Camembert with Honey and Thyme
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely love serving Camembert with Honey and Thyme as a warm, gooey appetizer at gatherings. The combination of creamy, rich cheese paired with sweet honey and fragrant thyme creates a delightful contrast that's both comforting and elegant. It’s incredibly simple to prepare, taking just a few minutes, yet it impresses every time. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a casual evening at home, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Let me share how I made this delicious treat, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
When I first tried Camembert with Honey and Thyme at a friend's dinner party, I knew I had to recreate it at home. The blend of the creamy cheese with the sweetness of honey and herbal notes from thyme creates an incredible flavor profile that’s truly irresistible. I discovered the key is to roast the cheese just enough to let it soften without losing its shape, which prevents a melty disaster.
As I experimented with this recipe, I found that adding a sprinkle of sea salt heightened the flavors, balancing the sweetness perfectly. The first time I served it to my family, they devoured the entire wheel! It’s become a regular feature on our table, and I'm excited to share this simple yet delightful dish with you.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy Camembert that oozes with flavor
- A perfect balance of sweet honey and aromatic thyme
- An impressive yet easy appetizer for any occasion
Elevating Your Cheese Experience
Choosing the right wheel of Camembert is crucial for this dish's success. Look for a cheese that feels slightly soft to the touch, indicating ripeness and a creamy interior. A well-aged wheel will yield a luscious, gooey texture that's perfect for dipping. Avoid any that are overly hard or have a discolored rind, as these may lack the rich flavors and creamy consistency we desire.
The addition of honey doesn't just add sweetness; it also enhances the Camembert's natural flavors, creating a beautiful synergy. Opt for high-quality honey, such as wildflower or clover honey, as their floral notes complement the cheese remarkably well. If you're feeling adventurous, try infusing your honey with different flavors—such as rosemary or lavender—for an unexpected twist.
Perfecting the Bake
Baking Camembert is an art that balances timing and temperature. Make sure your oven is preheated to 350°F (175°C) for even cooking. Start checking the cheese at the 10-minute mark—you're looking for a creamy, slightly bubbling surface. If the top begins to brown too quickly, consider covering it loosely with foil to prevent burning while the interior warms through.
To achieve a dreamy, gooey texture, avoid overbaking the cheese. The goal is for it to retain some structure while melting sufficiently to allow for easy dipping. If you've baked it longer than intended and it's too firm, try placing it back in the oven for a few minutes with a drizzle of extra honey to help moisten the surface.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
For the Camembert
- 1 wheel of Camembert cheese
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Sea salt, to taste
- Baguette or crackers, for serving
Preparation Steps:
Instructions
Directions:
Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Assemble the Cheese
Place the Camembert cheese in an oven-safe dish. Drizzle the honey evenly over the cheese and sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves, black pepper, and a pinch of sea salt.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is soft and just starting to ooze.
Serve
Remove from the oven and serve immediately with slices of baguette or crackers for dipping.
Enjoy your delicious Camembert with Honey and Thyme!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds on top of the honey for added crunch and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing your warm Camembert with a selection of accompaniments can enhance the overall dining experience. While crusty baguette slices are classic, consider offering a variety of options, such as artisan crackers, sliced apple, or even roasted vegetables. Each brings a unique flavor and texture that complements the cheese and honey beautifully.
If you want to elevate the presentation, you could also serve the Camembert in its wooden box (if it's oven-safe), garnished with a sprig of thyme and drizzled honey around the plate. This visual appeal adds a rustic charm that's perfect for casual gatherings or more formal occasions.
Creative Variations
Feel free to experiment beyond honey and thyme. You could swap out the honey for a fruit preserve like fig or apricot, which pairs exceptionally well with Camembert's richness. Alternatively, adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans not only adds a delightful crunch but also enhances the dish with added flavor and texture.
For those who enjoy a little heat, consider sprinkling crushed red pepper flakes or finely minced jalapeños on top of the cheese before baking. This adds a spicy kick that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy cheese and sweet honey, making for an exciting twist that's sure to surprise.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different cheese instead of Camembert?
Yes, Brie cheese is a great alternative and has a similar creamy texture.
→ How should I store leftover Camembert?
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, though it’s best enjoyed fresh.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the cheese with honey and thyme in advance, but bake it just before serving for the best texture.
→ What can I pair with this dish?
It's delicious paired with fruits like apples and pears, as well as a glass of light red or white wine.
Camembert with Honey and Thyme
I absolutely love serving Camembert with Honey and Thyme as a warm, gooey appetizer at gatherings. The combination of creamy, rich cheese paired with sweet honey and fragrant thyme creates a delightful contrast that's both comforting and elegant. It’s incredibly simple to prepare, taking just a few minutes, yet it impresses every time. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a casual evening at home, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Let me share how I made this delicious treat, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Created by: Rebecca Mills
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Camembert
- 1 wheel of Camembert cheese
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Sea salt, to taste
- Baguette or crackers, for serving
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the Camembert cheese in an oven-safe dish. Drizzle the honey evenly over the cheese and sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves, black pepper, and a pinch of sea salt.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is soft and just starting to ooze.
Remove from the oven and serve immediately with slices of baguette or crackers for dipping.
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds on top of the honey for added crunch and flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Total Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 210mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 16g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 9g