Baked Brie in Bread Bowl with Cranberry Sauce and Thyme
Dive into a delicious and elegant appetizer, offering the comforting experience of warm and gooey brie paired with tangy cranberry sauce and thyme, all snuggled within a crusty bread bowl. Perfect for any cozy gathering or holiday season festivities.
(Prep Time: 10 minutes | Bake Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 6-8)
Why Make This Recipe
This delectable, finger-licking dish, is a blend of sweet and savory flavors that surely tantalizes your taste buds. Not only it’s a comforting winter appetizer but also its uncomplicated process and simple ingredients make it a fantastic choice for gatherings and parties.
How to Make Baked Brie in Bread Bowl with Cranberry Sauce and Thyme
Ingredients:
– 1 round loaf of sourdough or boule bread
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese
– 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions :
1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cut a circular top out of the bread loaf and hollow it to fit the brie wheel neatly. Keep the bread pieces for serving.
3. Place the wheel of brie inside the bread bowl.
4. Spread the cranberry sauce over the top of the brie, sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves, salt, and pepper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the bread bowl’s edges. Place it on a baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes, or until the brie is bubbling.
6. Let it cool for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. Serve warm with reserved bread pieces or crackers for dipping.
How to Serve Baked Brie in Bread Bowl with Cranberry Sauce and Thyme
Serve it warm with the reserved bread pieces or crackers. This mouth-watering recipe best pairs with a glass of Pinot Noir or your favorite bubbly.
How to Store Baked Brie in Bread Bowl with Cranberry Sauce and Thyme
It’s best consumed immediately after baking. In case of leftovers, wrap it in aluminum foil and store it in a refrigerator. To reheat, heat it in a preheated oven (350°F) for about 10 minutes.
Tips to Make Baked Brie in Bread Bowl with Cranberry Sauce and Thyme
– Using a bread with a firm crust like a sourdough or boule will help hold in the melted brie.
– For a festive touch, add roasted pecans or walnuts on top.
– If you’d like a bit more zing, add a teaspoon of orange zest to your cranberry sauce.
Variations
Instead of cranberry sauce and thyme, you can use a mixture of roasted garlic and rosemary, or caramelized onions and figs. You can also add a bit of honey or maple syrup on top for a sweet spin.
FAQs
1. Is there a vegan alternative to brie?
Yes, there are several excellent vegan brie alternatives available in most grocery stores.
2. What can I use instead of cranberry sauce?
Cranberry sauce can be replaced with fig jam, apricot preserve or any other fruit jam of your choice.
3. Can this be made in advance?
You can prepare it in advance, but it is best baked right before serving for the ultimate indulgence.