If you’re looking for the ultimate holiday appetizer, this Tear Apart Baked Cranberry Brie Bread Bowl checks every box. It’s gorgeous, easy to make, and absolutely irresistible. Think gooey, melty brie paired with sweet-tart cranberry sauce, all baked inside a golden, crusty bread bowl that doubles as the dipper.
This is the kind of appetizer that makes you look like a holiday hostess pro (Martha Stewart vibes) without the stress. In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a warm, shareable dish that’s perfect for Christmas, Thanksgiving, New Year’s Eve, or any holiday party.
Why You’ll Love This Appetizer
- Beautiful centerpiece – looks fancy but is easy to pull together.
- Melty, cheesy goodness – creamy brie melts into the bread for the perfect dip.
- Festive flavor combo – cranberry + brie = holiday magic.
- Pull-apart style – the bread bakes into ready-to-dip pieces.
Ingredients
- 1 round bread boule (rustic loaf)
- 1 wheel of brie (about 12 oz, rind removed – triple cream recommended)
- ½ cup whole berry cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Kosher salt & fresh cracked pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment.
- Slice the top quarter off your bread boule. Place the brie wheel on top and trace a circle. Hollow out the center to fit the brie.
- Cut slits around the bread about 1½ inches apart, slicing ¾ of the way down (not through the bottom). This creates pull-apart pieces.
- Brush the inside of the bread with olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and half the thyme.
- Place the brie in the hollow, sprinkle with the remaining thyme, and spoon cranberry sauce over the top.
- Replace the bread “lid” and bake for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melty and gooey.
- Serve immediately, pulling apart the bread pieces and dipping into the brie. (Toast the scooped-out bread for extra dippers!)
Tips for Success
- Use triple cream brie for the best melt.
- Stick with whole berry cranberry sauce, not jellied. Homemade is even better!
- Serve hot – this is best enjoyed straight out of the oven.
This Bloomin’ Brie Bread Bowl is festive, cheesy, and guaranteed to disappear fast. Pair it with cocktails or a holiday punch, and watch your guests crowd around the table for “just one more dip.”