Baked Brie Bread Bowl Cranberry

This savory baked brie in a bread bowl is the holiday centerpiece my friends and family look forward to every year It delivers creamy melted cheese nestled inside a chewy loaf topped with tangy sweet cranberry sauce and a fresh pop of thyme I especially love serving this at festive gatherings because it feels special but comes together with hardly any effort

The first time I made this was for a cozy Friendsgiving and we could hardly wait for it to come out of the oven The scent of warm bread and cheese had us all gathered around the kitchen

Ingredients

• Brie cheese: Choose a small whole round for easy fitting Look for one with a smooth rind for best texture
• Round bread loaf: Sourdough or a classic boule work well Opt for a crusty exterior to hold up when hollowed out
• Cranberry sauce: Either homemade or a quality store brand Both add sweet tart flavor that cuts through the richness
• Fresh thyme leaves: This adds a herbal brightness Use only fresh as dried thyme lacks the same punch
• Egg: This gives the bread a glossy finish Whisk for easy spreading
• Optional nuts: Pecans or walnuts add crunch and nutty flavor Choose fresh unsalted nuts and toast them for extra depth

Instructions

Prep the Bread:

Slice a round lid from the top of your bread loaf about one half to one inch down Carefully scoop out the center leaving about one inch thickness on the sides and base so the bread holds up and does not leak

Fill the Bowl:

Unwrap the brie and place it in the prepared bread bowl Gently nudge so it fits snugly Spoon cranberry sauce evenly across the top then sprinkle fresh thyme and a handful of nuts if you like

Egg Wash and Lid:

Crack the egg into a bowl and beat until smooth Brush onto exposed bread edges for shine Put the bread lid back on loosely so steam can escape

Bake Until Gooey:

Set the whole thing on a lined baking sheet Bake at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit or one hundred seventy five Celsius for fifteen to twenty minutes Cheese should be melty and the bread crisped Remove and let cool a minute so the cheese settles

Serve and Enjoy:

Transfer to a big plate and use your hands to tear off bread pieces Each bite scoops up gooey cheese cranberry and herbs Savored best warm right from the oven

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My favorite part is the moment I pull the bread bowl from the oven and the cheese oozes out Each year my brother insists on helping with the bread tearing and it has become our little holiday tradition

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers transfer everything to an airtight container and refrigerate Rewarm in a low oven to keep the bread crisp and cheese melty The bread will soften after chilling but still makes a great snack

Ingredient Substitutions

Instead of cranberry sauce try apricot preserves or fig jam for a different flavor twist Brie can be swapped for camembert if you prefer a funkier cheese If you do not have fresh thyme try fresh rosemary

Serving Suggestions

Place the bread bowl in the center of your table with small plates and napkins nearby Sliced apples grapes or fresh veggies make great dippers alongside the bread Serve this as a starter at holiday dinners or for a brunch treat

Cultural and Historical Context

This baked brie tradition likely comes from French influence as brie cheese and bread are beloved in France The addition of cranberry and nut toppings gives it a North American holiday flair making it a delicious bridge between classic European cheese traditions and festive seasonal flavors

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This baked brie in a bread bowl will wow any crowd and can easily be customized with your favorite flavors Whether you are gathering on a cold night or celebrating with friends its the kind of recipe people remember long after the last bite

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?

Leave about a 1-inch wall when hollowing out the bread to ensure structure, and avoid overfilling with cranberry sauce.

→ Can I use other types of bread?

Yes, sourdough or a round boule work best, but any sturdy artisan-style bread can be substituted.

→ Will store-bought cranberry sauce work?

Absolutely! Both fresh and store-bought cranberry sauce provide great flavor in this dish.

→ How do I know when the brie is ready?

Bake until the brie feels soft and gooey to the touch, about 15–20 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

→ What can I serve with this appetizer?

Enjoy warm with extra bread pieces, crackers, or fresh fruit on the side for dipping.

→ Can I add different toppings?

Try adding toasted pecans, walnuts, or a drizzle of honey for extra texture and flavor.