Welcome to the only Brie Cheese Bread recipe you’ll ever need. This stunning appetizer combines a rustic, crusty loaf of bread with rivers of molten, creamy brie cheese, all baked to golden-brown perfection. It’s the kind of dish that silences a room, followed by a chorus of delighted murmurs. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, a casual get-together, or simply treating yourself, this cheesy masterpiece is guaranteed to impress. It’s simple, elegant, and incredibly delicious.
We’re taking a simple concept and elevating it with pro tips to ensure you get that irresistible cheese pull every single time. Forget complicated recipes; this is straightforward comfort food at its finest.
Why This Brie Cheese Bread Recipe Works
This isn’t just another recipe; it’s a foolproof method for achieving appetizer greatness. We’ve tested every step to ensure you get a perfect result.
- Maximum Cheese, Minimum Effort: Our unique crosshatch cutting technique ensures every single bite is loaded with gooey, melted brie.
- Perfectly Toasted: We use a combination of butter and olive oil to get the bread perfectly crispy on the outside while staying soft and fluffy on the inside.
- Customizable Flavors: This recipe is a fantastic base. We’ll show you how to add herbs, garlic, or sweet jams to make it your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this brie cheese bread lies in its simplicity. You only need a handful of high-quality ingredients to create something truly special.
- Round Bread Loaf: A sourdough or crusty artisan boule (about 1 lb) works best. Its sturdy crust holds up to the melted cheese.
- Brie Cheese: An 8-ounce wheel of brie is perfect. No need for expensive brands, a good quality standard brie works great.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted butter adds richness and helps the bread toast beautifully.
- Olive Oil: A touch of olive oil mixed with the butter provides a superior flavor and crust.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is essential for a savory aroma and taste.
- Fresh Herbs: We love a combination of fresh rosemary and thyme for their woody, earthy notes.
- Flaky Sea Salt & Black Pepper: To season and finish the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a show-stopping appetizer ready in no time. The key is in the preparation of the bread bowl.
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Bread Bowl: Place your round loaf of bread on a cutting board. Use a serrated knife to carefully cut a circle in the top of the bread, about 1-inch from the edge. Remove the top and scoop out the inside of the bread, leaving about a 1-inch thick wall. Save the scooped-out bread for dipping!
- Score the Bread: Cut a crosshatch pattern into the inside base and walls of the bread bowl, being careful not to cut all the way through. This creates more surface area for the butter and cheese to seep into.
- Prepare the Brie: Remove the brie from its packaging. You can choose to score the top rind or leave it as is. Place the entire wheel of brie inside the bread bowl.
- Add Flavor: In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, olive oil, and minced garlic. Brush this mixture generously over the inside of the bread bowl and all over the scooped-out bread pieces. Sprinkle the fresh herbs, salt, and pepper over the brie and bread.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the stuffed bread bowl and the bread pieces on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the brie is completely melted and bubbly, and the bread is golden and toasted.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
Want to take your Brie Cheese Bread from great to unforgettable? Here are a few expert tips.
- Choose the Right Bread: A sturdy bread is key. Sourdough offers a fantastic tangy flavor that complements the creamy brie.
- Don’t Over-Bake: Keep a close eye on the bread. You want the brie to be fully melted, but if you bake it for too long, it can become tough.
- Serve Immediately: This appetizer is best enjoyed hot and fresh from the oven when the cheese is at its gooiest. For other amazing cheesy appetizers, you might love these Cheesy Bacon Pull-Apart Twists.
Delicious Variations to Try
While the classic garlic and herb version is a crowd-pleaser, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Cranberry & Walnut Brie Bread
Perfect for the holidays! Before baking, top the brie with a generous spoonful of cranberry sauce and a handful of toasted walnuts. This adds a festive, sweet, and tangy crunch. It’s a fantastic alternative to classic Cranberry Brie Bites.
Sweet & Spicy Honey Sriracha
For a modern twist, drizzle the brie with honey and a few dashes of sriracha before baking. The combination of sweet, spicy, and creamy is absolutely addictive.
Mushroom & Thyme
Sauté sliced mushrooms with fresh thyme until golden brown. Spoon the cooked mushrooms over the brie before baking for an earthy, umami-packed flavor profile.
What to Serve With Your Bread
This cheesy brie bread is a star on its own, but it also plays well with others. Serve it as the centerpiece of an appetizer board with apple slices, grapes, fig jam, and a selection of cured meats. It’s a full-fledged party starter, much like this Easy Cheese Ball Recipe.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap the bread in foil and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is re-melted and the bread is warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can prepare it ahead of time! Assemble the entire dish—stuff the bread with brie and brush with the butter mixture—then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
No, you do not need to remove the rind. The rind is completely edible and helps keep the cheese contained as it melts. It will become very soft and creamy after baking.
Store any leftover brie bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, wrap it in aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is gooey again.
This recipe is very versatile! Try adding cranberry sauce and walnuts for a festive touch, drizzle with honey and chili flakes for a sweet and spicy kick, or top with sautéed mushrooms and thyme for an earthy flavor.
A sturdy, round loaf with a thick crust is ideal. Sourdough, ciabatta, or a rustic artisan boule are excellent choices because they are strong enough to hold the melted cheese without becoming soggy.
The Perfect Cheesy Appetizer Awaits
This Brie Cheese Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s the perfect centerpiece for any gathering, bringing people together over a shared love of all things cheesy and delicious. We know you’ll love making it as much as you’ll love eating it. If you try it, let us know in the comments and don’t forget to share your creations on Pinterest!
Brie Cheese Bread Recipe
Brie Cheese Bread: The Ultimate Guide to Cheesy Perfection
Ingredients
Equipment
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the bread loaf on a cutting board. Cut a circle in the top, 1-inch from the edge. Remove the top and scoop out the inside, leaving a 1-inch thick wall. Save the scooped-out bread for dipping.
- Cut a crosshatch pattern into the inside of the bread bowl, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Place the entire wheel of brie inside the bread bowl.
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, olive oil, and minced garlic. Brush this mixture over the inside of the bread bowl and the scooped-out bread pieces. Sprinkle the fresh herbs, salt, and pepper over the brie and bread.
- Place the stuffed bread and bread pieces on the baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the brie is fully melted and the bread is golden.
- Serve immediately for the best cheese pull.
Notes
Ensure your bread is sturdy enough to hold the melted cheese without becoming soggy.
