Warm Camembert with Garlic and Herbs

Name: Warm Camembert with Garlic and Herbs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 wheel of Camembert cheese (about 250g); 3 cloves of garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Crusty bread or crackers for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love serving Warm Camembert with Garlic and Herbs at gatherings. This dish is incredibly simple yet impressively delicious. The gooey, melted cheese combined with the aromatic herbs and a hint of garlic creates a masterpiece that disappears quickly. I find that serving it with crusty bread or crackers elevates the experience even further. Perfect for cheese lovers, this dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also an elegant addition to any appetizer spread. It sets a great tone for any meal or celebration.

Created by

Maisie Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:40:14.594Z

My journey with Warm Camembert began during a cozy winter evening with friends. I decided to experiment by adding garlic and fresh herbs to the cheese, and it turned out to be an instant hit! The result is a creamy, fragrant delight that pairs beautifully with a glass of wine. I've found that allowing the cheese to warm slowly in the oven helps it to achieve that perfect melt without becoming overly runny.

What I love about this dish is its versatility; you can play around with different herbs such as thyme or rosemary based on your preference. The addition of a drizzle of honey right before serving creates a wonderful contrast of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. It's a truly delightful experience every time I make it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent, creamy cheese that oozes with flavor
Simple yet impressive for entertaining guests
Customizable with your favorite herbs and spices

      

Choosing the Right Camembert

When selecting a wheel of Camembert, look for one with a soft, creamy texture and a white, bloomy rind. A high-quality Camembert will have a slightly pungent aroma and should feel firm yet yield slightly under gentle pressure. Not all Camembert is created equal; opt for artisanal brands for the best flavor. If possible, buy from a cheese shop where you can ask for samples to ensure freshness and flavor profile.

For those who prefer a milder flavor, consider using a young Camembert, which will be less intense and creamier. Conversely, a more aged version delivers a deeper, richer taste. If Camembert is not available, Brie can serve as an effective substitute, though you may want to adjust the herb amounts to balance its slightly different flavor.

Perfecting the Bake

To achieve the perfect texture, keep a watchful eye on the cheese while it's baking. The goal is to have a wonderfully gooey center without overcooking it to the point where it separates. Start checking at the 10-minute mark. Once it's done, the top should be golden and slightly bubbly, while the center should feel soft when gently pressed. Remember, it will continue to cook slightly after you remove it from the oven, so taking it out just when it's soft allows for perfect timing.

Another key tip is to consider your oven's calibration; if you find that dishes often cook faster or slower than expected, you might want to invest in an oven thermometer. This little tool can help ensure your oven's temperature is accurate, leading to better, more consistent baking results.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

Main Ingredients

1 wheel of Camembert cheese (about 250g)
3 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Crusty bread or crackers for serving

Instructions

Instructions:

Prepare the Cheese

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Remove the Camembert from its packaging, and place it back in its wooden box if it came in one. If not, use a small ovenproof dish.

Add the Garlic and Herbs

Using a sharp knife, make shallow cuts across the top of the cheese. Insert the minced garlic into the cuts, then sprinkle the chopped rosemary and thyme on top. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Bake the Cheese

Place the Camembert in the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until it is soft and gooey in the center.

Serve Warm

Remove the cheese from the oven, and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm with crusty bread or crackers.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of spice or some honey for sweetness before serving.

Serving Suggestions

While crusty bread or crackers are classic accompaniments, consider pairing the Warm Camembert with sliced apples, pears, or figs for a delightful contrast of flavors. The sweetness of the fruit complements the rich, savory cheese beautifully. For an added crunch, toasted nuts such as walnuts or hazelnuts can be sprinkled on top before serving.

For a festive twist, try drizzling the finished dish with honey or a balsamic reduction right before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds an elegant touch to your presentation.

Make-Ahead and Storage

If you're planning for a gathering, you can prepare the Camembert setup in advance. Simply assemble the cheese with garlic, herbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper, then cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.

While best enjoyed fresh, leftover baked Camembert can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 10 minutes, checking regularly to prevent overcooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the Camembert in advance?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the cheese and toppings in advance and bake it right before serving.

→ What can I use instead of Camembert?

Brie is a great alternative with a similar texture and flavor profile.

→ Can I grill the cheese instead of baking it?

Yes, grilling can provide a lovely smoky flavor, but ensure it's in a grill-safe dish.

→ What herbs work well with this recipe?

Parsley, chives, and basils work beautifully as well. Feel free to experiment!