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Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread Bites

Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread Bites

Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread Bites are a festive and delicious appetizer that combines soft bread pockets filled with creamy brie cheese and tangy dried cranberries. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights, these golden-baked bites deliver a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and gooey textures that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 1 round pull-apart bread loaf or pre-cut bread balls (soft and suitable for baking)
  • 8 oz creamy mild brie cheese, rind removed and sliced
  • ½ cup dried cranberries
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Optional Add-ins and Garnishes

  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary or thyme, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for drizzle)
  • ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional for nutty addition)
  • Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spicy kick)
  • Fresh basil, sage, or oregano (optional alternative herbs)
  • Flaky sea salt for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread: Cut the bread loaf into bite-sized cubes without slicing all the way through so it remains intact, creating pockets perfect for filling that hold together while baking.
  2. Fill with Brie and Cranberries: Slice the brie into small pieces and tuck them into the cuts along with dried cranberries, distributing evenly throughout the loaf for consistent flavor in every bite.
  3. Brush with Butter and Season: Melt the butter and mix in finely chopped fresh herbs if using. Generously brush this butter-herb mixture all over the bread, ensuring each section is well-coated to achieve a golden, crispy finish.
  4. Bake to Gooey Perfection: Place the prepared loaf on a baking tray and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until the cheese melts and the bread crust turns golden and crisp.
  5. Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Use your hands or a fork to pull apart individual bites, enjoying the blend of warm brie and sweet cranberries.

Notes

  • Choose fresh, soft bread with a sturdy crust to prevent soggy bites.
  • Do not overfill with brie or cranberries to keep the loaf stable.
  • Remove brie rind for smoother melting and milder taste.
  • Add fresh herbs to melted butter just before brushing for best flavor.
  • Serve immediately while cheese is warm and gooey.
  • Use dried cranberries or pre-dry fresh cranberries to prevent sogginess.
  • Can be made gluten-free using gluten-free bread.
  • For best reheating, warm in oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes instead of microwave.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cranberry Brie, Pull-Apart Bread Bites, Holiday Appetizer, Party Snack, Melted Cheese Bread, Festive Snack