Baked Brie in a Bread Bowl

Directions

• In a small bowl, combine the wine, brown sugar and seasonings. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook shallots in butter until tender. Add pears; cook and stir 3 minutes longer. Add wine mixture; bring to a boil. Cook and stir for 10 minutes or until liquid is evaporated.
• Cut the top fourth off of the loaf of bread; carefully hollow out enough of bread from the bottom so cheese will fit (discard removed bread or save for another use). Layer half of the cheese, pear mixture and almonds in bread. Repeat layers. Replace bread top. Wrap in a large piece of heavy-duty foil.
• Bake at 350° for 45-50 minutes or until cheese is melted. Let stand for 10 minutes. Cut into wedges.