Camembert with Honey and Thyme

Name: Camembert with Honey and Thyme
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: Serves 2
Ingredients: 1 round Camembert cheese; 2 tablespoons honey; Fresh thyme sprigs; Crackers or sliced baguette for serving

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love serving warm, gooey Camembert with honey and fresh thyme for a delightful appetizer. The combination of the buttery cheese with the sweet honey and aromatic herbs creates a flavor explosion that always garners compliments. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that I often prepare for friends and family gatherings. Just 20 minutes is all it takes to elevate your cheese game! Whether it's a cozy night in or a special occasion, this recipe never disappoints.

Created by

Keira Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-07T11:55:16.068Z

When I first made Camembert with Honey and Thyme, I was amazed at how such a simple dish could impress so much. The cheese melts beautifully in the oven, creating a creamy dip paired perfectly with crispy bread or crackers. I've learned that drizzling the honey just before serving adds an extra layer of warmth, making each bite irresistible.

One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is the versatility it offers. You can easily swap out thyme for rosemary or add nuts for texture. Experimenting with different combinations has turned this dish into a staple in my home, always bringing smiles to my guests' faces.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Luxuriously warm and gooey texture that’s irresistible.
Sweet and herbal notes create a harmonious flavor balance.
Perfect for sharing at gatherings or cozy nights in.

      

The Perfect Cheese Melting Technique

When preparing Camembert, the key to achieving that luxuriously gooey texture lies in the baking process. It's essential not to exceed the baking time of 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Keep an eye on the cheese as it bakes; it should start to bubble at the edges and look glossy on the surface. If it darkens too much, it may burn, compromising its delicate flavor.

Scoring the top of the cheese not only enhances its presentation but also ensures that the honey and thyme meld beautifully with the cheese. Use a sharp knife to create a crisscross pattern. This allows the flavors to penetrate the cheese and results in a more flavorful and aromatic experience when you dig in.

Ingredient Substitutions and Complements

If you can’t find Camembert cheese, Brie is an excellent substitute for this recipe and provides a similar creamy texture and flavor profile. Additionally, consider experimenting with different honey varieties like wildflower or lavender honey, which can impart unique taste notes that pair beautifully with the cheese.

For a twist on the classic, you might add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze after baking for a tangy finish. Both options elevate the dish and often surprise guests with delightful flavor contrasts.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious Camembert with Honey and Thyme.

Ingredients

1 round Camembert cheese
2 tablespoons honey
Fresh thyme sprigs
Crackers or sliced baguette for serving

With everything ready, you’re just a few steps away from enjoying this delicious dish!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps for making your Camembert with Honey and Thyme.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cheese melts perfectly without burning.

Prep the Cheese

Place the Camembert cheese in an oven-safe dish. Score the top with a knife to allow the flavors to seep in.

Add Honey and Thyme

Drizzle the honey over the top of the cheese, then sprinkle fresh thyme generously.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is gooey and starting to ooze out.

Serve

Remove from the oven and serve immediately with crackers or sliced baguette for dipping.

Enjoy your warm, delicious appetizer!

Pro Tips

For an added touch, sprinkle some crushed nuts on top before baking for extra crunch.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare this dish in advance by scoring the cheese and drizzling it with honey. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just remember to remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to bring it to room temperature, ensuring it melts evenly and thoroughly.

Prepping your accompaniments, like crackers or a sliced baguette, ahead of time can also streamline serving. Consider warming the bread slightly in the oven or a toaster right before serving to provide a toasty contrast to the warm cheese.

Serving Suggestions

For a beautiful presentation, arrange fresh thyme sprigs on the serving platter alongside the warm Camembert. The vibrant green adds a pop of color and enhances the aroma. You can also serve it with a variety of accompaniments such as roasted nuts, sliced apples, or pear chutney, which can complement the sweet and savory notes of the cheese.

Pair this dish with a light-bodied white wine or a sparkling beverage. The acidity in these drinks works wonderfully to cut through the richness of the warm cheese, creating a balanced sensory experience that makes this appetizer not only enjoyable but memorable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, Brie works well as a substitute if you can't find Camembert.

→ How long can I store leftover baked Camembert?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the fridge.

→ What can I pair with this dish?

Fruits like apples and figs, or even a glass of white wine, complement the flavors perfectly.

→ Can I make this in advance?

You can prepare the cheese with honey and thyme ahead of time, but bake it just before serving for the best texture.