There’s something about a Roasted Garlic Brie Bread Bowl that feels like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket on a crisp October day. My love for cozy, seasonal recipes like this began in my grandmother’s kitchen, where the aroma of roasting garlic always meant something comforting was coming. After years cooking in diners and food stalls around the world, I learned that the simplest dishes ones like this melty, golden bread bowl are the ones that bring people together.
This one has become a reader favorite on Fresh Leaf Rezepte, especially during the fall holidays. It’s perfect for gatherings, game days, or just an indulgent weekend snack. With creamy brie, sweet roasted garlic, and a golden bread crust ready for dipping, it’s everything you want in a sharable appetizer.
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Roasted Garlic Brie Bread Bowl
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy, gooey brie tucked inside a golden sourdough bowl and topped with sweet roasted garlic and fresh herbs this fall-favorite appetizer is cozy, sharable, and perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 round sourdough bread loaf (about 8 inches)
- 1 wheel of brie (8 oz or larger)
- 2 whole garlic heads
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (or thyme)
- Fresh cracked pepper to taste
- Pinch of salt
- Extra bread chunks (from hollowed loaf)
- Crackers or sliced veggies (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the tops off garlic heads to expose the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 35–40 minutes until soft and golden.
- Cut a wide circle on top of the sourdough loaf and gently hollow out the center. Save bread chunks for dipping.
- Place brie wheel inside the bread cavity. Squeeze roasted garlic over brie. Add herbs, cracked pepper, and a sprinkle of salt.
- Wrap bread loosely in foil and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes. Uncover and bake another 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve warm on a platter with toasted bread chunks. Dig in while hot and gooey!
Notes
Use a crusty sourdough loaf to hold the cheese. Roasted garlic can be prepped up to 3 days in advance. For a gluten-free version, swap with a crusty gluten-free boule and pair with veggie dippers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Ingredients for Roasted Garlic Brie Bread Bowl
Before we dive into the method, here’s what you’ll need for this recipe. Each ingredient is easy to find, with a few flexible swaps if you’re working with dietary needs.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 round sourdough bread loaf (about 8 inches)
- 1 wheel of brie (8 oz or larger)
- 2 whole garlic heads
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (or thyme)
- Fresh cracked pepper to taste
- Pinch of salt
For Serving:
- Extra bread chunks (from hollowed loaf)
- Crackers or sliced veggies (optional)
Quick Tip: Want a gluten-free version? Swap the sourdough for a gluten-free boule or artisan loaf. For inspiration, see our gluten-free sourdough bread guide.
Step by Step Instructions: Easy & Foolproof
Making a Roasted Garlic Brie Bread Bowl might sound fancy, but it’s truly beginner-friendly. Here’s how to make it:
Step 1: Roast the Garlic
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the tops off your garlic heads to expose the cloves.
- Drizzle with olive oil and wrap in foil.
- Roast for 35–40 minutes until soft and golden.
Step 2: Prep the Bread Bowl
- Cut a wide circle on top of the sourdough loaf and gently hollow out the center.
- Save the bread chunks for dipping later.
- Place the brie wheel inside the bread cavity.
- Squeeze roasted garlic cloves over the brie.
- Add herbs, cracked pepper, and a light sprinkle of salt.
Step 3: Bake Until Gooey
- Wrap the bread loosely in foil and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
- Uncover and bake another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 4: Serve Warm
- Place the bread bowl on a platter with toasted bread chunks.
- Dig in while it’s hot and gooey!
Love fall flavors? Try our sweet sourdough pumpkin bread with pecans for a dessert pairing.
Tips for a Perfect Bread Bowl Experience
To help your Roasted Garlic Brie Bread Bowl turn out perfect every time, here are a few smart tips:
- Pick the Right Bread: A sturdy, crusty sourdough holds up best. Softer bread may collapse.
- Roast Garlic Ahead: Roasting garlic can be done 2–3 days in advance. Store in the fridge until ready.
- Let Brie Sit at Room Temp: Before baking, let your brie soften for about 20 minutes to help it melt evenly.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your bread too long in the oven can dry it out.
Looking for a similar warm dip? Check out our skillet brie with fig chutney.
Delicious Variations to Try
This recipe is super flexible. Try these easy twists depending on your preferences or what you’ve got in the pantry.
Make It Sweet & Savory:
- Add a swirl of fig jam or honey over the brie before baking.
Add Crunch with Toppings:
- Sprinkle chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) on top for texture.
Go Gluten-Free:
- Use a crusty gluten-free artisan loaf and pair with veggie dippers.
Add a Streusel Crust (Sweet Version):
- For a dessert-like version, use a cinnamon streusel topping and serve with apple slices. Inspired by our apple pumpkin streusel muffins.
Storage & Reheating Tips
While this dish is best served warm and fresh, here’s how to handle leftovers (if you have any!):
To Store:
- Wrap leftover bread bowl in foil and refrigerate up to 2 days.
To Reheat:
- Place in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes until the brie is melted again.
Freeze Tip:
- We don’t recommend freezing this once assembled, but you can freeze roasted garlic for future use.
Need more cozy ideas? Try our comforting autumn squash soup or one-pan chicken and chorizo as main dishes.
FAQs: Roasted Garlic Brie Bread Bowl
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can roast the garlic and prep the bread bowl a few hours ahead. Just assemble and bake when ready to serve.
What bread works best for this recipe?
Sourdough or a rustic artisan round works best. The crust helps hold the shape and keeps everything warm.
Can I use a different cheese?
Brie melts beautifully, but camembert works well too. For a stronger flavor, try a soft goat cheese wheel.
How do I serve it at a party?
Place on a wooden board with crackers, toasted bread chunks, and fresh fruit like grapes or sliced apples.
Final Thoughts
The Roasted Garlic Brie Bread Bowl is more than just a recipe it’s a moment of comfort, a conversation starter, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just craving something warm and cheesy, this dish checks all the boxes.
Try it once, and it’ll become your go-to fall favorite. And if you’re planning a spread, consider pairing it with something like our caramelized onion and brie puff pastry tarts for a full brie-themed feast.