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.
- Author: Gloria
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
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)
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- Serving Size: 1-2 pieces (approx. 40g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Cranberry Brie, Pull-Apart Bread Bites, Holiday Appetizer, Party Snack, Melted Cheese Bread, Festive Snack