Description
This baked Camembert recipe transforms a classic French cheese into a warm, gooey appetizer perfect for sharing. The creamy cheese is scored and infused with fresh thyme and olive oil, then baked until soft and luscious. Served alongside crisp apple slices and toasted baguette, it offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures ideal for entertaining or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese
- 1 wheel Camembert cheese (8 ounces)
Herbs and Oil
- 2–3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Accompaniments
- 1 red apple, sliced
- 1/2 baguette, sliced and toasted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the Camembert.
- Prepare Cheese: Place the Camembert wheel in an oven-safe dish and score the top in a crisscross pattern to allow flavors to penetrate and help the cheese melt evenly.
- Add Flavor: Drizzle the olive oil over the scored top and place the fresh thyme sprigs on the cheese to infuse it with aromatic herbal notes.
- Ready for Baking: If necessary, wrap the base of the dish with parchment paper to catch any drips, then place the dish on a baking sheet for stability in the oven.
- Bake: Bake the Camembert for 15–20 minutes until it becomes soft and gooey inside, indicating it is perfectly melted.
- Rest: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 2–3 minutes to settle before serving, so it’s warm but manageable.
- Serve: Serve the baked Camembert immediately with crisp apple slices and toasted baguette slices to create a delicious, shareable appetizer.
Notes
- Be careful not to overbake; the cheese should be melty but not runny.
- Scoring the cheese helps the flavors meld and produces an appealing presentation.
- Fresh thyme adds a subtle herbal flavor, but rosemary or sage can be good alternatives.
- Serving with fruit like apples balances the rich creaminess of the cheese.
- Use a sturdy oven-safe dish to avoid spills during baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French