Camembert cheese is a beloved French delicacy known for its creamy texture and rich flavor. Cooking Camembert, especially baking it, transforms this already delicious cheese into a warm, gooey, and irresistible treat. Whether you’re planning a cozy night in or impressing guests at a dinner party, learning how to cook Camembert cheese is a simple yet impressive culinary skill. Let’s dive into the best ways to bake Camembert to perfection, along with tips, flavor ideas, and serving suggestions.
Why Bake Camembert Cheese?
Baking Camembert softens the cheese until it becomes luxuriously creamy and spreadable. The heat enhances its natural flavors and creates a molten center that pairs beautifully with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh fruits. This method is perfect for sharing and adds a cozy, indulgent touch to any meal or appetizer spread.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– 1 whole Camembert cheese (about 250g), preferably in its wooden box
– 1-2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary sprigs
– Olive oil or a drizzle of honey
– Freshly ground black pepper
– Optional: chili flakes for a bit of heat
– Sliced baguette, crackers, or fresh fruit for serving
How to Cook Camembert Cheese: Step-by-Step
1. Prepare the Cheese
Remove the Camembert from the refrigerator about 1-2 hours before cooking to bring it to room temperature. This helps the cheese melt evenly without cracking or separating.
If your Camembert comes in a wooden box, unwrap any plastic or paper packaging but keep the cheese inside the box. If it doesn’t have a box, place it in a small, oven-safe dish or wrap it in foil to contain the melting cheese.
2. Score and Flavor the Cheese
Using a sharp knife, make several shallow cuts or slits on the top of the cheese. This allows steam to escape and helps the flavors penetrate the cheese.
Insert thin slices of garlic and small sprigs of herbs like thyme or rosemary into the cuts. Drizzle a little olive oil or honey over the top and season with freshly ground black pepper. For a spicy kick, sprinkle some chili flakes if you like.
3. Bake the Camembert
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) to 200°C (400°F), depending on your oven type (fan ovens usually require a slightly lower temperature).
Place the Camembert (in its box or dish) on a baking tray. If using the wooden box, wrap it tightly in foil to prevent leaks.
Bake for about 15-20 minutes. The cheese is ready when the top is golden and the interior feels soft and gooey, like a waterbed when gently pressed. Avoid overbaking, which can cause the cheese to harden again.
4. Serve Immediately
Once baked, let the cheese cool for a minute or two, then serve warm with your choice of dippers. The melted Camembert is perfect for spreading on crusty baguette slices, crackers, or even dipping fresh fruits like apple slices or grapes.
Flavor Variations and Tips
– Garlic and Herb: Classic and aromatic, garlic combined with thyme or rosemary is a foolproof way to elevate the cheese.
– Honey and Chili: Drizzle honey for sweetness and add chili flakes for contrast, creating a delightful sweet-spicy combo.
– Olive Oil and Black Pepper: A simple drizzle of good-quality olive oil and a sprinkle of black pepper enhance the cheese’s natural flavor without overpowering it.
– Sun-Dried Tomatoes or Za’atar: For a Mediterranean twist, add sun-dried tomatoes or sprinkle za’atar spice before baking.
Serving Suggestions
– Serve with a fresh baguette or a variety of crackers for texture contrast.
– Add fresh fruit like grapes, apple slices, or figs to balance the richness.
– Include cured meats, cornichons, or chutneys on the side for a full cheese board experience.
– A green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs well to cut through the richness of the cheese.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Camembert cheese by baking is a simple way to turn an everyday cheese into a decadent treat. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy a warm, gooey delight that’s perfect for sharing or savoring solo.
Baked Camembert is truly a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and elegance to any occasion. Enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth magic!