Ever wondered what happiness looks like? Spoiler alert: it’s round, creamy, and starts oozing the moment you cut into it! If you’ve never experienced the joy of a baked Camembert, you’re about to discover why this classic is the ultimate crowd-pleaser!
In case you did not know, baking a Camembert is super easy, but if you are going to do something properly, this is the dish that you want to perfect! Get the best out of the tips and suggestions below!
The Secret to Perfectly Baked Camembert: Maturation Matters
For the best melt, select a well-matured Camembert, typically one that is 2-3 weeks prior to the best before date, to give you that luscious, gooey texture without turning oily or splitting. And here is a pro tip: let the Camembert sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking. This helps it melt evenly and ensures maximum creaminess. We recommend Le Rustique Camembert for an Authentic Taste of France. This cheese is rich and creamy, offering a robust yet a smooth taste that is truly irresistible.
Topping Suggestions
You want your Camembert to be full of flavours that you love. Here are some of the classics that you definitely want to try:
- Garlic, rosemary, and honey. This is a classic version and perfect for a winter warming dish. You simply cannot go wrong with this one as the balance of flavours is perfect with the Camembert. It’s highly recommended, so a must try!
- Shallots and balsamic vinegar. The sweet and tangy balsamic vinegar combines very well with the mild sweetness of the cooked shallots. This topping combination is amazing for the rich and creamy cheese.
- Croutons, nuts, and fruits. This is a pure cheese feast. Invite friends and family for a winter evening and surprise them with your marvellous cooking skills. Follow the link and it will take you directly to the recipe!
- Chili flakes and honey. This is the easiest way to create hot honey. Mix them and add it on top of the Camembert. It will give you a very subtle spicy kick.
The Five Delicious Ways to Bake a Camembert
Top Tip Before Baking: Gently score the top rind in a criss-cross pattern to allow those delicious flavours melt right into the cheese. For best results, bake the Camembert plain first, then add your favourite toppings for the final 5 minutes of your bake. This way, you will avoid burning or overcooking the toppings and enjoy gooey, flavour-packed perfection every time!
- The Classic Oven-Baked
Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Remove the plastic wrapping and place the cheese in a suitable baking dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes. The result? A perfectly gooey centre, ready for dipping. We would recommend fresh baguette, breadsticks, or crunchy veggie sticks for dipping.
- In an Air Fryer
Short on time? Pop your Camembert in a small oven-proof dish and air fry at 180 degrees Celsius for 10-12 minutes. You’ll get a quick, crispy melt that’s just as satisfying. Try this with crackers or dried fruit.
- On the Barbecue
For a subtle smoky flavour, wrap your Camembert in foil and place it on the grill, away from direct flames. Close the lid and cook for 10-15 minutes. This method is perfect for outdoor gatherings, and it adds a rustic touch. It would taste best with grilled bread or roasted potatoes for dipping; both of these sides could be cooked on the barbecue as well!
No matter the method you choose to bake your Camembert, it will always be a crowd pleaser. It’s creamy, comforting, and endlessly customisable to your taste. These three ways to bake a Camembert can be done all year round, no matter the season, no matter the occasion. So, grab your favourite toppings and let your Camembert do the talking!
