🍞 Garlic Herb Sourdough Stuffed with Brie and Cranberry Sauce
Introduction
This Garlic Herb Sourdough Stuffed with Brie and Cranberry Sauce is the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer — crispy on the outside, gooey and cheesy inside, with the perfect balance of savory garlic butter, creamy brie, and tangy cranberry. It’s elegant yet easy to prepare, making it ideal for parties, family dinners, or festive occasions.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Pull-apart or “bloomin’” bread recipes became popular in modern Western cooking as a fun, shareable appetizer. This version draws inspiration from European holiday flavors — creamy French Brie, tangy cranberry sauce from British and American traditions, and rustic sourdough bread that’s a staple in artisanal baking. It combines the best of sweet and savory cuisine, celebrating togetherness and indulgence during festive seasons.
Ingredients and Quantities
For the Bread
- 1 large sourdough loaf (round or oval)
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 8 oz (225 g) Brie cheese, sliced
For the Garlic Herb Butter
- ÂĽ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Additions
- Crushed walnuts or pecans – for crunch and richness
- Rosemary – for extra fragrance
- Honey drizzle – adds sweetness and shine
- Chili flakes – for a subtle heat
- Caramelized onions – for depth and sweetness
Tips for Success
- Use a crusty sourdough loaf – firm enough to hold the fillings without becoming soggy.
- Don’t cut all the way through – leave the bottom intact so the loaf stays together.
- Spread fillings evenly – tuck cheese and cranberry sauce deep between cuts for full flavor in every bite.
- Wrap in foil while baking – this melts the cheese perfectly without over-browning the crust.
- Serve immediately – best enjoyed hot and gooey straight from the oven.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven:
Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking tray with foil. - Prepare the bread:
Place the sourdough loaf on the tray. Using a sharp bread knife, cut deep crosshatch slices (about 1 inch apart), making sure not to cut all the way through the base. - Prepare the garlic herb butter:
In a small bowl, mix melted butter with minced garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. - Add the fillings:
Gently separate the bread sections and insert slices of Brie and small spoonfuls of cranberry sauce into the cuts. - Brush with butter:
Pour or brush the garlic herb butter evenly over the top, allowing it to seep into the cuts. - Bake:
Wrap the loaf loosely in foil and bake for 15 minutes.
Uncover and bake another 5–10 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and the crust is crisp. - Serve:
Garnish with extra herbs or a drizzle of honey (optional). Serve hot — pull apart pieces and enjoy the gooey, savory-sweet magic!
Description
This Garlic Herb Sourdough Stuffed with Brie and Cranberry Sauce is golden, aromatic, and irresistibly cheesy. Each pull-apart piece delivers the perfect mix of creamy melted Brie, tangy cranberry sweetness, and garlicky, herby butter-soaked bread. It’s an appetizer that feels both rustic and gourmet.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving, serves 6–8)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 11 g |
| Fat | 17 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
(Values may vary depending on bread size and cheese amount.)
Conclusion
This Brie and Cranberry Stuffed Sourdough is a show-stopping appetizer that looks impressive but takes minimal effort. With its combination of crisp bread, melted cheese, and bright cranberry sauce, it captures the essence of comfort, celebration, and good company.
Recommendation
Serve this dish as a holiday appetizer, party snack, or alongside roasted meats, soups, or salads. It pairs beautifully with a glass of white wine, sparkling cider, or mulled wine for festive gatherings.
Leftovers (if you have any!) can be reheated in the oven for 5–7 minutes until warm and melty again.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To make a lighter version, use whole-grain sourdough, light Brie, and unsalted butter or olive oil for brushing. Choose homemade cranberry sauce with less sugar to balance sweetness naturally. Remember — the joy of food lies in sharing, savoring, and finding balance between indulgence and nourishment.