
• A cozy night in with friends or a movie night snack.

Variations of the Recipe

1. Sweet Twist
   • Substitute cranberry sauce with a fruit compote like raspberry or apricot.
   • Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for a dessert-like version.
2. Savory Boost
   • Incorporate caramelized onions or a sprinkle of shredded chicken ham for a heartier version.
3. Herbal Infusion
   • Experiment with different herbs such as oregano or basil for a Mediterranean touch.

Health Benefits Notes

This dish balances indulgence with nutritional value:

• Sourdough Bread: Naturally fermented, sourdough offers probiotics that promote gut health.
• Brie Cheese: A good source of calcium and protein, though high in fat, so moderation is key.
• Cranberries: Packed with antioxidants and vitamin C, cranberries add a nutritious touch.
• Herbs: Thyme and rosemary provide anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the bread with cheese and cranberry sauce, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate. Drizzle the butter mixture and bake when ready to serve.

2. What if I don’t have sourdough bread?

You can use any dense bread like ciabatta or boule, as long as it holds its shape when cut.

3. Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely! Camembert or a mild Gouda can be used as alternatives to Brie.

Conclusion

Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread is a surefire way to elevate your entertaining game. With its simple preparation and complex flavors, this dish brings elegance and comfort to the table. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread

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• Author: Wendy Balderas
• Total Time: 30-40 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

This Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread is a delightful appetizer that combines gooey Brie, tangy cranberry sauce, and herb-garlic butter. Perfect for holidays or special occasions, it’s easy to make, delicious, and visually stunning.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 large round loaf of sourdough bread
• 8 oz Brie cheese, cubed
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

• Preheat the Oven
  Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Prepare the Bread
  Slice the sourdough loaf in a crosshatch pattern, cutting 1-inch slices without going through the bottom.
• Add Cheese and Cranberry Sauce
  Stuff Brie cubes and cranberry sauce into the cuts of the bread evenly.
• Prepare Butter Mixture
  Mix melted butter, garlic powder, and thyme. Drizzle over the bread.
• Bake
  Cover the bread with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes. Uncover and bake another 5-10 minutes until golden and crispy.
• Garnish and Serve
  Sprinkle with fresh herbs, serve warm, and enjoy.

Notes

• For a sweeter option, use a fruit compote like raspberry instead of cranberry sauce.
• Substitute thyme with oregano or basil for a unique flavor twist.
• Prep the bread ahead, refrigerate, and bake fresh when needed.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-30 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American-French fusion

Nutrition

• Calories: ~250 kcal
• Sugar: ~6 g
• Sodium: ~250 mg
• Fat: ~12 g
• Carbohydrates: ~24 g
• Fiber: ~2 g
• Protein: ~8 g

Keywords: Brie pull-apart bread, cranberry bread appetizer, festive pull-apart bread, sourdough appetizer bread