Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread is a delicious and festive appetizer that combines gooey, melted brie cheese with sweet and tart cranberry sauce, all nestled within warm, fluffy bread. This crowd-pleasing dish is perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or any special occasion. It’s easy to prepare and is sure to impress your guests!

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of crusty bread (like French or Italian bread)
• 8 ounces brie cheese, cut into small wedges
• 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped (or thyme)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for added crunch)

Timing

Making Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 20-25 minutes for baking.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the Bread: Using a serrated knife, make vertical and horizontal cuts in the loaf of bread, creating a grid pattern. Be careful not to cut all the way through the bottom, so the loaf stays intact.

Step 2: Fill the Bread

1. Stuff the Bread: Gently pull apart the cuts and stuff each opening with a piece of brie cheese and a spoonful of cranberry sauce. Sprinkle with fresh rosemary and add nuts if using.
2. Season: Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the bread, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Bake

1. Wrap in Foil: Wrap the stuffed bread in aluminum foil to keep it moist while baking.
2. Bake: Place the wrapped bread on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread is golden.

Step 4: Serve

1. Cool Slightly: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
2. Pull Apart: Serve warm, allowing guests to pull apart the cheesy, cranberry-filled pieces.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread (per serving, based on 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	250
Protein	6g
Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	30g
Sugar	4g

Tips for Customization

• Different Cheeses: Try using other cheeses like goat cheese or a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Add Spices: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the cranberry sauce for a warm, festive flavor.
• Herbs: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme or sage for added depth of flavor.

Storage Instructions

For best results, enjoy the Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread fresh out of the oven. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore the cheese’s gooey texture.

Conclusion

Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread is a delightful and indulgent appetizer that’s perfect for any festive gathering. With its combination of creamy brie, tangy cranberry sauce, and warm, crusty bread, this dish is sure to be a hit at your next event!