Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread Bites are little pockets of gooey brie cheese and tart cranberries wrapped in soft, fluffy bread. The combination of creamy cheese and sweet-tart fruit is hard to resist, and these bite-sized treats are perfect for sharing. They’re warm, melty, and packed with flavor, making them a great snack or appetizer for any time of year.
I love making these bites when friends come over because everyone can grab one easily, and they disappear fast! The best part is how easy they are to put together—the bread dough gets filled with chunks of creamy brie and a spoonful of cranberry sauce, then baked until golden brown and irresistible. I usually keep some extra cranberry sauce handy in case someone wants a little more tartness on the side.
These bites are wonderful served warm, right out of the oven. I like to pair them with a simple green salad or some fresh fruit to balance out the richness. They also make a festive snack during the holidays, but honestly, I could eat them any time because the flavor combo just hits the spot. If you’re looking for a fun and tasty treat, these bites definitely do the trick!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: A crusty round loaf like sourdough or rustic boule works best. Its firm crust keeps the bites together while the soft inside absorbs flavors. If you prefer, use a whole wheat loaf for a nuttier taste or gluten-free bread if needed.
Brie Cheese: Brie melts beautifully and adds creamy richness. Remove the rind for a smooth texture, or leave it on for a subtle bite. Camembert or a mild goat cheese can substitute if Brie isn’t available.
Cranberry Sauce: Tartness balances the creamy cheese nicely. Use store-bought or homemade cranberry sauce. Fresh cranberries tossed with a little sugar work too. For less tartness, try red currant jelly or raspberry jam.
Butter & Thyme: Butter adds richness and helps crisp the bread. Thyme brings an earthy aroma that pairs well with the cheese and cranberries. If you don’t have thyme, rosemary or sage make great alternatives.
How Can I Stuff and Bake the Bread Without It Falling Apart?
The main technique here is carefully cutting and stuffing the bread without breaking it apart.
- Use a very sharp knife to cut 1-inch cubes, slicing almost through but leaving the base intact. This keeps the loaf connected and easy to pull apart later.
- When stuffing, gently push Brie and cranberry sauce pieces into the cuts without forcing or tearing the bread.
- Brush melted butter thoroughly over the loaf, especially inside cuts, to keep the bread moist and help achieve a golden top.
- Bake in a dish to catch any melting cheese and prevent mess. Check that the cheese is nicely melted and the bread turns golden but not burnt, usually 15-20 minutes.
- Let it cool slightly before serving, so the cheese sets just enough for easy pulling apart.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Sharp serrated knife – I recommend it because it slices the bread without squishing it, making clean cuts for stuffing.
- Large baking sheet or baking dish – helps hold the loaf steady and contains any drips during baking.
- Pastry brush – makes spreading melted butter over the bread easy and even for a golden finish.
- Cutting board – provides a safe space to cut and stuff the bread, plus keeps your countertops clean.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap Brie for goat cheese or havarti for a different creamy flavor; they melt well and add a new twist.
- Use orange marmalade or raspberry jam instead of cranberries for a sweeter, fruitier filling.
- Add cooked spinach or caramelized onions inside the bread for extra savory layers.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for crunch and nutty flavor.
Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bread Bites:
- 1 round loaf of bread (such as sourdough or a rustic boule)
- 8 oz (225 g) Brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small cubes
- ½ cup whole cranberry sauce or fresh cranberries mixed with sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- 1-2 tablespoons honey (optional, for drizzling)
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of baking. In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a warm, cheesy, and fruity snack ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bread:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take the round loaf and carefully cut it into 1-inch cubes using a sharp knife, but don’t slice all the way to the bottom—leave about ½ inch intact so the loaf stays together like a pull-apart.
2. Stuff the Bread Cubes:
Cut the Brie cheese into small cubes. Gently stuff each bread cube with a piece of Brie and a small spoonful of cranberry sauce. If your cranberries are whole and large, you can cut them into halves or quarters before adding.
3. Bake and Finish:
Place the stuffed bread on a baking sheet or dish. Brush the melted butter evenly over the loaf, making sure some of it seeps into the cuts. Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves on top if you like some herbal aroma. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the bread turns golden brown. When it’s done, remove it from the oven and drizzle honey over the top for a touch of sweetness, if desired. Garnish with thyme sprigs and serve warm. Encourage your guests to pull apart the bites with their hands and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Cranberry Sauce?
Yes! If using frozen cranberries, thaw them completely and mix with a little sugar to mimic cranberry sauce. This prevents excess moisture and keeps the bread from getting soggy.
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
You can stuff the bread and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Just bring it back to room temperature before popping it in the oven to ensure even baking and melty cheese.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover bread bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to refresh the gooey cheese and crisp bread.
What Can I Serve With These Pull-Apart Bread Bites?
These bites pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a light soup. They also make a festive party appetizer on their own, perfect for sharing!
