Camembert with Honey and Thyme

Name: Camembert with Honey and Thyme
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole Camembert cheese; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves; Salt and pepper to taste; Crusty bread or crackers for serving

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore this Camembert with Honey and Thyme recipe. The combination of warm, gooey cheese drizzled with sweet honey and aromatic thyme creates an irresistible appetizer that's perfect for sharing. I love to serve it with crusty bread or crackers, allowing everyone to indulge in the creamy goodness. It’s a simple dish that feels fancy and is perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. This dish truly elevates any table with its delightful flavors and comforting aroma.

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2026-01-07T14:46:14.044Z

Creating this Camembert with Honey and Thyme was a delightful experience. The moment the cheese starts to melt, it fills the kitchen with an amazing aroma that draws everyone in. It's fascinating how simply baking the cheese transforms its texture and flavor, making it so much richer and more complex. The addition of honey enhances the creaminess, balancing it with a hint of sweetness.

One tip I've discovered is to use fresh thyme instead of dried. The fresh leaves release their oils as the cheese bakes, delivering a beautiful herbal note that complements the richness of the Camembert. This dish is not just about taste; it's about creating a warm and inviting moment to share!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously creamy cheese paired with sweet honey
Aromatic thyme elevates the flavor profile
Simple to prepare yet impressive for guests

      

Perfecting the Cheese

Choosing the right Camembert is crucial for achieving that creamy texture and rich flavor. Look for a cheese that is soft and slightly yielding to the touch. If you can find one that's nearing its sell-by date, it’ll have developed more complex flavors—perfect for this dish. Just make sure it doesn't have any strong, off-putting odors, as this may signal spoilage rather than ripeness.

When preparing to bake the Camembert, consider using a shallow dish to allow for better heat circulation. This ensures even cooking and a perfectly melted center. If you find that the outside is browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the center continues to soften.

Honey and Thyme Pairing Perfected

The interplay between honey and thyme is what makes this dish sing. I recommend using a high-quality, runny honey as it drizzles beautifully and infuses the cheese with sweetness without overpowering it. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can also experiment with flavored honeys, such as lavender or rosemary, which complement the creamy Camembert nicely.

Thyme adds a wonderful freshness with its subtle earthiness. If fresh thyme isn't available, a smaller amount of dried thyme can be used, but remember that dried herbs are more potent. Use about a third of the amount called for when substituting dried for fresh to maintain balance in flavor.

Serving Suggestions

For an elevated presentation, consider garnishing the baked Camembert with additional thyme sprigs or a sprinkle of crushed black pepper right before serving. This not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the aroma. Paired with a selection of crusty artisan bread, sliced baguette, or an assortment of crackers, your guests will have plenty of delicious options to scoop up the gooey cheese.

If you want to add more variety to your serving platter, consider including apple slices or fig preserves. The combination of sweet and savory elements alongside the Camembert creates a delightful taste experience. Keep in mind that the cheese is best enjoyed warm, so try to serve it immediately after taking it out of the oven.

Ingredients

For the Dish

1 whole Camembert cheese
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
Crusty bread or crackers for serving

Gather all ingredients for an easy prep.

Instructions

Prepare the Cheese

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the whole Camembert cheese in a small oven-safe dish or on a baking tray.

Add Flavor

Drizzle the honey over the top of the cheese and sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves, along with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is soft and gooey in the center.

Serve

Remove from the oven and serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.

Enjoy this warm, rich appetizer with friends!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, you can prepare the cheese ahead of time by drizzling the honey and adding the thyme just before baking. Store the unbaked cheese in the refrigerator for up to one day. Be sure to bring it to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even melting.

If you happen to have leftovers, which is quite rare, you can refrigerate the baked Camembert for up to two days. Reheat it gently in the oven at a low temperature of around 150°C (300°F) for about 10 minutes, checking frequently until it's warmed through to avoid overcooking.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your Camembert is overly runny when baking, it might be due to using an overripe cheese or baking it too long. Aim for that perfect melting point where the center is gooey yet holds its shape. If you notice the top is browning too quickly, covering it loosely with foil can help shield it while the interior softens.

On the contrary, if your cheese doesn’t melt well and remains too firm, it may not have been creamy enough to begin with. This can happen especially with low-fat varieties. Always choose full-fat or artisan-made Camembert for optimal melting and flavor.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize your baked Camembert according to your taste preferences. Adding a layer of roasted nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, between the cheese and honey provides a delightful crunch. For that extra touch of sweetness, a sprinkle of cinnamon can also enhance the flavor profile.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can offer a spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the rich cheese and sweet honey. These variations ensure that your baked Camembert can surprise and delight your guests every time you make it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, Brie works well as a substitute for Camembert if necessary.

→ How do I store any leftovers?

Store any leftover baked cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the cheese and toppings ahead of time, then bake right before serving.

→ What can I serve with the cheese?

Pair it with assorted crackers, sliced fruits, or a simple salad for a complete appetizer spread.