Imagine the enticing aroma of freshly baked bread, the tantalizing blend of sweet cranberries and creamy brie, all coming together in a soft, pillowy pull-apart masterpiece. This Authentic Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary experience that will transport your senses and leave you craving for more.
As you tear into the golden-brown crust, the burst of juicy cranberries and the velvety smooth brie will dance on your taste buds, creating a symphony of flavors that will linger long after the last bite. This recipe is not just a delectable treat; it’s a testament to the power of simple, high-quality ingredients that come together to create something truly extraordinary.
Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering with friends or simply indulging in a moment of self-care, this Authentic Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread will undoubtedly be the star of the show. Get ready to experience a sensory delight that will have your guests raving and your taste buds begging for more.
Why This Dish Might Be Your Best One Yet ?
This Authentic Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread is more than just a delicious treat; it’s a culinary masterpiece that combines the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and indulgent flavors. The tender, pillowy bread serves as the perfect canvas for the tart cranberries and the creamy, decadent brie, creating a harmonious blend that will leave you utterly satisfied.
What sets this recipe apart is the attention to detail and the thoughtful use of high-quality ingredients. The freshly baked bread, infused with a touch of fragrant thyme, provides a sturdy yet soft base that effortlessly holds the luscious brie and the juicy cranberries. The result is a pull-apart experience that is not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• 1 teaspoon (5g) dried thyme
• 1 cup (240ml) warm milk
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (11g) active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 8-ounce (227g) wheel of brie cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup (150g) fresh or frozen cranberries, halved
• 2 tablespoons (30g) brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) maple syrup
The use of all-purpose flour in this recipe ensures a soft, pillowy texture that perfectly complements the creamy brie and the tart cranberries. The addition of dried thyme adds a subtle herbaceous note that elevates the overall flavor profile. The warm milk and active dry yeast work together to create a beautifully risen dough, while the melted butter and beaten egg contribute to the rich, tender crumb. As for the star ingredients, the brie cheese and the fresh or frozen cranberries provide the perfect contrast of creaminess and acidity, making every bite an absolute delight.
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and dried thyme. In a separate bowl, mix the warm milk and active dry yeast, allowing it to bloom for 5-10 minutes. Once the yeast is activated, add the melted butter and beaten egg to the milk mixture and stir to combine. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size.
- Assemble the Bread: Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle, approximately 12×18 inches. Arrange the cubed brie cheese and halved cranberries evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides. Sprinkle the brown sugar and drizzle the maple syrup over the top.
- Shape the Bread: Carefully roll the dough up tightly from the short side, creating a long log. Use a sharp knife to cut the log into 12 equal pieces. Arrange the pieces, cut-side up, in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Second Rise: Cover the baking dish with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the dough has puffed up and is nearly doubled in size.
- Bake the Bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the dough has risen, bake the pull-apart bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on the bread towards the end to prevent over-browning.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the baked pull-apart bread from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before gently pulling apart the pieces and serving. Enjoy the Authentic Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread warm, with any additional garnishes or dipping sauces as desired.
Timing Overview
• Cook time: 25-30 minutes
• Chill time: Not applicable
• Baking time: 25-30 minutes
• Freezing time: Not applicable
• Marinating time: Not applicable
• Cooling time: 10-15 minutes
• Blend time: Not applicable
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes – 1 hour 35 minutes
Nutritional Information
Delicious Keto Bread That Actually Tastes REAL!
Enjoy grain-free, keto-friendly bread without lectins or blood sugar spikes! Finally, restaurant-quality bread that's perfect for keto, paleo, and grain-free diets. No more missing out on sandwiches, bagels, and fresh-baked goodness. Your taste buds (and your waistline) will thank you!
- Keto Comforts: 7-Day Meal Plan
- Keto Spreads: Delicious Pairings for Your Keto Breads
- Keto Make-Ahead Breakfasts
- The Truth About Sugar
Nutritional information is an estimate per serving, based on 12 servings.
• Protein: 12 g
• Sodium: 467 mg
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Fiber: 2 g
Fun Alternatives to Try
• To Make it Vegan: Replace the brie cheese with a vegan brie or a creamy cashew-based cheese alternative. Use a plant-based milk and substitute the egg with a flax or chia egg (1 tablespoon ground flax or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water).
• To Add a Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes over the cranberries and brie before rolling up the dough. The warmth of the spice will provide a delightful contrast to the sweet and creamy flavors.
