Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread Recipe

Irresistible Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread Recipe

Sinking your teeth into a warm, gooey cranberry brie sourdough pull-apart bread that melts with rich, tangy flavors.

Soft, pillowy layers promise a delightful experience for every bread lover.

sourdough signature tang weaves perfectly with creamy brie and tart cranberries, creating a symphony of textures.

Rustic and elegant, this recipe combines simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Fresh from the oven, each golden piece invites you to pull and savor its delectable layers.

Comfort meets sophistication in this stunning bread that transforms an ordinary moment into a culinary celebration.

You won’t be able to resist sharing this irresistible creation with everyone around the table.

Why You’ll Be Obsessed With Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread

  • Create Irresistible Flavor Combinations: Cranberry and brie blend deliciously, offering a perfect balance of tangy sweetness and creamy richness that transforms ordinary sourdough into an extraordinary appetizer.
  • Master Impressive Pull-Apart Technique: The crosshatch cutting method makes the bread look professionally crafted while allowing easy serving, letting guests pull apart warm, cheesy pieces with minimal effort.
  • Elevate Simple Ingredients: Basic sourdough bread becomes a gourmet experience with just a few strategic additions like herb-infused butter, fresh herbs, and high-quality cheese, proving culinary magic happens through smart ingredient layering.
  • Quick and Low-Effort Entertaining Solution: Ready in under 40 minutes, this recipe requires minimal preparation skills, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings, holiday parties, or casual weekend get-togethers where you want maximum impact with minimal stress.

Everything Needed For Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread

Bread Base:
  • Sourdough Loaf: A tangy, rustic bread perfect for pulling apart and stuffing with delicious fillings. Choose a fresh, crusty loaf with good structure.
Cheese and Filling:
  • Brie, Cranberry Sauce: A creamy, soft cheese paired with sweet-tart cranberry sauce creates a delightful flavor combination. Select a ripe, room-temperature Brie and a high-quality cranberry sauce.
Herb and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Butter, Rosemary, Thyme, Garlic Powder: Melted butter infused with aromatic herbs adds richness and depth to the bread. Fresh herbs provide the most vibrant flavor, but dried herbs work well too.

How To Make Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread Easily

Step 1: Create Delicious Crosshatch Cuts

Grab your trusty sourdough loaf and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. With a sharp serrated knife, carefully slice a beautiful crosshatch pattern across the bread, creating one-inch squares. Remember to keep the bottom of the loaf intact – we want a connected masterpiece that pulls apart with ease.

Step 2: Stuff With Cheesy Goodness

Gently separate the bread squares, creating little pockets of potential. Tuck creamy Brie slices into each crevice, making sure every nook gets some cheesy love. Spoon vibrant cranberry sauce between the cuts, spreading it evenly for a burst of tangy sweetness in every bite.

Step 3: Create Aromatic Herb Butter

In a small mixing bowl, transform melted butter into a flavor explosion:
  • Fresh rosemary leaves
  • Delicate thyme sprigs
  • Zesty garlic powder

Whisk these ingredients together, creating a fragrant herb-infused butter that will make mouths water.

Step 4: Drizzle And Prepare

Pour the herbed butter generously over the bread, allowing it to cascade into every crack and crevice. The liquid gold will seep through, promising incredible flavor in each pull-apart piece.

Step 5: Bake To Perfection

Wrap the loaded sourdough loaf loosely in aluminum foil, creating a cozy package. Slide into a preheated oven at 350F (175C). Bake for 15 minutes, then unwrap and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until the bread turns golden and the cheese becomes irresistibly bubbly.

Step 6: Serve With Celebration

Sprinkle extra fresh herbs on top for a pop of color and additional aroma. Bring the bread to the table and watch as friends and family eagerly pull apart the crispy, cheesy, cranberry-filled sections. This isn’t just bread – it’s an experience of comfort and joy.

Helpful Hints For Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread

  • Slice with Precision: Use a sharp serrated knife to create the crosshatch pattern, ensuring clean cuts without tearing the bread's structure.
  • Cheese Distribution Trick: Gently separate bread squares before adding Brie slices to maximize cheese coverage and ensure even melting throughout the loaf.
  • Flavor Boost Technique: Infuse herb butter with fresh rosemary and thyme for a more intense aromatic experience that complements the cranberry and cheese.
  • Foil Protection Strategy: Loosely wrapping the bread during initial baking prevents burning while allowing the cheese to melt perfectly and keeping the bread moist.
  • Dietary Swap Option: Replace traditional Brie with dairy-free cheese alternatives for a vegan-friendly version that maintains the recipe's delicious pull-apart concept.

How To Keep Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread Fresh

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Wrap the bread tightly with plastic wrap to prevent moisture loss and maintain its delicious texture.
  • Reheat in Oven: Warm the bread in a preheated 350F (175C) oven for 10-12 minutes. Cover loosely with foil to prevent excessive browning and ensure the cheese melts evenly without drying out the bread.
  • Microwave Option: Reheat individual portions for 20-30 seconds on medium power. Be cautious to avoid overheating, which can make the bread tough and rubbery.
  • Quick Tip: For best results, consume within 1-2 days to enjoy maximum flavor and texture of the sourdough and melted Brie.

