Tear Apart Baked Cranberry Brie Bread Bowl

Name: Tear Apart Baked Cranberry Brie Bread Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 large round sourdough bread; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 wheel of brie cheese; 1 cup cranberry sauce; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional); Fresh thyme for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

This Tear Apart Baked Cranberry Brie Bread Bowl is a delightful and interactive appetizer that combines gooey brie cheese and tangy cranberry sauce, all nestled within a warm, freshly baked bread bowl.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-19T17:01:02.509Z

This dish is perfect for gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy night in. The combination of warm bread, melted brie, and tart cranberry sauce creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for more!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The warm, gooey brie paired with zesty cranberry sauce is a match made in heaven.
Perfect for sharing, making it a fun centerpiece for your next gathering.
The bread bowl is not only delicious but also adds a rustic touch to your table.

      

The Perfect Appetizer for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a holiday party, a game day gathering, or a cozy family dinner, this Tear Apart Baked Cranberry Brie Bread Bowl is sure to impress. Its warm, gooey center and crispy exterior make it a delightful starter that everyone will love. Plus, the interactive nature of tearing apart the bread bowl adds a fun element to your event, encouraging guests to gather around and dig in together.

This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes. You can switch up the fillings by experimenting with different cheeses, such as goat cheese or cheddar, or try various fruit preserves like fig or apricot. The possibilities are endless, making this dish a staple in your appetizer repertoire.

Tips for the Best Bread Bowl

To achieve the best results, choose a high-quality sourdough bread that has a nice crust. A sturdy loaf will hold the filling well and provide a satisfying crunch when baked. Additionally, you can ask your local bakery for a day-old loaf, which is often better for hollowing out and makes it easier to handle during preparation.

When hollowing out the bread, be careful not to cut too close to the bottom, as you want to create a sturdy bowl that can hold the melted brie and cranberry sauce without leaking. Leave about an inch of bread around the sides to ensure it maintains its shape while baking.

Serving Suggestions

This Tear Apart Baked Cranberry Brie Bread Bowl is best served warm. Pair it with a selection of crackers, sliced fruits, or vegetable sticks for added texture and flavor. The sweet and tangy cranberry sauce complements the richness of the brie beautifully, making it a perfect match for a variety of accompaniments.

For an elegant touch, consider pairing this dish with a light wine or a seasonal cocktail. A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a fruity spritzer can elevate the flavors and enhance the overall dining experience.

Ingredients

For the Bread Bowl

1 large round sourdough bread
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme

For the Filling

1 wheel of brie cheese
1 cup cranberry sauce
1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Fresh thyme for garnish

Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients!

Instructions

Prepare the Bread Bowl

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut the top off the sourdough bread and hollow out the inside, leaving about 1 inch of bread on the sides. Brush the inside and outside of the bread bowl with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder and thyme.

Assemble the Filling

Place the brie cheese inside the hollowed-out bread bowl. Pour the cranberry sauce over the brie, and sprinkle with walnuts if using.

Bake

Cover the bread bowl with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh thyme, and serve warm. Use the pieces of bread you removed from the bowl for dipping!

Enjoy your delicious Tear Apart Baked Cranberry Brie Bread Bowl!

Storage and Reheating

If you have any leftovers, store the remaining bread bowl in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, it's best enjoyed fresh. When reheating, place it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to warm it through and restore its crispiness.

Avoid microwaving, as this can make the bread soggy. If you're planning to make it ahead of time, consider preparing the filling separately and assembling it just before baking for the best texture and flavor.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this recipe to accommodate dietary preferences or seasonal ingredients. For a savory twist, add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions to the filling. You can also create a spicy version by mixing in some jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes with the cranberry sauce.

If you're looking for a vegetarian option, this dish is naturally meat-free and can be served as a satisfying appetizer for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. The combination of flavors will please everyone at your gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute brie with camembert or any soft cheese of your choice.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the bread bowl and filling ahead of time, just bake it right before serving.

→ What can I serve with it?

Serve with fresh vegetable sticks or crackers for extra dipping options.