Camembert with Honey and Thyme

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

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore this Camembert with Honey and Thyme recipe, as it transforms a simple cheese into an elegant appetizer that's perfect for any gathering. The creamy texture of the warm Camembert, combined with the sweetness of honey and the earthy flavor of fresh thyme, creates a delightful flavor profile that truly impresses. I often serve it with crusty bread or crackers, making it not just a treat for the palate, but also an eye-catching centerpiece on the table. It's a dish that's both simple and sophisticated!

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-07T11:34:12.492Z

As I prepared this dish, I was reminded of how simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. The warm, gooey cheese melds beautifully with the honey, and the smell of thyme wafting through the kitchen is truly enchanting. I remember the first time I made this for a friend, and the way their eyes lit up in delight.

To get the perfect melt, I recommend baking the Camembert at a higher temperature for a shorter duration. This ensures the cheese remains soft and warm without becoming overly runny. Pairing it with nuts or sliced apples enhances the experience, elevating the entire tasting journey.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Elegant and impressive for entertaining
A delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors
Quick and easy to prepare

      

The Perfect Pairing of Flavors

The combination of honey and fresh thyme atop the warm Camembert is a match made in flavor heaven. Honey brings a natural sweetness that balances the rich and creamy undertones of the cheese. The fresh thyme adds an aromatic element, enhancing the overall experience. For an added layer of complexity, consider using a flavored honey, such as rosemary or lavender, which can elevate the dish and surprise your guests with unique notes.

Additionally, you can experiment with the ratios of honey and thyme. While the recipe suggests two tablespoons of honey, you might want to start with one and adjust to your personal taste. Some people prefer a stronger herbaceous flavor, so add a bit more thyme to suit your palate. Just be cautious not to overpower the cheese, as it should remain the star of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your baked Camembert, presentation plays a crucial role in making it an elegant centerpiece. I love to arrange the sliced baguette or crackers in a circular pattern around the dish, allowing guests to easily access the delicious cheese. You can also garnish the platter with a few thyme sprigs or even some seasonal fruits like figs or sliced apples for an appealing pop of color. These additions not only enhance visual appeal but also introduce complementary flavors for dipping.

Another fun idea is to set out a selection of toppings alongside the Camembert. Offer options like crushed nuts, fresh berries, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a twist. These toppings can add texture and depth, allowing guests to customize their bites and explore different flavor combinations. This interactive element can engage everyone at your gathering and inspire conversation around the dish.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage

If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, you can score the Camembert and add the honey and thyme the day before. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, simply pop it in the oven for baking. This can save you valuable time on the day of your event, ensuring that your focus is on enjoying the company of your guests.

As for leftovers, baked Camembert is best enjoyed fresh, but if you do have some left, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as this can cause the cheese to become rubbery rather than creamy. Remember, it's important to keep any leftovers covered to prevent drying out.

Ingredients

For the Camembert

1 whole Camembert cheese
2 tablespoons honey
2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
Sliced baguette or crackers for serving

Feel free to experiment with different toppings like nuts or dried fruit!

Instructions

Prepare the Camembert

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the Camembert cheese in a small, oven-safe dish. Use a sharp knife to score the top of the cheese in a criss-cross pattern, which helps it melt evenly.

Add Honey and Thyme

Drizzle the honey over the top of the Camembert, ensuring it seeps into the scored cuts. Sprinkle the fresh thyme leaves evenly over the cheese, and add a pinch of salt and pepper for flavor.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is soft and bubbling. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.

Serve

Carefully remove the dish from the oven. Let it cool slightly before serving with sliced baguette or crackers. Enjoy warm!

This dish can be served as an appetizer or alongside a charcuterie board.

Pro Tips

If you like a bit of crunch, consider adding toasted nuts on top before serving. A splash of balsamic reduction can also enhance the flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

A common issue when baking Camembert is the cheese leaking out of the rind. To avoid this, ensure that you're using a high-quality Camembert with a well-formed rind. Scoring the top helps too, as it allows the cheese to expand and melt without breaking apart. If you notice leaks, simply serve in a bowl to catch any escaping cheese, and remember to adjust the baking time if it looks soft before the 15 minutes are up.

Another problem might be overbaking the Camembert, which can cause it to dry out. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking. You're looking for a glossy surface and a gentle wobble—this is the sign that it's perfectly melted and ready to enjoy. If you're unsure, it's better to err on the side of caution and check it a minute or two early.

Ingredient Variations

While the classic combination of honey and thyme is utterly divine, don’t hesitate to switch things up based on seasonal ingredients or personal preferences. For a sweet-and-spicy kick, try adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes along with the thyme. This unexpected twist can provide a lovely contrast to the cheese and honey, appealing to those who enjoy a bit of heat.

If you're looking for a more savory option, consider adding caramelized onions or roasted garlic on top of the Camembert after drizzling honey, creating a rich flavor profile that's still incredibly accessible. This is particularly delicious served with a side of crusty bread. Whether you stick to the original recipe or try these variations, the goal remains the same: to create a delightful and memorable appetizer.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the Camembert with honey and thyme and store it in the fridge until you're ready to bake it.

→ What can I serve with Camembert?

Sliced baguette, crackers, fruits like apples and pears, or even vegetable sticks are great accompaniments.

→ How do I store leftover Camembert?

Wrap any leftover Camembert tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. It can be enjoyed cold, but it's best reheated.

→ Can I use another cheese instead of Camembert?

Yes, Brie cheese can also be used as a delicious alternative, providing a similar texture and flavor.