Pull-Apart Sourdough Brie and Cranberry Bread

Introduction

There’s something magical about gathering around a warm, cheesy dish that fills the air with delicious aromas. When I first made this Pull-Apart Sourdough Brie and Cranberry Bread, my family was absolutely delighted. The combination of gooey brie, tart cranberry sauce, and aromatic herbs nestled in soft, warm sourdough was a hit at our holiday gathering. Everyone loved pulling apart their own pieces, savoring the rich flavors with every bite. It’s the perfect blend of savory and sweet, making it an irresistible appetizer that is sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 1 large round sourdough bread loaf
• ½ cup (1 stick) butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 (16 oz) wheel of brie, chopped or cubed
• 1½ cups whole berry cranberry sauce
• Kosher salt, to taste

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Bread

2. Slice the Sourdough Loaf:

• Carefully slice the sourdough loaf horizontally and vertically to create a grid of 1-inch cubes. Be cautious not to cut all the way through the bottom crust, as you want the loaf to hold together.

Make the Herb Butter

3. Mix the Herb Butter:

• In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Add a pinch of kosher salt and stir until the mixture is well combined and fragrant.

Brush the Bread with Herb Butter

4. Apply the Herb Butter:

• Place the sliced bread on a baking sheet. Using a pastry brush, carefully spread the herb butter mixture deep into the slits of the bread, ensuring every nook is filled with that delicious flavor.

Stuff the Bread

5. Fill the Bread:

• Generously fill each space in the bread with pieces of brie and spoonfuls of cranberry sauce. Make sure to distribute the ingredients evenly for the best flavor.

Wrap and Bake

6. Bake the Bread:

• Wrap the bread loaf tightly in aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey, and the bread is warm throughout.

Serve

7. Enjoy:

• Carefully unwrap the bread and transfer it to a serving platter. Serve it hot, allowing your guests to pull apart their own pieces of this delicious appetizer.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8-10
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350 kcal
• Total Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugars: 3 g
• Protein: 8 g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve

• Serving Suggestions:
• Serve warm straight from the oven.
• Pair with a side of extra cranberry sauce for dipping.
• Offer a selection of crackers or fresh veggies for a full appetizer spread.
• Garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.
• Enjoy with a glass of red wine or sparkling cider.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary can enhance the flavor even more than dried.
2. Experiment with Cheeses: While brie is fantastic, you can try using camembert or a combination of cheeses for varied flavors.
3. Make Ahead: Prepare the bread and stuff it ahead of time, then wrap it tightly and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.
4. Customize Fillings: Add ingredients like caramelized onions or roasted garlic for additional depth.
5. Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the bread while it’s baking; oven times may vary.

Recipe Variations

• Sweet Version: Substitute the cranberry sauce with apple butter or a mix of figs and honey for a sweeter treat.
• Spicy Twist: Add a layer of jalapeño slices or spicy pepper jelly for those who enjoy some heat.
• Savory Additions: Mix in cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms with the cheese for added richness.

Serving Suggestions

• For Parties: This bread is a perfect centerpiece for any holiday gathering or party. Place it alongside a charcuterie board filled with meats, cheeses, and olives.
• As a Side Dish: Serve alongside soups or salads for a hearty, comforting meal.
• Picnic Treat: Pack it for a picnic—just reheat in a portable oven or enjoy it at room temperature.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be made ahead and frozen before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of bread?

• Yes! While sourdough works beautifully, other crusty breads like ciabatta or French bread can also be used.

1. Is it necessary to use fresh herbs?

• No, dried herbs work well too. However, fresh herbs add a vibrant flavor.

1. How do I know when the cheese is melted?

• The bread should be warm and the cheese gooey. You can check by gently pulling apart the bread.

1. Can I make this bread ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance and bake it right before serving.

1. What can I serve with this bread?

• Pair it with dips, salads, or other appetizers for a well-rounded spread.

1. Can I use a different cheese?

• Absolutely! Experiment with different soft cheeses or even a mix of cheeses.

1. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

1. Can I add meat to this recipe?

• Yes, adding chopped cooked bacon or prosciutto can give it a nice savory touch.

1. How long can I keep the leftovers?

• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for about 3 days.

1. Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
   • If using gluten-free bread, this recipe can be adapted for a gluten-free diet.

Conclusion

Pull-Apart Sourdough Brie and Cranberry Bread is not just an appetizer; it’s an experience. The combination of warm, buttery herbs and the creamy brie paired with the tart cranberry sauce creates a harmonious blend of flavors that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try, and watch it disappear in no time!

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