Name: Festive Baked Cranberry Brie Bread Bowl
Ingredients: 1 large round sourdough bread loaf – This serves as the edible bowl for our filling, so a hearty loaf is ideal.; 8 oz wheel of brie cheese – Ensure to use high-quality brie for a perfect melt and creamy texture. For a lower fat alternative, consider using a brie blend.; ½ cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought) – This adds a sweet-tart flavor that balances the richness of the cheese. Homemade cranberry sauce allows for more control over sweetness and flavor.; 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary – Fresh herbs significantly enhance the flavors of the dish. For a different taste, thyme or sage can be used as a substitute.; 2 tbsp chopped pecans or walnuts (optional) – Nuts introduce crunch and a nutty flavor. You could also use sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.; 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional) – A drizzle of sweetness ties the whole dish together; adjust according to taste preferences.; 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter – Brushing the bread with oil or butter adds flavor and helps achieve a golden finish.; Crackers, bread cubes, or veggies for serving – These items complete the dish, providing additional textures and flavors for dipping.

Description

Festive Baked Cranberry Brie Bread Bowl combines creamy brie, tart cranberry sauce, and fresh rosemary baked in a sourdough loaf for a delightful appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

1 large round sourdough bread loaf – This serves as the edible bowl for our filling, so a hearty loaf is ideal.
8 oz wheel of brie cheese – Ensure to use high-quality brie for a perfect melt and creamy texture. For a lower fat alternative, consider using a brie blend.
½ cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought) – This adds a sweet-tart flavor that balances the richness of the cheese. Homemade cranberry sauce allows for more control over sweetness and flavor.
2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary – Fresh herbs significantly enhance the flavors of the dish. For a different taste, thyme or sage can be used as a substitute.
2 tbsp chopped pecans or walnuts (optional) – Nuts introduce crunch and a nutty flavor. You could also use sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional) – A drizzle of sweetness ties the whole dish together; adjust according to taste preferences.
1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter – Brushing the bread with oil or butter adds flavor and helps achieve a golden finish.
Crackers, bread cubes, or veggies for serving – These items complete the dish, providing additional textures and flavors for dipping.

Instructions

Prepare the Bread Bowl: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take the large round sourdough loaf and carefully cut a circle around the top, keeping the top piece to use as a lid later. Hollow out the interior of the bread, removing enough of the soft crumb to create a bowl, and reserve the removed bread for dipping.
Assemble the Filling: Place the 8 oz wheel of brie cheese at the base of the hollowed-out bread. Evenly spread the ½ cup of cranberry sauce over the top of the cheese. Sprinkle with the 2 tbsp of chopped fresh rosemary and add the 2 tbsp of chopped pecans or walnuts if desired. For added sweetness, drizzle 1 tbsp of honey or maple syrup over the filling.
Bake the Bread Bowl: Brush the edges of the hollowed-out bread with 1 tbsp of olive oil or melted butter to enhance browning. Carefully place the prepared bread on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the brie is bubbly and the bread’s edges are golden brown.
Prepare for Serving: In the last 10 minutes of baking, place the reserved bread pieces on the baking sheet alongside your bread bowl to toast them lightly. This ensures you have tasty dippers ready just in time for serving.