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: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 wheel of Camembert cheese (approximately 250g); 2 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced; 1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme, chopped; Drizzle of olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Crusty bread or crackers for serving

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love serving this Warm Camembert with Garlic and Herbs as an indulgent appetizer. The creamy texture of melted cheese paired with the aromatic blend of garlic and fresh herbs creates a delightfully rich experience. Whether it's a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, this dish always impresses and is incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients, I can turn a simple cheese wheel into a gourmet treat that is sure to satisfy cheese lovers and impress my guests.

Created by

Maya Richardson

Last updated on 2026-01-07T11:28:07.563Z

When I first made this Warm Camembert with Garlic and Herbs, I was shocked at how simple yet absolutely delicious it was. The combination of roasted garlic and fresh herbs brings out the best in the cheese, creating a heavenly experience. I discovered that using a bit of olive oil helps enhance the flavors, allowing the cheese to melt perfectly.

Over the years, I’ve experimented with different herbs, but I find that a mix of thyme and rosemary works beautifully. The aroma fills the kitchen, and I can't resist digging in with some crusty bread. It's become a staple for gatherings, and my friends always request it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy Camembert that melts in your mouth
Aromatic garlic and fresh herbs for an added flavor kick
Perfectly paired with crusty bread or crackers

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the Camembert cheese, known for its rich, creamy texture and buttery flavor. When choosing your cheese, look for a wheel with a soft rind that feels slightly spongy to the touch. A good Camembert will melt beautifully, achieving that gooey consistency that is so desirable in this dish. Don’t be afraid of getting a slightly overripe one; it often has more developed flavors that enhance the overall experience.

Garlic and herbs are essential for elevating the Camembert's natural flavor. Fresh garlic releases a robust aroma, infusing the cheese with a fragrant essence as it bakes. Rosemary and thyme add earthy notes that complement the richness of the cheese. It's important to use fresh herbs for this recipe; the dried counterparts would not impart the same vibrant flavors. Should you have fresh sage or parsley on hand, they can also be wonderful substitutes.

Baking Tips for Perfectly Melted Camembert

Baking the Camembert requires attention to temperature and time to ensure that it’s heated perfectly. Preheating the oven to 180°C (350°F) is crucial since a consistent temperature helps achieve that ideal melting point. Keep an eye on the cheese during cooking; you want it to be soft to the touch and a little bubbly. If you notice the cheese browning too quickly, you can cover it with aluminum foil to prevent overcooking.

An important technique to note is slicing the cheese in a crisscross pattern before baking. This not only allows for the garlic and herbs to penetrate deeper into the cheese but also ensures that it melts evenly. Be careful not to slice too deeply; you want to create a nice design while maintaining the cheese's integrity. The goal is a perfectly gooey center surrounded by a hint of crust.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 wheel of Camembert cheese (approximately 250g)
2 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon of fresh thyme, chopped
Drizzle of olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Crusty bread or crackers for serving

Instructions

Prepare the Cheese

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Take the Camembert cheese and place it on a baking tray. Carefully slice the top of the cheese in a crisscross pattern to allow the flavors to infuse.

Add Garlic and Herbs

Insert the sliced garlic cloves into the cuts you made on the cheese. Sprinkle the chopped rosemary and thyme over the top, followed by a drizzle of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.

Bake

Place the baking tray in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is soft and gooey.

Serve

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

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes before baking for some heat. Additionally, consider swapping the herbs based on your preference, such as using oregano or basil.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Warm Camembert, crusty bread or crackers are classic choices that provide a satisfying contrast to the creamy cheese. You can also consider pairing it with sliced apples or pears, as their natural sweetness complements the savory elements beautifully. A drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add an extra layer of flavor and a touch of elegance to your presentation.

For a more gourmet touch, consider serving the cheese on a wooden charcuterie board alongside a selection of cured meats and pickled vegetables. This not only enhances the flavor profile but also makes for an impressive visual display. Don’t forget to provide small forks or toothpicks for easy serving!

Storage and Make-Ahead Strategies

If you’re looking to prepare this dish ahead of time, you can pre-slice the Camembert and prepare the garlic and herbs a few hours before baking. Simply cover the cheese with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This can also help the flavors meld slightly for a more intense taste when baked.

However, it’s best to bake the cheese fresh for the most enjoyable texture. If you have leftovers, you can refrigerate the baked Camembert for up to two days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook, as reheated cheese can become rubbery if left too long.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

It’s best to prepare it just before serving, as the cheese is best enjoyed fresh and warm.

→ What can I serve with the Camembert?

Crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables make excellent companions.

→ Can I use this method with other cheeses?

Absolutely! Brie or any soft cheese will work well with similar toppings and baking times.

→ Is it possible to make this dish without garlic?

Yes, you can omit the garlic, but the flavor will be less robust. You might consider adding nuts or dried fruits instead.