If you love the idea of combining warm, gooey cheese with the tart sweetness of cranberry, then this Garlic Herb Sourdough Bread Stuffed with Brie and Cranberry Sauce Recipe is about to become your new go-to appetizer or cozy snack. Imagine a beautifully crusty sourdough loaf hollowed out and brushed with a fragrant garlic herb butter, then stuffed with layers of creamy Brie and luscious cranberry sauce that melts together in the oven to create an irresistible, shareable treat. It’s elegant enough for holiday gatherings yet simple enough for any night you want to impress with minimal fuss. You are going to adore how this recipe fills your kitchen with warm, inviting aromas and dazzles your taste buds with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Garlic Herb Sourdough Bread Stuffed with Brie and Cranberry Sauce Recipe relies on a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a crucial role in bringing harmony to the final dish. From the fresh herbs to the quality cheese, every component adds to a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more.
- 1 large round sourdough loaf: Provides a sturdy, crusty vessel that’s perfect for holding the creamy filling without getting soggy.
- 8 oz Brie cheese, sliced: Melts beautifully and offers a rich, buttery flavor that complements the tart cranberry sauce.
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce: Adds a fresh burst of fruity sweetness and acidity to balance the richness of the Brie.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Used in making the garlic herb butter that infuses the bread with flavor and helps achieve a golden crust.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives the recipe a warm, aromatic kick that pairs perfectly with the herbs.
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped: Brings a piney, earthy depth that enhances the rustic charm of this creation.
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped: Adds a subtle, peppery note that brightens and balances the flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the nuances in every ingredient.
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness on the finished dish.
How to Make Garlic Herb Sourdough Bread Stuffed with Brie and Cranberry Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that once your bread is assembled, you can pop it in immediately for even cooking and perfect melting of the Brie.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Using a serrated knife, carefully slice the top off your sourdough loaf to create a lid. Next, hollow out the inside of the bread, leaving about a 1-inch border all the way around to keep the loaf sturdy but spacious enough to hold all the delicious fillings.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Herb Butter
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, fresh rosemary, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. This fragrant garlic herb butter will infuse every bite with layers of savory richness and enhance the bread’s natural flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Stuffing
Place the hollowed-out loaf onto a baking sheet. Brush the inside generously with the garlic herb butter mixture, allowing those luscious flavors to soak into the bread. Then start layering slices of creamy Brie inside, followed by a generous spread of cranberry sauce over the top. Continue layering until the loaf is filled, making sure each bite will have a perfect blend of cheese and fruit.
Step 5: Cover and Bake
Put the bread’s lid back on, and brush the outside with the remaining garlic herb butter. Wrap the entire loaf tightly in foil to lock in moisture and bake it for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye out for that oozy melted Brie inside and a beautifully golden crust on the outside.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the foil and let the bread cool slightly before garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if you like. Slice it up while it’s still warm to enjoy the Brie’s creamy texture and the delicious contrast of tart cranberry sauce and savory herbs.
How to Serve Garlic Herb Sourdough Bread Stuffed with Brie and Cranberry Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of freshly chopped parsley adds a delightful burst of color and brightness that contrasts wonderfully with the golden crust and creamy interior. For extra flair, you could even add a few crushed toasted walnuts on top to introduce some crunch.
Side Dishes
This stuffed sourdough bread pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly in vinaigrette, which cuts through the richness of the Brie. For a heartier meal, roasted root vegetables or warm butternut squash soup alongside offer complementary autumnal flavors that feel both comforting and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Garlic Herb Sourdough Bread Stuffed with Brie and Cranberry Sauce Recipe on a rustic wooden board surrounded by fresh herbs, extra cranberry sauce, and perhaps a drizzle of honey for a sweet touch. It also makes a lovely centerpiece for gatherings, encouraging every guest to dive in and share the warm, cheesy goodness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in the refrigerator. The bread will maintain its flavors well for up to 2 days, and the Brie inside will still taste delightful when gently reheated.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled but unbaked loaf for up to one month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn, then thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual. This makes it a wonderful make-ahead option for holiday entertaining.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, unwrap the bread and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the Brie re-melts and the bread regains some crispness. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the crust’s texture and the cheese’s luscious melt.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of Brie?
