Description

This Cranberry Brie Baguette Pull-Apart Bread is a warm, gooey, festive appetizer perfect for holidays, parties, or cozy winter gatherings. Crisp baguette cubes hold creamy melted brie, tart cranberry sauce, and fresh herbs—creating the ideal balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. It’s visually impressive, easy to assemble, and guaranteed to disappear fast.

Servings

Serves: 6–8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes

Ingredients for

Cranberry Brie Baguette Pull-Apart Bread

For the Bread

• 1 large French baguette

• 8 oz (225g) brie cheese, cut into small cubes

• 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)

• 2 tbsp butter, melted

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped

• 1–2 tbsp honey (optional, for drizzling)

• Salt & pepper to taste

Optional Garnish

• Extra fresh herbs

• Orange zest

• Crushed pecans or walnuts

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the Baguette

   • Place the baguette on a baking sheet.

   • Using a serrated knife, cut deep diagonal slits across the baguette, about 1 inch apart.

   • Rotate the baguette and cut diagonal slits in the opposite direction, creating a diamond-shaped pattern.

   • Be careful not to cut all the way through.

3. Stuff the Brie

   • Insert small cubes of brie into the slits, pushing them down gently so they stay secure.

4. Add Cranberry Sauce

   • Spoon cranberry sauce into the slits, distributing evenly.

5. Brush with Butter & Oil

   • In a small bowl, mix melted butter with olive oil.

   • Brush or drizzle this over the entire baguette.

6. Add Herbs

   • Sprinkle fresh rosemary or thyme over the top.

   • Add a pinch of salt and pepper.

7. Bake

   • Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the brie is fully melted and the bread is crisp.

8. Finish & Serve

   • Drizzle honey on top if desired.

   • Add garnishes like herbs, nuts, or orange zest.

   • Serve warm and pull apart chunks by hand.

Notes

• If your brie has a thick rind, you can remove some (but not all) for smoother melting.

• Use a sturdy baguette; soft breads can get soggy.

• Cranberry sauce can be swapped for raspberry preserves or fig jam.

• This appetizer is best enjoyed immediately, but leftovers can be reheated.

Tips for Best Results

• Freeze the brie for 10 minutes before cutting: makes cubes easier to handle.

• Don’t skip the butter + oil mix—it prevents the bread from drying out.

• Place the baguette in a foil “nest” if you want softer edges.

• Add nuts for crunch and to balance the creaminess.

• Use freshly baked baguette for best texture.

Nutritional Information (Estimated per serving, 1/8 loaf)

• Calories: ~240

• Fat: 12g

• Saturated Fat: 6g

• Carbohydrates: 26g

• Sugars: 7g

• Protein: 8g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sodium: 330mg

Values will vary depending on bread size and amount of brie/cranberry used.

Health Benefits

• Brie provides protein and calcium.

• Cranberries offer antioxidants and vitamin C.

• Fresh herbs have anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting properties.

• Combines healthy elements with indulgence—perfect for moderation-friendly holiday enjoyment.

Q&A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes! Assemble the bread (without baking), wrap tightly, and refrigerate up to 6 hours. Bake when ready.

Q: Can I use a different cheese instead of brie?

A: Camembert, mozzarella, or triple-cream cheeses all work—choose one that melts well.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Wrap in foil and refrigerate up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F for 8–10 minutes.

Q: Can this be made gluten-free?

A: Absolutely—use a gluten-free baguette and follow the same steps.

Q: What can I serve it with?

A: It pairs well with holiday ham, turkey, charcuterie boards, salads, or mulled wine.