Introduction
Garlic Herb Sourdough Stuffed with Brie and Cranberry Sauce is a mouthwatering pull-apart bread that perfectly balances savory, creamy, and sweet flavors. The crispy sourdough crust, infused with garlic herb butter, envelopes melty brie cheese and tangy cranberry sauce for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. It’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary meal into a festive gathering centerpiece—perfect for the holidays or cozy nights in.
Origin
This dish draws its roots from European cuisine, particularly French and English influences. Sourdough bread has ancient origins, while brie—a soft, buttery French cheese—has been paired with fruits and preserves for centuries. The cranberry sauce adds a modern North American twist, merging the best of old-world sophistication with contemporary flavor combinations.
Cultural Significance
In Western holiday traditions, bread and cheese play a central role on the dining table. Brie and cranberry sauce have become iconic pairings during Christmas and Thanksgiving, symbolizing abundance and warmth. This recipe takes that classic pairing and transforms it into a shared, tear-and-share experience—emphasizing togetherness and comfort in every bite.
Ingredients Quantity
For the Bread:
1 large sourdough loaf
1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
8 oz (225 g) brie cheese, sliced into thin pieces
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried)
½ tsp sea salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Optional Additions
Chopped walnuts or pecans – for a nutty crunch.
Drizzle of honey – to add extra sweetness and shine.
A sprinkle of chili flakes – for a subtle heat kick.
Caramelized onions – for rich depth of flavor.
Tips for Success
Use fresh sourdough – day-old bread works best; it holds shape while soaking up butter.
Slice carefully – make deep crosshatch cuts without cutting through the base.
Warm the brie slightly before stuffing for easier spreading.
Don’t skip foil baking – it ensures melty cheese and soft interior before crisping the crust.
Serve immediately – best enjoyed warm and gooey straight out of the oven.
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the loaf: Place the sourdough on a cutting board. Using a sharp bread knife, cut diagonal slits about 1 inch apart in both directions, creating a crosshatch pattern—don’t slice all the way through.
Mix the garlic butter: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Fill the loaf: Gently stuff pieces of brie between the cuts of the bread. Spoon cranberry sauce into the gaps as well, alternating between the cheese and sauce.
Drizzle and wrap: Pour the garlic herb butter evenly over the loaf, ensuring it seeps into the crevices. Wrap the loaf in foil.
Bake: Place the wrapped loaf on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes. Then, open the foil and bake for another 10–12 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the top is golden.
Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm and let everyone pull apart the gooey, cheesy bread pieces.
Description
This dish is a culinary symphony of textures and flavors—crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside. The sourdough’s tangy notes complement the buttery brie, while the cranberry sauce adds a refreshing sweetness. Each bite delivers a perfect blend of savory herbs, melted cheese, and festive fruitiness. It’s irresistible as an appetizer, side dish, or snack for any occasion.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving — Approx. 1/8 loaf)
Calories: 310 kcal
Protein: 9 g
Fat: 19 g
Saturated Fat: 11 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Sugar: 6 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sodium: 340 mg
Conclusion
Garlic Herb Sourdough Stuffed with Brie and Cranberry Sauce is more than a recipe—it’s a moment of shared joy. Whether served as an appetizer at a dinner party or a cozy family snack, it turns simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Its vibrant color, festive aroma, and crowd-pleasing flavor make it a must-have for every gathering.
Recommendation
Serve it alongside roasted meats, sparkling wine, or a holiday charcuterie board. Pairing it with something fresh like arugula salad balances its richness beautifully.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While this bread leans indulgent, its natural ingredients—fermented sourdough, antioxidant-rich cranberries, and herbs—add a wholesome touch. Moderation is key: enjoy the warmth, savor the flavor, and celebrate the simple joy of good food shared with good company.