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 round Camembert cheese (about 250g); 2 tablespoons honey; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves; Crusty bread or crackers for serving

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love indulging in simple yet exquisite dishes, and Camembert with Honey and Thyme is one of my favorite combinations. The creamy texture of the cheese paired with the sweetness of honey and the earthy aroma of thyme creates a harmony of flavors that always impresses my guests. It's a perfect appetizer that requires minimal effort, yet delivers a touch of elegance to any gathering. Each bite transports me to a cozy bistro, and I enjoy how this dish can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Created by

Kayla Monroe

Last updated on 2026-01-07T13:07:12.788Z

When I first tried making Camembert with Honey and Thyme at home, I was amazed at how simple it was to elevate such a basic cheese. Roasting the Camembert enhances its natural flavors, creating a buttery consistency that's simply irresistible. I always make sure to drizzle the honey generously and sprinkle fresh thyme right before serving to truly make it shine.

The best tip I can share is to serve it warm with a side of crusty bread and some fresh fruit. This dish not only looks stunning but also tastes divine. Your taste buds will thank you!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent creaminess with a burst of flavor
Sweet and savory balance with fresh herbs
Quick and impressive dish for any occasion

      

The Art of Scoring Cheese

Scoring the Camembert cheese is a crucial step in this recipe. By making shallow cuts in a crisscross pattern on the surface, you allow the honey and thyme to penetrate the cheese while it bakes. This not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that the cheese melts evenly. Remember to avoid cutting too deep; just score the rind to keep the cheese intact during baking.

An added benefit of scoring is the visual appeal. Once baked, the scored pattern becomes an inviting showcase for the honey and thyme, making the dish more enticing. If you want an even more pronounced flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt atop the cheese before drizzling with honey; it enhances the sweet and savory balance beautifully.

Selecting the Perfect Honey

The type of honey you use can significantly impact the overall flavor of your Camembert dish. Light, floral honeys, such as acacia or clover, complement the creaminess of the cheese without overpowering it. For a more robust flavor, consider using orange blossom or wildflower honey; the floral notes will meld harmoniously with the thyme.

If you're looking for a bit of kick, infused honeys with chili or spices can provide an exciting twist. Just be mindful of the amount you use, as you don’t want to drown out the subtle flavors of the cheese. I often experiment by mixing a teaspoon of lavender honey for a unique aromatic experience.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing this baked Camembert with the right accompaniments can elevate your appetizer into a complete experience. Crusty bread is a classic choice, but consider serving it alongside fig or apricot preserves to add another layer of sweetness and texture. For added crunch, include nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts for contrast against the creamy cheese.

If you're hosting a gathering, presenting the Camembert on a wooden cheese board with various dips can create a beautiful centerpiece. You could even include fresh fruit slices, like apples or pears, which bring a refreshing crispness and balance the richness of the Camembert.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 round Camembert cheese (about 250g)
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Crusty bread or crackers for serving

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make a delicious Camembert with Honey and Thyme:

Prepare the Cheese

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the Camembert cheese in an ovenproof dish and score the top in a crisscross pattern.

Add Honey and Thyme

Drizzle the honey over the scored top of the cheese. Sprinkle the fresh thyme leaves generously on top.

Bake

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

Serve

Carefully remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving with crusty bread or crackers.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can also include a sprinkle of sea salt on top right before serving. Try using different types of honey, such as lavender or eucalyptus, to enhance the flavor profile.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning a larger gathering, you can prepare the Camembert in advance by scoring and adding the honey and thyme. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake, which will save you time on the day of the event. Just remember, avoid adding the honey and thyme until you're about to bake to keep the flavors fresh.

Once baked, the Camembert is best enjoyed right away for optimal creaminess. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at a low temperature, approximately 150°C (300°F), until warmed through to preserve its melty texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue is overbaking, which can cause the cheese to become rubbery instead of creamy. Keep a close eye on your Camembert; it should be soft and ooze slightly when done, typically around 15 minutes in the oven. If it starts bubbling aggressively, it’s likely ready to come out.

Another potential problem is the honey running off the cheese instead of melding into it. To prevent this, ensure your honey is thick enough. If you notice it’s too thin, you can warm it gently in a saucepan to thicken it slightly before drizzling over the cheese.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe up is quite simple if you have multiple guests. You can bake several rounds of Camembert simultaneously, just ensure they have enough space in the oven for even baking. I recommend placing them on different racks if necessary, rotating them halfway through to ensure consistent melting.

For large parties, consider pairing the baked Camembert with other cheese options to create a cheese platter. Variations could include goat cheese or brie, which can be prepared in a similar style with herbs and sweet toppings, providing a delightful grazing experience for your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Camembert with Brie or any soft cheese, but the cooking time may vary.

→ Is it necessary to serve it warm?

While it's best enjoyed warm for the creamy texture, it can also be served at room temperature.

→ What can I pair with Camembert?

Crusty bread, fruit, nuts, or even a good red wine complement the dish beautifully.

→ How long can I store leftover Camembert?

Leftover Camembert can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, but it's best enjoyed fresh.