What To Pair With Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: Uncork a refreshing Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the rich, creamy Brie and tangy cranberry sauce. These light, acidic wines cut through the bread's buttery herbal notes, creating a balanced flavor experience.
  • Match with Sparkling Cider: Grab a chilled sparkling apple or pear cider to enhance the bread's savory-sweet profile. The bubbly, slightly sweet beverage perfectly offsets the herb-infused butter and melted cheese.
  • Serve with Autumn Salad: Create a light mixed green salad with candied walnuts, goat cheese, and a light vinaigrette. The fresh, crisp salad provides a delightful contrast to the warm, gooey pull-apart bread.
  • Complement with Charcuterie Board: Arrange a selection of cured meats like prosciutto, salami, and a few additional soft cheeses. This spread adds depth and variety to the bread's rich flavors, making it a stunning appetizer or party dish.

Fun Variations For Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread

  • Savory Mediterranean Mix: Replace cranberry sauce with sun-dried tomato tapenade and swap Brie for crumbled feta cheese. Sprinkle oregano and basil into the herb butter for a zesty Mediterranean flair.
  • Caramelized Onion Sensation: Substitute cranberry sauce with deeply caramelized onion jam and use Gruyère cheese instead of Brie. Add thyme and cracked black pepper to the melted butter for rich, complex flavors.
  • Spicy Southwest Explosion: Swap cranberry sauce with roasted green chile salsa and use pepper jack cheese. Mix chipotle powder and cumin into the butter for a bold, smoky kick.
  • Apple Cheddar Comfort: Replace cranberry sauce with thin apple slices and sharp cheddar cheese. Blend sage and nutmeg into the butter for a cozy, autumn-inspired version that celebrates seasonal ingredients.

FAQs About Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread

  • What type of sourdough bread works best for this recipe?

A rustic, dense sourdough boule works perfectly. Look for a round loaf with a sturdy crust that can hold its shape when cut and stuffed with cheese and cranberry sauce.

  • Can I use fresh or frozen cranberry sauce?

Either works great! Homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce will give delicious results. Just ensure it’s not too runny to prevent soggy bread.

  • Is this recipe good for holiday gatherings?

Absolutely! This pull-apart bread is a showstopper appetizer that’s super interactive and crowd-pleasing. Guests love pulling apart the cheesy, herby pieces and it looks impressive on a festive table.

  • How do I know when the bread is perfectly baked?

Look for golden brown edges, fully melted and bubbly brie, and a crispy exterior. The bread should be warm throughout and the cheese should be gooey when you pull apart the pieces.

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Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread Recipe

Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread Recipe


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4.6 from 10 reviews

  • Total Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Festive cranberry brie sourdough pull-apart bread brings holiday cheer to dinner tables with its irresistible blend of tangy and creamy flavors. Warm, cheesy layers invite guests to indulge in this crowd-pleasing appetizer that promises joy in every delicious bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 round sourdough loaf (1 lb / 450 g)
  • 8 ounces (225 g) brie cheese, sliced
  • ½ cup (120 g) cranberry sauce

Herb and Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried rosemary)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Binding Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Prepare the bread foundation by positioning the sourdough loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet, creating a precise crosshatch pattern with a sharp serrated knife, carefully slicing 1-inch squares without penetrating the bottom crust.
  2. Delicately separate the bread segments, nestling creamy Brie slices into each intricate cut, then generously distribute vibrant cranberry sauce throughout the crevices, ensuring an even, tantalizing coverage.
  3. Craft a fragrant herb-infused butter by blending melted butter with aromatic rosemary, earthy thyme, and pungent garlic powder, then lovingly drizzle this luxurious mixture over the prepared loaf, allowing it to seep deeply into the bread’s architectural cuts.
  4. Envelop the seasoned loaf loosely in aluminum foil, transforming it into a steamy parcel within the preheated 350°F (175°C) oven, and bake for an initial 15-minute cycle to develop initial warmth and flavor melding.
  5. Unveil the foil, exposing the bread to direct heat, and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the exterior achieves a golden, crisp texture and the Brie reaches a molten, bubbling perfection.
  6. Remove from the oven, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and present the pull-apart bread while still radiating warmth, inviting guests to tear into its decadent, cheese-laden segments.

Notes

  • Choose a day-old sourdough loaf for better texture and easier cutting, as slightly stale bread holds its shape more effectively during the crosshatch technique.
  • Opt for a soft Brie cheese that melts smoothly, ensuring each bread square gets a creamy, rich coating without becoming too runny.
  • Consider using homemade or high-quality cranberry sauce with whole berries for a more vibrant and complex flavor profile that complements the cheese and herbs.
  • Experiment with different herb combinations like sage, parsley, or chives to personalize the butter and create unique taste variations that suit your preference.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
Isabella Rossi

Isabella Rossi

Founder & Culinary Content Creator

Expertise

Recipe Development​, Traditional Irish and European Cuisines, Food Styling and Photography, Culinary Education​

Education

Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT) – School of Culinary Arts and Food Technology

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern cooking techniques, kitchen management, and menu development.​

Ballymaloe Cookery School

  • Program: 12-Week Certificate Course
  • Focus: Intensive, hands-on experience emphasizing farm-to-table cooking and sustainable practices.​

Liam is the voice behind many of Craft Meats’ most flavorful features. With roots in Dublin’s smoky barbecue scene and a culinary degree from the Dublin Institute of Technology, he brings time-tested cooking techniques to life. 

His training at Ballymaloe Cookery School sharpened his farm-to-table approach, giving him a deep respect for every ingredient he writes about.

He’s not about overcomplicating the process, just helping you cook meat that’s worth talking about. When he’s not writing or grilling, he’s out foraging or nerding out on regional spice blends to add to his next recipe.

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