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 round of Camembert cheese; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves; Crackers or baguette for serving

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely adore serving Camembert with Honey and Thyme as a delightful appetizer. It’s my go-to for gatherings or cozy nights in. The creamy, buttery texture of the cheese perfectly complements the sweet, sticky honey and fragrant thyme. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this dish transforms into an elegant treat that never fails to impress. Whether spread on crackers or enjoyed with fresh bread, each bite is a harmony of flavors that’s simply irresistible!

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:07:14.178Z

Creating Camembert with Honey and Thyme in my kitchen has become a cherished ritual. I love watching the cheese bubble and become gooey, perfectly fusing with the honey and herbs. This method really enhances the flavors, as the heat allows the honey to liquefy and infuse the cheese with the lovely scent of thyme. It’s essential to use fresh thyme for the best taste.

One of my favorite tips is to place the cheese in a small oven-safe dish to trap all the drippings. Serving it warm with crusty bread adds a delightful crunch that balances the creamy cheese. It’s a dish that’s not just about taste, but also about creating memorable moments with friends and family.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent and creamy cheese meets sweet honey and aromatic thyme.
Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion.
Elegant presentation that impresses every guest.

      

Understanding Camembert

Camembert cheese is known for its rich, creamy texture and deeply flavorful profile. This cheese originates from the Normandy region of France and is characterized by its white, bloomy rind, which is perfectly edible. When heated, Camembert becomes wonderfully melty, creating a warm dip that enhances the flavors of honey and thyme. Choosing a quality Camembert will greatly influence the overall taste of this dish, so look for one that has a pleasant aroma and a firm, slightly yielding texture.

For the best results, allow your Camembert to come to room temperature before baking. This step ensures even melting and improves the flavors, making each bite a delightful experience. If you're short on time, a quick 15-minute sit-out on the counter works well. Just make sure to check the cheese for freshness; the best options will appear slightly moist and smell soft and earthy.

Honey and Thyme: A Perfect Pairing

The combination of honey and thyme is a match made in flavor heaven. Honey's natural sweetness complements the creamy, rich notes of the Camembert, while thyme adds an aromatic herbal quality that brightens the dish. For a more intense flavor, consider using a flavored honey, such as thyme-infused or lavender honey. These subtle variations can elevate your appetizer to new heights and introduce delightful new flavors that play beautifully against the cheese.

If fresh thyme isn't available, you can substitute it with dried thyme, though you'll want to reduce the amount to about one teaspoon, as dried herbs tend to be more potent. Another interesting twist is to incorporate other herbs, such as rosemary or sage, which can add a different character without compromising the essence of the dish.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

When it comes to serving Camembert with Honey and Thyme, presentation matters. Serve it on a rustic wooden board with an assortment of crackers, slices of freshly baked baguette, or even apple slices for a burst of freshness. Arrange the accompaniments artfully around the cheese to encourage sharing and create a vibrant display that invites guests to dive in.

For a delightful beverage pairing, consider a crisp white wine or a light-bodied red. The clean acidity of a Sauvignon Blanc or the fruity notes of a Pinot Noir can enhance the overall tasting experience. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try a sparkling water with a splash of lemon; it contrasts beautifully with the richness of the cheese and complements the sweet and herbal notes of the dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this indulgent dish:

Ingredients

1 round of Camembert cheese
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
Crackers or baguette for serving

Make sure to have your accompaniments ready for serving!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Camembert with Honey and Thyme:

Prepare the Camembert

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the round of Camembert cheese in a small oven-safe dish. Use a knife to score the top of the cheese in a crisscross pattern.

Add Honey and Thyme

Drizzle the honey over the top of the scored cheese, letting it pool in the scoring. Sprinkle the fresh thyme leaves evenly over the honey.

Bake

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is soft and bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven, let cool for a minute, and serve warm with crackers or slices of baguette.

Enjoy your delicious creation while it's warm!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of sea salt before serving. You can also experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano for variation.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftover baked Camembert, it’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it for a day or two in an airtight container in the fridge. Just be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up to avoid condensation. When reheating, place it in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through, but be cautious not to overheat, as it can change its texture.

For an even longer shelf life, you can freeze unbaked Camembert. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag; just be aware that the texture may change slightly upon thawing. To cook from frozen, simply follow the original baking instructions but add an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled up for larger gatherings. Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need, and bake multiple rounds of Camembert if desired. Each cheese may need to sit a little longer in the oven, so monitor them closely. It’s also a good idea to rotate their position if you're using multiple trays to ensure even cooking.

You may also want to consider creating a cheese platter with various cheeses alongside the Camembert. Including hard cheeses, soft cheeses, and a mix of flavors can create a dynamic tasting experience, allowing your guests to enjoy different textures and flavors as they savor the Camembert with Honey and Thyme.

Experimenting with Flavors

Don’t hesitate to experiment with additional toppings! A sprinkle of crushed nuts, such as walnuts or pistachios, can add an enjoyable crunch. A drizzle of balsamic reduction on top of the baked cheese will add a tangy sweetness that plays beautifully off the honey. Feel free to explore different sweeteners, like maple syrup, for a unique twist on the usual flavor profile.

Another variation is to incorporate sautéed garlic or caramelized onions into the bake for added depth and richness. These ingredients can pair well with the existing flavor of honey and thyme while providing layers of complexity that delight the palate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, Brie makes a great substitute as it has a similar texture and flavor profile.

→ How long can I keep leftover baked Camembert?

Leftover baked Camembert should be consumed within 2 days. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

Crackers, sliced baguette, and fruits like figs or apples pair well with the creamy cheese.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

The Camembert itself is gluten-free, but check your crackers or bread to ensure they meet gluten-free standards.