Pull-Apart Sourdough Brie and Cranberry Bread

This Pull-Apart Sourdough Brie and Cranberry Bread is the ultimate appetizer that combines the tang of sourdough, the creaminess of melted brie, and the tartness of cranberry sauce. Perfect for the holidays or any special occasion, this dish will be a hit with family and friends. The best part is that it’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying, with gooey cheese and fresh, savory flavors. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

• 1 large round sourdough bread loaf
• Olive oil (or butter)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 wheel of brie, chopped or cubed (or preferred cheese)
• 1½ cups whole berry cranberry sauce
• Kosher salt, to taste

Preparation

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Bread

Slice the sourdough loaf horizontally and vertically to create a grid of 1-inch cubes, being careful not to cut all the way through the bottom crust.

Make the Herb oil/Butter

In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil (or butter), dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Season with a pinch of salt and stir until well combined.

Brush the Bread with Herb oil/Butter

Place the sliced bread on a baking sheet. Carefully brush the herb oil/butter mixture into the slits of the bread, making sure to get it deep inside the cuts.

Stuff the Bread

Fill each space in the bread with pieces of brie and spoonfuls of cranberry sauce.

Wrap and Bake

Wrap the bread loaf in foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey.

Serve

Unwrap the bread, place it on a serving platter, and serve hot. Enjoy this delicious, melty appetizer with family and friends!

History of Pull-Apart Bread

Pull-apart bread is a fun and casual way of serving bread that dates back to traditional European baking, particularly in countries like Italy and Germany. It combines the experience of tearing off chunks of bread with family and friends, making it a communal dish. The style of bread became more popular in the United States as a party appetizer, often filled with savory and sweet ingredients to cater to different tastes. The addition of cheese and fruit like cranberry provides a rich contrast of flavors, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.

Benefits of This Recipe

• Cheese: Brie is a great source of calcium and protein, essential for healthy bones and muscles.
• Cranberries: Rich in antioxidants, cranberries help boost your immune system and promote heart health.
• Sourdough: Known for its probiotic properties, sourdough is easier to digest compared to regular bread and can promote gut health.
• Herbs: Thyme and rosemary are packed with antioxidants and can offer anti-inflammatory benefits.

Formation of Flavors

This recipe blends savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. The brie, when melted, offers a smooth, creamy texture that complements the tartness of the cranberry sauce. The sourdough provides a hearty, slightly tangy base that ties everything together, while the herbs add an aromatic touch. This combination of flavors makes it a perfect dish for any occasion, from casual family dinners to holiday feasts.

Nutrition Facts

While this pull-apart bread is a decadent treat, it’s important to enjoy it in moderation. Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving (based on a loaf serving 8 people):

• Calories: 300-350 kcal
• Protein: 10-12g
• Fat: 20-25g (depending on whether you use butter or oil)
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Sugar: 8-10g (mainly from the cranberry sauce)

Conclusion

Pull-apart Sourdough Brie and Cranberry Bread is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, ideal for sharing with loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family meal, or celebrating the holidays, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of warm, melted brie, tangy cranberry sauce, and savory herbs in a fresh sourdough loaf is simply irresistible. It’s a dish that invites everyone to pull apart and enjoy together, making it not just a recipe, but a memorable experience.