Cranberry Brie Bread Receipe

When the chill of autumn sets in and the desire for comfort food increases, few dishes can compare to the delightful combination of tart cranberries, rich Brie, and a homemade bread that provides the perfect vessel for this fusion of flavors. This cranberry Brie bread recipe is a delicious amalgamation of sweet and savory that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or an accompaniment to a hearty meal.

Ingredients

Here is what you'll need to create this scrumptious dish:

• For the Dough:
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
• Fillings:
  • 8 ounces Brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small chunks
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
  • 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions

Preparing the Dough

1. Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, mix the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture along with the olive oil. Stir until the dough starts to come together.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes or until it’s smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for about 5 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and allow it to rise for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Preparing the Filling

1. While the dough rises, prepare your fillings. If using frozen cranberries, thaw and drain them.
2. Mix the cranberries with honey in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook until the cranberries begin to break down and the mixture thickens slightly, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. Chop the walnuts if you’re using them, and finely chop the rosemary.

Assembling the Bread

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the gas, then turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 12x16 inches.
2. Spread the cooled cranberry mixture over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Scatter the pieces of Brie, chopped walnuts, and rosemary (if using) evenly over the cranberry layer.
3. Carefully roll the dough up from the long side like a jelly roll, pinching the seams to seal. If the dough is very sticky, you might want to sprinkle a little flour on top.
4. Fold the ends under to create a smooth loaf shape and place it seam-side down into a parchment-lined or greased loaf pan.
5. Let the loaf rise for another 30 minutes to an hour. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Slash the top of the bread loaf several times with a sharp knife or razor blade to allow for expansion during baking.
7. Bake for 35-45 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8. Cool the bread in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

✨ Note: To achieve the best results with yeast, ensure the water is at the correct temperature (110-115°F or 43-46°C) to activate it without killing it. If the water is too hot, the yeast can die, and if it's too cold, it won't activate properly.

Serving Suggestions

This cranberry Brie bread is versatile:

• Serve it warm or at room temperature, either on its own or with a spread like honey or herb butter.
• Accompany it with a glass of white wine or sparkling cider for an elegant appetizer.
• Slice it thick and serve with a bowl of hearty soup for a comforting meal.

Each bite is a testament to the balance of flavors - the sharpness of the cranberries, the creaminess of the Brie, and the comforting chew of the bread, all come together to create a truly unforgettable taste experience.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

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Yes, dried cranberries can be used, but they should be rehydrated. Soak them in hot water for about 10 minutes before using. You might also need to adjust the honey to compensate for their dryness.

What other fillings can I add to this bread?

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You can experiment with other fruits like raspberries or apricots. Nuts like pecans or almonds work well too. Adding herbs like thyme or sage can give a different flavor profile as well.

How long will this bread last?

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If stored in an airtight container at room temperature, this bread will last for about 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze for up to a month.