Ever had your mind blown by a holiday appetizer so fun you nearly forgot it was edible? I certainly did the first time I made this Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread Wreath, the kind of star you need on your christmas appetizers lineup. It slices, it shares, it impresses family and friends, trust me.
I stumbled on this gem while hunting for fresh Christmas Party Food Appetizers to wow my relatives. Why settle for boring old cheese platters when you can serve a warm, cheesy wreath that practically devours itself? Seriously, grabbing a gooey chunk feels like snagging a holiday treasure – a top-tier Christmas Finger Food Ideas For Parties winner.
My kitchen smelled like pure holiday magic – imagine buttery brioche, tangy-sweet cranberry jam and melty brie dancing together. If you love Holiday Party Appetizers that double as decor, this recipe’s your jam (pun intended). It’s perfect for keeping plates empty and spirits high.
Am I overselling it? Maybe, but hear me out. When guests tug at pull-apart chunks like tiny teams vying for prized treasure, you’ll know I nailed it. IMO, this one tops most Christmas Dinner Appetizers lists because it’s interactive, indulgent and only requires a handful of ingredients. That’s holiday cooking done smart.
Ready to turn your table into a mouthwatering centerpiece? Let’s get this party generating oohs and ahhs with minimal fuss. FYI, you’ll want to make a double batch – leftovers vanish in record time! Whether it’s your go-to Christmas Eve Appetizers or a standout addition to any Xmas Appetizers spread, this wreath brings the cheer. 🙂
Table of Contents
Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread Wreath
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9″ bundt pan or coat with nonstick spray.
- Cut biscuit or brioche dough into quarters to create bite-size chunks.
- Spread a thin layer of cranberry jam on each dough piece.
- Place a cube of brie on top of each jam-covered piece.
- Stack pieces randomly into the prepared bundt pan to form a wreath shape.
- Drizzle melted butter over the top. Optionally sprinkle with sugar and flaky sea salt.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and brie is melted.
- Let rest in the pan for 5 minutes before inverting onto a serving platter.
- Garnish with chopped rosemary or thyme. Serve warm.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Ingredients
- 1 tube (17.3 oz) refrigerated buttery biscuit dough or brioche dough
- 4 oz cranberry sauce or homemade tangy-sweet cranberry jam
- 8 oz wheel of brie, rind removed and cut into 1″ cubes
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary or thyme (for garnish)
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional garnish)
- Flaky sea salt, a pinch
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9″ bundt pan or coat with nonstick spray. This ensures your wreath pops out flawlessly.
- Shape the Dough: Cut each biscuit or brioche piece into quarters. You’ll end up with bite-size chunks that are perfect for pull-apart action.
- Layer Jam: Spread a thin layer of cranberry jam on each dough piece. Keep it light so you get a tangy surprise without drowning the bread.
- Add the Brie: Place a cube of brie on top of each jam-covered piece. The combination of creaminess and fruitiness is pure holiday heaven.
- Build the Wreath: Stack each jam-and-brie piece randomly in the bundt pan. Aim for a rustic, slightly uneven look—that’s part of the charm.
- Brush with Butter: Drizzle melted butter all over the assembled wreath. It crisps up the edges and adds a golden glow.
- Optional Sprinkle: Dust with granulated sugar and a pinch of flaky sea salt if you like that sweet-salty contrast. Totally up to your sweet tooth.
- Bake to Perfection: Slide into the oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the brie starts to ooze. Peek once at 20 minutes to ensure it’s not browning too fast.
- Cool Briefly: Let the wreath rest in the pan for 5 minutes. This helps everything set so you don’t end up with a gooey avalanche.
- Unmold & Garnish: Flip the pan onto a serving platter. Sprinkle with fresh rosemary or thyme and serve warm. Watch guests dive in!
Variations
Feel like switching things up? Here are a few creative spins to keep you on your toes:
- Spicy Kick: Mix a dash of red pepper flakes into the cranberry jam for a subtle heat that surprises everyone.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts between the layers for a satisfying crunch and extra festive flair.
- Herb Infusion: Swap rosemary for fresh sage leaves tucked into a few pockets—earthy aroma meets creamy brie.
These tweaks keep the recipe fresh and help you cater to any crowd. Never underestimate the power of a simple twist!
Serving & Tips
This wreath pairs beautifully with a bubbly prosecco or a bold red wine. Serve it alongside a Christmas Charcuterie Board stuffed with meats and cheeses, or as a standalone star. Looking for Holiday Appetizers Easy enough to prep ahead? Simply assemble the night before, cover with plastic wrap, and bake when guests arrive.
Got leftovers? Wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 2 days—then reheat at 325°F for 10 minutes to restore that fresh-baked vibe. Need a quick Christmas Snacks For Party idea? Pull a chunk straight from the fridge; it’s still ooey-gooey and downright addictive.
Wondering how to incorporate this into your menu? Try pairing with a fresh green salad or roasted root veggies. It balances richness and keeps everything feeling light. Who said Christmas dinner appetizers can’t be both indulgent and versatile?
Final Thoughts
In all my holiday hosting adventures, this Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread Wreath stands out as a crowd-pleaser. It’s part appetizer, part centerpiece and 100% conversation starter. I still laugh remembering my uncle refusing to share—lesson learned: make two.
Whether you’re tackling a formal sit-down or casual grazing table, this wreath fits right in. Embrace the messiness, the gooey pull, and the satisfied smiles. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug—just more delicious.
FAQs
Can I use homemade dough instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! If you’ve got time, homemade brioche or dinner roll dough elevates the flavor. Make sure it’s slightly chilled for easier handling. Just cut into quarters and follow the same assembly steps.
Is there a vegan alternative for brie?
Yes, you can swap regular brie for a plant-based cheese wheel. Opt for a creamy cashew-based brie substitute and use maple syrup instead of sugar for a hint of sweetness.
How do I prevent the bottom from burning?
Place the bundt pan on a baking sheet to distribute heat evenly. If you notice the bottom browning too quickly, lower the oven rack one level and reduce temperature by 10–15°F.
Can I prepare this wreath in advance?
For sure! Assemble the entire wreath, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to serve, bring it to room temperature for 20 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
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