Cranberry Brie Sourdough Bread Bowl
Description
This Cranberry Brie Sourdough Bread Bowl is the ultimate combination of savory, sweet, and creamy flavors. A crusty sourdough bread bowl is filled with melty Brie cheese, tangy cranberry sauce, and a hint of honey, then baked to golden perfection. This elegant yet easy dish makes for a stunning appetizer at holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or cozy nights in.
Ingredients (Serves 6-8)
- 1 round sourdough bread loaf (~8-10 inches in diameter)
- 1 (8 oz) wheel of Brie cheese
- ½ cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for crunch)
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary or thyme (chopped, for garnish)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for brushing the bread)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Bread Bowl
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the top off the sourdough loaf and scoop out some of the inside to create a hollowed-out bowl (save the extra bread for dipping).
2. Assemble the Filling
- Place the Brie wheel inside the bread bowl.
- Spread cranberry sauce over the Brie.
- Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with chopped nuts (if using).
- Season with a little salt, pepper, and fresh rosemary or thyme.
3. Bake the Bread Bowl
- Brush the outer crust with olive oil or melted butter for a golden finish.
- Place the bread bowl on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the Brie is fully melted.
4. Serve & Enjoy
- Remove from oven and garnish with extra herbs and nuts.
- Serve immediately with sliced baguette, crackers, apple slices, or the scooped-out bread.
Notes & Tips
- Choose a Good Brie: A double-cream Brie melts beautifully and has a rich, buttery texture.
- Cranberry Sauce Alternatives: Try fig jam, raspberry preserves, or apricot jam for a different flavor twist.
- Add More Texture: Toasted pecans, walnuts, or almonds add crunch.
- Make it Savory: Add crispy bacon bits or caramelized onions for a salty contrast.
- Keep it Warm: If serving at a party, keep the bread bowl warm in a low oven or wrap in foil.
Servings & Nutritional Info (Per Serving, Based on 8 Servings)
- Calories: ~250
- Protein: ~8g
- Carbohydrates: ~25g
- Fat: ~12g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Sugar: ~6g
(Values may vary depending on ingredients used.)
Health Benefits of Cranberry Brie Sourdough Bread Bowl
- Probiotic-Rich Bread: Sourdough contains natural probiotics that support gut health.
- Good Fats from Brie: Brie cheese provides healthy fats and protein.
- Antioxidant Boost: Cranberries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants that help fight inflammation.
- Balanced Energy: The mix of carbs, fats, and protein keeps you satisfied.
- Brain-Boosting Nuts: Pecans and walnuts offer omega-3 fatty acids for brain health.
Q&A (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes! A French boule or whole wheat round works well, but sourdough provides the best crispiness.
Q: What can I serve this with?
Great options include crackers, toasted baguette slices, apple or pear slices, and veggies like carrots or celery.
Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the bread bowl in advance, then bake just before serving.
Q: Can I make this without nuts?
Absolutely! Just leave them out or replace them with pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a nut-free crunch.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Wrap leftovers in foil and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes until warm.
This Cranberry Brie Sourdough Bread Bowl is a crowd-pleasing, festive, and flavorful dish that’s easy to make yet impressive to serve. Would you like any substitutions or additional variations?