Baked Camembert with Apples and Caramelized Onions

This baked Camembert recipe is a divine concoction of creamy cheese, sweet apples, and rich, caramelized onions, creating a dish that sings with flavor. Perfect for entertaining or as a luxurious treat, this easy-to-prepare recipe will become a go-to for cheese lovers. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious baked cheese delight.

What is Camembert

Camembert is a soft, creamy, cow’s milk cheese that originated in Normandy, France. It’s known for its edible, white bloomy rind and rich, buttery flavor. Camembert is typically sold in small round shapes and is often enjoyed at room temperature to fully appreciate its complex taste and creamy texture. This cheese has a strong tradition and history, becoming one of the most beloved French cheeses worldwide.

Read more about Camembert and how it’s made HERE! 

Why make baked Camembert

Baked Camembert is a delicious and easy way to transform a simple cheese into a warm, gooey, and flavorful appetizer or snack. It’s perfect for entertaining because it’s both elegant and simple to prepare, offering a rich and indulgent taste experience. Baking Camembert enhances its creamy texture and deepens its flavor, making it an ideal dish to serve with crusty bread, fruits, or nuts. It’s a crowd-pleaser that adds a touch of sophistication to any gathering or meal, appealing to cheese lovers and food enthusiasts alike.

Why You’ll Love this Baked Camembert Recipe

You’ll love this Baked Camembert recipe because it’s incredibly simple to prepare yet delivers a sophisticated and indulgent experience. The combination of warm, gooey cheese with the sweetness of apples and the richness of caramelized onions creates a perfect blend of flavors.

It’s versatile enough to serve as an appetizer, dessert, or part of a cheese board, making it suitable for various occasions. Additionally, the recipe offers room for customization with your favorite herbs or toppings, ensuring it will be a hit among all your guests.

Baked Camembert ingredients

• 1/4 cup of onion confit (or 2 onions thinly sliced and caramelized with olive oil)
• 1 apple, diced
• One wheel of Camembert cheese
• Fresh rosemary or thyme (we love thyme for its aromatic touch)
• Honey or maple syrup for drizzling
• A sprinkle of dried chilli flakes for a hint of warmth (optional)

How to Make Baked Camembert

1. Prep the Camembert:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving that gooey, melted perfection.
• Carefully remove the Camembert cheese from its packaging. If it came in a wooden box, you could place it back in the box for baking. Ensure the wooden box is free of any plastic or wrapping material. If there’s no box, a small baking dish or a baking sheet will suffice.
• Using a sharp knife, score the top of the Camembert in a crosshatch pattern. This technique not only enhances the cheese’s aesthetic appeal but also allows the heat to penetrate more effectively, melting the cheese evenly.

2. Add the Toppings:

• Evenly distribute the onion confit (or your homemade caramelized onions) over the top of the scored Camembert. The sweetness of the onions pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the cheese.
• Next, layer the diced apples on top of the onions. The fresh, slight tartness of the apples cuts through the richness of the cheese, adding a delightful contrast in flavors.
• Sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves (or rosemary, if you prefer). Herbs add a fresh, aromatic dimension that complements the cheese and fruit wonderfully.
• For those who love a bit of spice, a light sprinkle of dried chilli flakes can add a subtle heat that elevates the dish.

3. Bake:

• Place the prepared Camembert on a baking sheet or in a small baking dish and bake in the preheated oven. The ideal baking time is around 20 minutes, but keep an eye on it. You’re looking for the cheese to become soft and gooey inside, with the toppings nicely caramelized.
• After baking, let the cheese sit for a couple of minutes at room temperature. This brief rest allows the cheese to settle to the perfect consistency for dipping.

4. Serve:

• Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the baked Camembert right before serving. This adds a touch of sweetness that ties all the flavors together magnificently.
• Serve immediately with toasted bread or crackers. The warm, melted cheese with its sweet and savory toppings makes for an irresistible dip.

Can You Eat the Rind on the Baked Camembert

Yes, you can eat the rind on Baked Camembert. The rind is perfectly edible and adds flavor and texture to the cheese. When baked, the rind becomes softer and can be easily scooped up along with the gooey interior, offering a complete taste experience. Many cheese lovers appreciate the rind for its contribution to the overall flavor profile of the cheese.

What To Serve With Baked Camembert

Serving Baked Camembert is all about complementing its creamy, rich flavor and gooey texture. Here are some delightful accompaniments:

1. Crusty Bread: Baguette slices or artisanal bread provide the perfect base for scooping up the melted cheese.
2. Fresh Fruit: Sliced apples, pears, or grapes offer a sweet counterbalance to the savory cheese.
3. Nuts: Walnuts, almonds, or pecans add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
4. Charcuterie: Salami, prosciutto, or other cured meats pair well with the cheese’s richness.
5. Jams and Chutneys: Sweet fig jam, cranberry sauce, or onion chutney can enhance the cheese’s flavor with their sweetness.
6. Honey: A drizzle of honey adds a touch of sweetness that complements the creamy Camembert beautifully.
7. Roasted Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or garlic cloves roasted in olive oil can add a savory and sweet element.
8. Crackers: Offer a variety of crackers for those who prefer a crunchier texture.
9. Pickles and Olives: Cornichons, pickled onions, or olives provide a tangy contrast to the cheese’s creaminess.
10. Herbs and Spices: Sprinkle fresh thyme, rosemary, or a dash of paprika on top of the cheese before baking for added flavor.

These accompaniments not only enhance the flavors and textures but also turn the Baked Camembert into a centerpiece for a delightful and interactive eating experience.

How to Store Baked Camembert

To store leftover Baked Camembert, let it cool to room temperature first, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. Properly stored, it can last for up to 3-5 days.

How to Reheat Baked Camembert

To reheat, remove the wrapping, place the cheese in a baking dish, and warm it in the oven at a low temperature until it’s heated through and soft. However, keep in mind that the texture may change slightly upon reheating.

How to Freeze Baked Camembert

Freezing Baked Camembert is possible but may affect its texture. To freeze, wrap the cooled cheese tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer bag or airtight container. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently in the oven. Keep in mind that freezing can change the texture, making it slightly more crumbly, but it will still be delicious.