Baked Brie Cranberry in Bread Bowl – The Ultimate Holiday Appetizer
Looking for a show-stopping appetizer that’s as delicious as it is easy to make? This Baked Brie Cranberry in Bread Bowl is a warm, gooey, and flavorful treat that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or any cozy occasion. With creamy, melted brie nestled inside a crusty bread bowl and topped with sweet-tart cranberry sauce and fresh thyme, this appetizer brings a touch of elegance to any table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines everything we love about the holiday season – rich flavors, comforting warmth, and a presentation that’s sure to impress. The crusty bread bowl not only makes for an attractive serving vessel but also becomes a delicious dipper for the creamy brie and cranberry sauce. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this is a go-to appetizer that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 bread boule (round loaf)
- Cooking spray
- 1 (8-ounce) brie wheel
- ½ cup cranberry sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread Bowl and Brie
- Slice off the top quarter of the bread boule and set it aside.
- Carefully slice the rind off the brie wheel.
- Place the brie on top of the bread, and use a knife to trace around it to create a circle. Scoop out the bread inside the traced area, making a hollow center for the brie. Reserve the removed bread for another use or for toasting as dippers.
Step 3: Assemble the Bread Bowl
- Place the bread boule on the prepared baking sheet and nestle the brie wheel into the hollowed center.
- Lightly spray the outer crust of the bread with cooking spray to help it turn golden and crisp.
- Using a knife, make cuts around the edges of the bread, spacing about 1-2 inches apart to form easy-to-grab slices. Be careful not to cut all the way through – this will make it easy to pull apart pieces for dipping.
Step 4: Add the Cranberry Sauce and Thyme
- Spoon the cranberry sauce over the brie, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the fresh thyme on top for added flavor and a pop of color.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the brie is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve immediately while warm, with the gooey brie ready to be enjoyed with pieces of the crusty bread.
Recipe Notes
- Cranberry Sauce: Homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce works well, and you can even experiment with adding orange zest for a citrusy twist.
- Extra Dippers: Besides the bread bowl, you can serve with apple slices, crackers, or toasted baguette slices for more dipping options.
- Make it Savory: For a savory twist, add a drizzle of honey and sprinkle with chopped walnuts or pecans.
Nutrition Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Calories: 320 kcal per serving
- Servings: 6 servings
Final Thoughts
This Baked Brie Cranberry in Bread Bowl is a delightful mix of creamy, sweet, and savory flavors that’s perfect for any holiday party or festive gathering. With its easy preparation and impressive presentation, it’s sure to become a favorite on your appetizer menu. Gather around, dig in, and enjoy every warm, cheesy, cranberry-infused bite!
Baked Brie Cranberry in Bread Bowl
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
Indulge in the festive flavors of this Baked Brie Cranberry Bread Bowl, where creamy, melted brie combines with tangy cranberry sauce inside a warm, crusty bread boule. This delightful appetizer is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a crowd-pleaser that brings a touch of holiday elegance to any gathering. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family evening or a festive party, it’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
1 bread boule (round loaf)
Cooking spray
1 (8-ounce) brie wheel
½ cup cranberry sauce
2 tablespoons fresh thyme
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Slice off the top quarter of the bread boule. Carefully slice the rind off the brie wheel. Place the brie on top of the bread and use a knife to trace around it, creating a circle. Scoop out the bread inside the traced area, reserving it for another use or toasting as dippers.
Place the bread boule on the prepared baking sheet. Nestle the brie wheel into the hollowed bread center.
Lightly spray the outer crust of the bread with cooking spray. Using a knife, create cuts around the edges of the bread, spacing about 1-2 inches apart, to form easy-to-grab slices without cutting all the way through.
Spoon the cranberry sauce over the brie and sprinkle fresh thyme on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes, or until the bread is golden and the brie is melted and bubbly.
Serve immediately for a warm, gooey, and flavorful appetizer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 320