Baked Camembert is a simple, show-stopping appetizer that melts into a warm, creamy center. The rind softens and the interior becomes velvety, fragrant with garlic and rosemary. It smells like toasted butter and thyme, tastes rich and slightly tangy, and pulls apart in long, silky strands. Serve it straight from the oven with crusty bread or crackers for a cozy treat that feels special without fuss. If you enjoy warm, comforting bites, you might also like this Baked Apple French Toast for a sweet brunch twist.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
(Approximate per serving; assumes whole Camembert ~250 g, 1 tbsp olive oil, divided into 4 servings)
- Calories per serving: 220 kcal
- Protein: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
Why Make This Baked Camembert
Baked Camembert turns a simple cheese wheel into a gooey, aromatic centerpiece. It takes little time and effort but gives big taste and drama. The hot, creamy texture makes it perfect for dipping and sharing. It’s ideal for a casual gathering, date night, or a cozy snack. The aroma of garlic and rosemary roasting into the cheese invites everyone to the table.
How to Make Baked Camembert
The method is straightforward: score the top, tuck in garlic and herbs, drizzle oil, and bake. The key is gentle heat so the cheese softens evenly without bursting. Use an oven-safe dish that holds the wheel snugly and a sharp knife for scoring. Timing is short, so watch for the cheese to soften but not collapse.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole Camembert cheese
- 1 garlic clove
- Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
- Olive oil
- Crusty bread or crackers for serving
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the Camembert from its packaging and place it in a small, oven-safe dish.
Step 2: Mixing
Score the top of the cheese with a knife in a criss-cross pattern. Insert thin slices of garlic and sprigs of rosemary or thyme (if using) into the cuts. Drizzle with olive oil.
Step 3: Cooking
Bake in the oven for about 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is soft and gooey and the top is lightly golden. Check after 15 minutes—ovens vary.
Step 4: Finishing
Remove from the oven and let rest for 1–2 minutes. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers. Scoop or dip into the warm, melty center.
How to Serve Baked Camembert
Serve straight from the oven while it’s hot and runny. Tear rustic bread, slice baguette, or arrange sturdy crackers for dipping. Add a spoonful of honey or a handful of roasted nuts for a sweet-salty contrast. A small dish of wholegrain mustard or a few pickled vegetables also pairs nicely. Place on a wooden board for a rustic presentation.
How to Store Baked Camembert
- Leftover baked Camembert: chill in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Texture will firm up; reheat gently to soften.
- To reheat: bake at 325°F (160°C) for 8–10 minutes or microwave in short 10–15 second bursts until warm and gooey.
- Unbaked Camembert: keep sealed in the fridge and use by the package date, usually within 1–2 weeks.
- Do not freeze baked Camembert; freezing alters the texture and makes it grainy.
Expert Tips for Perfect Baked Camembert
- Score shallowly. Cut just the rind so the cheese holds its shape while allowing flavor to infuse.
- Use room-temperature cheese. It will warm more evenly in the oven.
- Keep an eye on baking time. Overbaking can make the cheese overly runny or separate.
- Add toppings after baking if you want textures that stay crisp, like toasted nuts or fresh herbs.
- For a richer finish, drizzle a little honey after baking for a glossy, sweet note.
- Use a snug dish. A small, ovenproof dish prevents spreading and keeps the center deep and molten.
Delicious Variations
- Garlic & Herb: Add extra garlic slices and mixed herbs under the rind.
- Honey & Thyme: Drizzle honey and sprinkle fresh thyme after baking.
- Cranberry & Walnut: Top with cranberry compote and toasted walnuts for holiday flair.
- Truffle: Finish with a few drops of truffle oil or shaved truffle for an indulgent twist.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long do I bake Camembert to get it melty but not runny?
A: Bake 15–20 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Check at 15 minutes. The center should be soft and just starting to wobble. Remove once it becomes saucy but not collapsed.
Q: Can I bake Camembert in its wooden box?
A: Only if the box is marked oven-safe. Otherwise transfer the cheese to an oven-safe dish. Never put a sealed box in the oven.
Q: What if the rind bursts while baking?
A: A small crack is fine and won’t affect taste. If it splits widely, lower the oven temperature next time and bake a bit longer for gentler heat.
Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A: You can score the cheese and tuck in garlic/herbs, wrap and refrigerate up to 6 hours before baking. Bring to room temperature for 20 minutes before baking for even heating.
Q: Is this vegetarian-friendly?
A: Camembert uses animal rennet in many traditional versions. Look for Camembert labeled vegetarian or made with microbial/vegetable rennet if you need a vegetarian option.
Q: Can I use other cheeses?
A: Small wheel cheeses with edible rinds like Brie work well. Avoid fresh cheeses without rinds; they won’t hold the melted form as nicely.
Q: How should I cut the garlic?
A: Slice the garlic thinly so it softens during baking and releases flavor without becoming harsh or raw-tasting.
Conclusion
Baked Camembert is an easy, elegant dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. It offers creamy texture, aromatic garlic and herb notes, and a comforting pull-apart moment that guests love. Try a variation with honey and nuts or keep it simple with fresh thyme. For another reliable take and extra tips, see Best Baked Camembert – The Petite Cook™ (https://www.thepetitecook.com/how-to-make-baked-camembert/). Enjoy — serve hot, dig in, and savor every melty bite.
Print
Baked Camembert
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Baked Camembert is a simple, show-stopping appetizer that melts into a warm, creamy center, infused with garlic and rosemary.
Ingredients
- 1 whole Camembert cheese
- 1 garlic clove
- Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
- Olive oil
- Crusty bread or crackers for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the Camembert from its packaging and place it in a small, oven-safe dish.
- Score the top of the cheese with a knife in a criss-cross pattern. Insert thin slices of garlic and sprigs of rosemary or thyme (if using) into the cuts. Drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake in the oven for about 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is soft and gooey and the top is lightly golden. Check after 15 minutes—ovens vary.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 1–2 minutes. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers. Scoop or dip into the warm, melty center.
Notes
Serve straight from the oven for the best experience. Add a spoonful of honey or roasted nuts for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
