Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread was one of the first holiday appetizers I ever served at a cozy autumn dinner. Back then, I wasn’t a confident host but I knew how to combine buttery bread, creamy brie, and tart cranberries into something unforgettable. This warm, melty bread didn’t just taste good it brought people together, laughing and sharing with every pull apart bite.
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It reminded me of my roots in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I first learned how food could turn simple moments into cherished memories. That passion followed me through years of cooking in diners, bistros, and street stalls across the world. Today, through Fresh Leaf Rezepte, I aim to make recipes like Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread easy and joyful for everyday cooks.
This one’s a crowd favorite cheesy, tangy, soft, and golden. Perfect for fall gatherings, Sunday snacks, or a Thanksgiving appetizer. You’ll love how quick it is to prep and how fast it disappears.
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Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A cozy, crowd-pleasing holiday appetizer featuring gooey brie, tart cranberry sauce, and crusty sourdough perfect for fall gatherings and festive tables.
Ingredients
- 1 round sourdough or boule bread loaf
- 200g (7 oz) brie cheese, sliced
- 1/2 cup chunky cranberry sauce
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- Optional: 1 tbsp chopped toasted pecans
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a tray with parchment paper.
- Place bread on a cutting board and slice crisscross slits into the top deep, but not all the way through.
- Stuff slices of brie and cranberry sauce into each slit generously.
- Mix melted butter with rosemary and sea salt. Drizzle all over the loaf, ensuring it seeps into the crevices.
- Wrap the loaf loosely in foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for another 10 minutes until golden and bubbling.
- Let sit for 2 minutes, sprinkle pecans if using, and serve warm.
Notes
Use a crusty artisan loaf for best results. Prep ahead and refrigerate unbaked for up to 8 hours. Serve on a board for sharing. Avoid freezing for best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients for Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread
You don’t need fancy ingredients. Just real, cozy flavors:
- 1 round sourdough or boule bread loaf
- 200g (7 oz) brie cheese, sliced
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (chunky preferred)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- Optional: 1 tbsp chopped toasted pecans
Ingredient Tips:
Use a crusty loaf that can hold its shape. Fresh rosemary gives it that signature autumn scent, and chunky cranberry sauce adds texture. For more seasonal inspiration, check out our Brown Sugar Pumpkin Loaf or Mini Brie Bites with Fig and Rosemary.

Step by Step Instructions
Making Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread is easy even for beginners.
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a tray with parchment.
- Cut the bread: Place the loaf on a cutting board. Using a serrated knife, slice crisscross slits into the top deep, but not all the way through.
- Stuff with flavor: Nestle slices of brie and cranberry sauce into each slit. Be generous.
- Butter and season: Mix melted butter with rosemary and sea salt. Drizzle all over the loaf, making sure it seeps into the crevices.
- Wrap and bake: Wrap the loaf loosely in foil. Bake for 15 minutes, then uncover and bake 10 more until golden and bubbling.
- Serve warm: Let sit 2 minutes. Sprinkle pecans on top if desired and serve immediately.
Want something savory-sweet? Try our Skillet Brie with Fig Chutney as another cozy appetizer.

Tips for Perfect Pull Apart Bread
Getting the most from your Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread is all about technique:
- Use a round, rustic loaf like sourdough or artisan boule.
- Cut deeply so your fillings melt evenly inside.
- Bake uncovered at the end for a crispy top.
- Want to make it ahead? Prep the loaf (without baking), cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 8 hours.
It’s perfect for Thanksgiving or a cozy Sunday evening. Serve it on a wooden board with a small spreader or just let everyone dig in with their fingers.
Variations to Try
This version of Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread is classic, but here’s how you can make it your own:
1. Gluten Free Swap
Use a gluten free round loaf. Look for one with structure so it holds up to baking.
2. Add Crunch with Bacon
Stuff cooked turkey bacon between the slices before baking.
3. Herb Lovers
Add fresh thyme or a pinch of sage with the rosemary for more earthy notes.
4. Dessert Vibes
Mix a brown sugar streusel with cinnamon and flour. Sprinkle lightly over the top for a sweet-savory version.
5. Vegan-Friendly
Use plant-based brie and dairy free butter. Many store-bought cranberry sauces are naturally vegan.
Love brie based snacks? Try this Brie and Fig Flatbread Appetizer for a fast, flavorful idea.

How to Store and Reheat
Here’s how to keep your Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread tasting fresh:
- Store: Wrap leftovers in foil or place in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a 160°C (320°F) oven for 7–10 minutes. Avoid the microwave brie melts unevenly.
- Freeze? Not recommended. The texture of the bread and brie doesn’t hold up well after thawing.
This makes a great next-day lunch if you do end up with leftovers just toast a few pieces in a skillet.
Craving a sweet companion? Pair with Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins for the perfect fall snack board.
Final Thoughts
Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread is the kind of recipe that brings warmth to any table. It’s gooey, comforting, and just a little indulgent perfect for special occasions or chilly weekends. Whether you’re hosting a big holiday or just treating your family, this recipe fits right in.
From my kitchen to yours, I hope it becomes part of your seasonal traditions. Just like it did for me years ago.
And if you’re hungry for more, try Caramelized Onion and Brie Puff Pastry Tarts or Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars both easy, delicious, and full of cozy flavor.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes. Camembert or goat cheese can replace brie, though the flavor will change slightly.
What cranberry sauce works best?
Chunky cranberry sauce with orange zest or cinnamon gives the best flavor balance.
Can I prep it ahead?
Absolutely. Assemble everything and refrigerate. Drizzle butter and bake right before serving.
How do I make it nut free?
Skip the pecans. It’s still amazing without them!
Is it a side or an appetizer?
Both! Serve it as a holiday starter or next to a fall soup like butternut squash.