Savory melted cheese with sweet leftover cranberry sauce mixed together in this bread appetizer makes the perfect holiday treat. Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread is a decadent option for using up every last bit of the traditional Thanksgiving sauce.
To make a gourmet pull-apart bread version, full of flavor, use this maple bourbon cranberry sauce recipe and this cinnamon roasted pecans recipe.
Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread
As slowly wake from a deep slumber I always soak in the morning after Thanksgiving. The hustle to prepare is over and quietness has laid a thick blanket over the day.
Maybe I’ll have a cup of coffee for breakfast and perhaps a slice of pumpkin pie. One thing is certain though and that is the day will be filled with delicious leftovers from the day before.
Usually, I shy away from cranberry sauce being slightly timid of the canned gelatinous kind, but this year I tried something different. This year I made my own version of cranberry sauce and opened my eyes to new delicious and fresh flavors.
How to Slice the Bread
To slice the bread start cutting at the middle side. Slice almost all the way through but stopping about 1/2 inch from the bottom. Make the next slice 1 1/2 inches over and continue until you reach the edge. Turn the bread and cut diagonally to make a grid.
Which Bread to Use
When choosing a loaf of bread for this recipe choose a larger option. Sourdough bread is the best. A large baguette or French bread loaf will work for this cranberry brie pull-apart bread as well.
What if I don’t Have Leftover Cranberry Sauce?
If all your cranberry sauce was gobbled up on Thanksgiving or you don’t have any on hand you can use dried cranberries or make a quick cranberry sauce.
To make a quick sauce combine 2 cups of fresh cranberries in 1 1/2 cups of water. Bring to a boil and cook for 5 minutes. Turn heat to low and simmer for 10 more minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons sugar and 2 teaspoons vanilla.
Can I use Different Cheese?
Yes. Make sure to choose a cheese that melts well. Some of the best options that complement this recipe are gruyere, fontina, provolone, gouda, and Havarti.
PRO Tips for Making Pull-Apart Bread for a Party
This cranberry brie pull-apart bread can easily be prepared ahead of guests’ arrival using these simple tips.
- If making this bread for a party you can easily set it up before and store it in the fridge if wrapped tightly. Add 5 minutes to the bake time.
- When making the bread ahead of time, used softened butter instead of melted and spread it between the cracks with a knife.
- This bread can also be baked in advance and reheated in the microwave.
Other Ideas of What to Do with Leftover Cranberry Sauce
- Cranberry Meatballs Appetizer
- Yogurt Parfait with Cranberry Sauce
- Use as a sauce for cooking chicken or beef
- Make turkey and cranberry sauce sandwiches
Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread
Ingredients
- 1 Round Loaf Sourdough Bread
- 1/4 cup Butter melted
- 16 ounces Brie Cheese
- 1½ cup Cranberry Sauce
- 2 tablespoons Butter melted
- 3 tablespoons Brown Sugar
- 1/4 cup Chopped Pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350℉.
- Slice the bread horizontally almost to the bottom, but not all the way, and then vertically creating a grid. Place on a rimmed baking sheet. Use a spoon to drizzle the melted butter between all the cut pieces.
- Slice the brie into small squares or pieces and wedge in between the cut bread slices, top with cranberry sauce or dried cranberries. Add more cheese to the top of the cranberry sauce to create layers of cheese.
- In a small bowl combine the melted butter, brown sugar and chopped pecans. Sprinkle on top of the bread.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the brie begins to melt.
Can’t I use canned cranberry sauce
Yes, you can. I recommend using the canned cranberry sauce with hold cranberries in it.
Could I make this ahead and freeze
it?
I honestly haven’t tried to freeze this pull-apart bread but did a little research and according to Taste of Home, it should work. Let the bread cool completely and then double wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. You can then let it thaw in the fridge overnight.
This is a delicious breakfast option. I have to try making this this weekend.
It’s a fantastic way to use leftover cranberry sauce! I will buy a round bread and make sure some sauce is left to make this beauty! I’m dying to try it with gouda, as you suggest.
I am obsessed with cranberries at this time of the year. The more ways to enjoy them, the better. In bread with loads of cheese? Yes, please!!!
This is my kind of an appetizer! Putting this on my Christmas dinner menu!
Oh wow! This looks divine! Definitely putting this out as an appetizer for Thanksgiving!
What a simple and elegant recipe for the holidays!! I made this for a dinner party recently and my guests absolutely loved it!
That’s so amazing to hear Anjali!
That’s so amazing to hear Anjali!
What a wonderful flavor combination. This is perfect for holiday parties. Definitely keeping this recipe on hand!
Thanks, Annissa! I certainly enjoyed it myself.
Oh my goodness! This was quick, easy and delicious. I made it for some friends and there was barely a crumb left.
Thanks, Krissy! You’re the best.
I wish I can grab a piece or two from my screen, Aimee. I’ve always loved brie, so this is right up my alley. How perfect would this be for the holiday? Just give me this and a glass of wine, and I’ll be on happy girl. 🙂
I like your thinking Anita!