Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that combines the cozy tang of sourdough, the creamy richness of Brie, and the festive pop of cranberries, look no further than this Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread. It’s a magical combination where gooey cheese melts into chewy, buttery bread, all brightened by the sweet tartness of cranberries and the satisfying crunch of toasted nuts. This treat is perfect for sharing at any gathering or enjoying as a comforting snack that feels special and homey all at once.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from the tangy sourdough base providing a chewy texture, to the creamy Brie that melts beautifully, and the cranberries and nuts that add bursts of flavor and crunch.

• 1 large sourdough boule: The sturdy, flavorful backbone that holds all the delicious fillings together.
• 200g Brie cheese, cubed or sliced: Brings creamy, melty richness that’s utterly irresistible.
• ½ cup dried cranberries: Add sweet-tart bursts that brighten each bite.
• ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (toasted): Provide a crunchy contrast and a nutty depth.
• 2 tbsp butter, melted: Adds moistness and a buttery sheen that soaks into the bread.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: Enhances richness and helps carry flavors.
• 1 tbsp honey: Brings a touch of natural sweetness to balance savory elements.
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped: Infuses a subtle herbal note that complements the cheese and fruit.
• Sea salt flakes (optional): A sprinkle elevates all the flavors with a little savory pop.
• Extra honey or cranberry sauce for drizzling: Adds a luscious finish and extra flavor boost before serving.

How to Make Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Loaf

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grab your sourdough boule and, using a sharp knife, carefully cut a crosshatch pattern deep into the bread. The key here is to slice in a way that creates plenty of pockets for the fillings but doesn’t cut all the way through the bottom, so the loaf stays intact while baking. This step sets the stage for all the beautiful flavors to meld together perfectly.

Step 2: Stuff the Bread

Now for the fun part—stuffing! Tuck cubes or slices of Brie cheese into every slit you made, followed by scattering dried cranberries and toasted walnuts or pecans throughout. This layering ensures every pull-apart piece gets a balanced hit of creamy cheese, fruity sweetness, and crunchy texture. It’s like building little flavor nests inside the bread.

Step 3: Brush on the Glaze

Whisk together your melted butter, olive oil, and honey to create a luscious glaze. Generously brush this mixture all over the bread, making sure it trickles down into the cuts as well. This glaze not only adds a shiny, golden finish but also keeps the bread moist and infuses it with subtle sweetness and richness. Trust me, this little extra step transforms the loaf.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Wrap the loaf loosely with foil to trap in moisture, then bake for 15 minutes. This allows the Brie to start melting gently and the bread to warm through. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 8 to 10 minutes. This final blast crisps up the top just right and lets the cheese melt fully and ooze out a little, making it irresistible to pull apart.

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped rosemary or thyme on top along with a light pinch of sea salt flakes if you like a savory contrast. Give the bread a finishing drizzle of extra honey or warm cranberry sauce to highlight the fruity notes and add a glossy sheen. The aroma and look at this point are simply mouthwatering.

How to Serve Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme not only add fantastic aroma but also a lovely green contrast to the warm golden bread. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt enhances every bite by cutting through the richness of the Brie and balancing the sweetness of cranberries and honey. A quick drizzle of honey or cranberry sauce right before serving elevates both the presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

This Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread is hearty enough to be a star, but it pairs beautifully with lighter sides like crisp green salads or roasted vegetables. For a festive spread, consider serving with charcuterie, fresh fruit, or a bowl of warm soup to create a complete, cozy meal that guests will rave about.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the loaf family-style in the center of the table for a gorgeous communal experience. For casual entertaining, place small plates and tongs so guests can pull apart their own pieces. You can also slice sections and toast them lightly, topping with extra Brie and drizzled honey for elegant crostini that impress at any party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which might be a rare occurrence!), wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil and keep it at room temperature for up to two days. This helps maintain its softness without drying out the crust. Just be sure to enjoy it quickly for the best texture and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the stuffed loaf before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil, then place it in the freezer for up to a month. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and then proceed with the baking steps. This is great for prepping ahead for gatherings or last-minute guests.

Reheating

To bring leftover Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread back to life, place it in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for 10 to 15 minutes. Covering it loosely with foil prevents the crust from getting too hard while warming the cheese inside. This way, it tastes nearly as delicious as fresh from the oven.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of Brie?

Absolutely! While Brie melts gorgeously and pairs perfectly with cranberries, you can try Camembert or a mild goat cheese for different flavor profiles. Just make sure it’s a soft cheese that melts easily to keep that wonderful gooey texture inside the bread.

Do I have to use dried cranberries?

Dried cranberries offer a concentrated sweet-tart pop that complements the creamy cheese nicely, but you could substitute with dried cherries or apricots for a different fruity twist. Fresh cranberries aren’t recommended as they can be too tart and watery for this recipe.

Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

To adapt for dairy-free diets, swap the Brie for a plant-based creamy cheese alternative and use vegan butter. Keep in mind the texture and flavor might vary slightly, but the overall concept of pull-apart bread with fruity and nutty stuffing will still be delicious.

How do I ensure the bread stays soft inside?

The key is the foil wrap during the first part of baking — this traps steam and moisture, preventing the bread from drying out. Also, brushing the melted butter and honey glaze helps keep the crust tender and flavorful.

Is it okay to prepare the bread the day before baking?

Yes! You can assemble the stuffed loaf the day before and keep it refrigerated, tightly wrapped. Just bring it to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking and melting of the cheese.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about gathering around a warm Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread — it’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures that feels festive yet comforting. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or sneaking a few pieces for yourself, this recipe turns simple ingredients into a memorable moment. I hope you try it soon and discover just how deliciously addictive this pull-apart bread can be!