Make It Look as Good as It Tastes
• Garnish Suggestions: Garnish the warm pull-apart bread with a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves, a drizzle of honey, and a dusting of powdered sugar for a visually stunning presentation.
• Beverage Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine, such as a chardonnay or sauvignon blanc, or a refreshing apple cider for a cozy, autumnal vibe.
How to Keep This Recipe from Going Wrong ?
• Mistake 2 – Overcrowding the Baking Dish: Placing the pull-apart pieces too close together can result in the bread steaming instead of baking, leading to a soggy texture. Make sure to leave enough space between the pieces for proper heat circulation and even cooking.
• Mistake 3 – Overbaking the Bread: Keep a close eye on the bread towards the end of the baking time to prevent it from becoming overly browned or dry. Use the visual cues of golden-brown tops and melted, bubbly cheese to determine when the bread is perfectly baked.
How to Safely Store and Enjoy Later ?
• Freezing: This bread can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap the cooled, baked bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place it in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. When ready to enjoy, thaw the bread at room temperature before reheating.
• Reheating: To reheat the pull-apart bread, place the desired number of pieces in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is melted. Alternatively, you can microwave individual pieces for 30-60 seconds, taking care to not overheat and dry out the bread.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well in this recipe. In fact, using frozen cranberries can make the preparation even easier, as you don’t need to worry about halving fresh cranberries. Just make sure to add the frozen cranberries directly to the dough without thawing them first, as the cold temperature will help them retain their shape and texture during baking.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. After the first rise, you can punch down the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container, and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When ready to assemble and bake, simply remove the dough from the fridge, allow it to come to room temperature, and proceed with the remaining steps.
How do I know when the bread is done?
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The Authentic Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread is perfectly baked when the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbling. You can also use a toothpick or skewer to gently poke into the center of the bread; it should come out clean, indicating the dough is fully cooked. Keep in mind that the baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so be sure to keep an eye on the bread towards the end of the baking time.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While the creamy brie cheese is the star of this recipe, you can certainly experiment with other types of cheese. For example, a soft, mild goat cheese or a sharp cheddar would also pair beautifully with the sweet cranberries and savory bread. Just be sure to use a cheese that melts well to achieve the desired gooey, pull-apart effect.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread vegan, you’ll need to replace the dairy-based ingredients. Use a plant-based milk, such as almond or oat milk, in place of the regular milk. Substitute the brie cheese with a vegan brie or a creamy cashew-based cheese alternative. Finally, replace the egg with a flax or chia egg (1 tablespoon ground flax or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water). With these simple substitutions, you can enjoy this indulgent recipe in a vegan-friendly way.
Closing Notes from Our Kitchen
Crafting the Authentic Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread has been a true labor of love in our kitchen. The rich, creamy brie, the tart burst of cranberries, and the soft, pillowy bread come together in a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. This recipe is a testament to the power of simple, high-quality ingredients and the magic that happens when they’re combined with care and attention to detail.
As you prepare this dish, we encourage you to embrace the process and find joy in the journey. Knead the dough with intention, assemble the layers with precision, and bake with patience. The result will be a showstopping centerpiece that will impress your guests and delight your taste buds. So, gather your loved ones, pull apart the warm, golden-brown bread, and savor every bite – this is a moment to be savored and shared.
Bon appétit, and happy baking!
Authentic Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread: A Delectable Delight
⏱️ Timing Overview
🥘 Ingredients
📝 Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and dried thyme. In a separate bowl, mix the warm milk and active dry yeast, allowing it to bloom for 5-10 minutes. Once the yeast is activated, add the melted butter and beaten egg to the milk mixture and stir to combine. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle, approximately 12x18 inches. Arrange the cubed brie cheese and halved cranberries evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides. Sprinkle the brown sugar and drizzle the maple syrup over the top.
- Carefully roll the dough up tightly from the short side, creating a long log. Use a sharp knife to cut the log into 12 equal pieces. Arrange the pieces, cut-side up, in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Cover the baking dish with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the dough has puffed up and is nearly doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the dough has risen, bake the pull-apart bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on the bread towards the end to prevent over-browning.
- Remove the baked pull-apart bread from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before gently pulling apart the pieces and serving. Enjoy the Authentic Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread warm, with any additional garnishes or dipping sauces as desired.
