Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Name: Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large boule; 1/2 cup melted butter; 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves; 2 tsp freshly chopped rosemary; Kosher salt and black pepper; 8 oz brie cheese, cut into thin strips; 15 oz can whole-berry cranberry sauce

Published: November 5, 2025

by lara

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal prep time and simple ingredients, making it accessible for cooks of all levels.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy brie and tangy cranberry sauce creates a delicious contrast that will have everyone coming back for more.
Versatile Occasions: Perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or casual get-togethers; this dish fits right in at any event.
Shareable Delight: The pull-apart nature encourages sharing and makes it a fun interactive appetizer for your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking experience and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Sharp serrated knife
Large baking sheet
Parchment paper
Small mixing bowl
Whisk or fork

Importance of Each Tool

Sharp serrated knife: Makes cutting through the bread easier while maintaining its structure.
Large baking sheet: Provides ample space for the bread to bake evenly without crowding.
Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup after baking.

Ingredients

This pull-apart bread—stuffed with cheesy brie and sweet cranberry sauce—is a must-have holiday appetizer.

For the Bread

1 large boule
1/2 c. (1 stick) melted butter
2 tsp. fresh thyme leaves
2 tsp. freshly chopped rosemary
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper

For the Filling

1 (8-oz.) wheel Brie, cut into thin strips
1 (15-oz.) can whole-berry cranberry sauce

How to Make Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Boule

Using a sharp serrated knife, make crosshatch cuts in the boule about an inch apart in both directions. Be careful not to cut all the way through the bottom.

Step 3: Mix the Herb Butter

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, thyme, rosemary, kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 4: Brush the Boule

Brush the butter mixture generously over the boule, ensuring it seeps into all the crosshatches for maximum flavor.

Step 5: Stuff with Cheese and Sauce

Stuff each crosshatch carefully with strips of brie and spoonfuls of cranberry sauce. Make sure you fill them well for a tasty bite.

Step 6: Wrap and Bake

Wrap the entire boule in foil to keep it moist during baking. Place it on your prepared baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melty and the bread is warm.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before unwrapping. Serve warm so that guests can pull apart their pieces easily!

Enjoy this delicious Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread as a highlight at your next holiday gathering!

How to Serve Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread is a delightful appetizer that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors. Whether for a festive gathering or a cozy get-together, here are some serving suggestions to make your dish shine.

Pair with Fresh Herbs

Thyme Sprigs: Garnish the bread with fresh thyme sprigs for an aromatic touch.
Rosemary Branches: Place rosemary branches around the bread for a rustic presentation.

Accompany with Dips

Honey: Drizzle honey over the warm bread for added sweetness.
Balsamic Reduction: A tangy balsamic reduction complements the flavors perfectly.

Add Seasonal Fruits

Sliced Pears: Fresh pear slices add a juicy contrast to the cheesy brie.
Cranberry Relish: Serve with cranberry relish for an extra burst of flavor.

Serve with Cheese Board

Cheddar and Gouda: Include other cheeses like sharp cheddar or creamy gouda on your cheese board.
Nuts and Dried Fruits: Incorporate nuts and dried fruits for texture and variety.

How to Perfect Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

To achieve the best results with your Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread, follow these helpful tips. They will ensure your bread turns out perfectly every time.

Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh herbs and high-quality brie for better flavor.
Don’t Overstuff: Avoid overfilling the crosshatches to prevent spills during baking.
Use Room Temperature Brie: Allow brie to soften before slicing; it melts more easily.
Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is properly preheated for even baking.
Wrap Tightly in Foil: Wrapping well keeps moisture in and helps the cheese melt evenly.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Pairing side dishes with your Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement this delicious appetizer.

Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the bread.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and flavor to your spread.
Stuffed Mushrooms: Flavorful stuffed mushrooms make a perfect bite-sized addition.
Caramelized Onions: Sweet caramelized onions provide a delightful contrast to the brie.
Garlic Breadsticks: Warm garlic breadsticks offer another comforting element to your table.
Fruit Platter: A selection of seasonal fruits adds freshness and color alongside the bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will help you create the perfect Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread. Here are some tips:

Overbaking the bread: This can lead to a dry texture. Keep an eye on your bread while baking and remove it once the cheese is melty, about 20 minutes.
Not seasoning adequately: Skipping salt and pepper can make your dish bland. Ensure you season the butter mixture generously for maximum flavor.
Ignoring the crosshatch technique: Not slicing deep enough can prevent the cheese and cranberry sauce from penetrating. Make sure to cut all the way through without cutting the bottom.
Using cold ingredients: Cold Brie will not melt properly. Allow it to come to room temperature before using for a smoother texture.
Forgetting to wrap in foil: Skipping this step may lead to uneven cooking. Wrapping ensures even heat distribution, making it warm and toasty throughout.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
Label with the date for easy reference.

Reheating Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat wrapped in foil for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds on medium power. Be cautious as this can make bread chewy if overheated.
Stovetop: Use a skillet with a lid on low heat, flipping occasionally, until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with other soft cheeses like goat cheese or camembert for a unique flavor twist.

How do I ensure my bread doesn’t get soggy?

Make sure your cranberry sauce isn’t overly liquidy. You can also bake it uncovered during the last few minutes for extra crispiness.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare everything in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes of baking time.

What occasions are best for serving Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread?

This delicious appetizer is perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or cozy family dinners. Its festive look makes it a standout dish!

Final Thoughts

Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread is an enticing appetizer that brings warmth and flavor to any gathering. With its gooey cheese and sweet cranberry filling, it’s hard to resist! Feel free to customize by adding nuts or different herbs based on your taste preferences—this recipe is versatile enough for any palate!

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