Absolutely! While Brie’s creamy texture and mild flavor make it ideal for this recipe, you can experiment with Camembert or even a soft goat cheese. Just look for cheeses that melt well and have a smooth texture.
Is homemade cranberry sauce better than store-bought?
Both work wonderfully here! Homemade cranberry sauce lets you adjust the sweetness and spices to your liking, while store-bought offers convenience without sacrificing too much flavor. Choose whichever fits your schedule.
Can I prepare this recipe without fresh herbs?
Fresh herbs really elevate the dish by adding bright, aromatic notes, but if you only have dried, use about one-third of the listed amount. Make sure to sprinkle them in the butter mixture so their flavor infuses the bread nicely.
How long can I keep this stuffed bread at room temperature?
To keep food safe and fresh, it’s best to consume the stuffed bread within 2 hours of baking. If you plan to serve it later, refrigerate promptly and warm before serving.
What’s the best knife to use when slicing the bread?
A serrated knife is your best friend here. It cuts through the crusty sourdough effortlessly without squishing the soft interior, giving you clean slices with ease.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about pulling a warm, garlicky loaf from the oven, stuffed with molten Brie and bright cranberry sauce, that feels like pure comfort wrapped in a crusty package. This Garlic Herb Sourdough Bread Stuffed with Brie and Cranberry Sauce Recipe is perfect for sharing with friends, impressing family, or treating yourself on a cozy night in. I hope you try it soon and discover your own moments of joy with every savory, sweet, gooey bite.
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Garlic Herb Sourdough Bread Stuffed with Brie and Cranberry Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Garlic Herb Sourdough Bread Stuffed with Brie and Cranberry Sauce is a delicious and impressive appetizer perfect for gatherings and festive occasions. It features a crusty sourdough loaf hollowed out and filled with melted creamy Brie cheese, tart cranberry sauce, and a fragrant garlic herb butter. Baked to golden perfection, this savory and sweet stuffed bread is ideal for sharing and pairs wonderfully with wine or as a decadent snack.
Ingredients
Bread and Cheese
- 1 large round sourdough loaf
- 8 oz Brie cheese, cut into slices
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Garlic Herb Butter
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the stuffed bread evenly.
- Prepare the Bread: Using a serrated knife, carefully slice off the top of the sourdough loaf to create a lid. Hollow out the center of the loaf by removing most of the bread inside, leaving about a 1-inch border all around to hold the filling.
- Make the Garlic Herb Butter: In a small bowl, mix together the melted unsalted butter, minced garlic, finely chopped rosemary, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper until fully combined to create a fragrant herb butter mixture.
- Assemble the Stuffing: Place the hollowed-out loaf on a baking sheet. Brush the entire interior of the loaf generously with the garlic herb butter mixture. Layer slices of Brie cheese inside the loaf, then spoon cranberry sauce over the Brie. Continue layering Brie and cranberry sauce until the bread is filled.
- Cover and Bake: Place the bread’s top back on as a lid and brush its outside with the remaining garlic herb butter. Wrap the entire loaf tightly in aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the Brie has melted and the bread crust turns golden and slightly crisp.
- Serve: Carefully remove the foil and let the stuffed bread cool slightly. Optionally garnish with fresh parsley. Slice the loaf and serve warm for the best melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Notes
- Use a serrated knife to avoid crushing the bread when slicing the top and hollowing it out.
- Choose a creamy Brie cheese for smooth melting that contrasts nicely with tart cranberry sauce.
- You can make homemade cranberry sauce or use store-bought for convenience.
- Wrapping the bread in foil during baking helps keep it moist while allowing the Brie to melt evenly.
- Serve the bread warm to enjoy the gooey melted cheese and flavors fully.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness if desired.
