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; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves; Crusty bread, for serving

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I recently discovered the delightful combination of warm, gooey camembert topped with honey and fresh thyme, and I couldn't wait to share it with you. This simple yet elegant dish has transformed my appetizer game, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. The creamy cheese melts beautifully, while the honey adds a touch of sweetness and the thyme brings a fragrant earthiness. It's an indulgent treat that you'll want to make over and over again!

Created by

Isla Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:52:04.996Z

When I first made Camembert with Honey and Thyme for a small gathering, it turned into an instant hit! Watching the cheese melt and transform into a bubbling delight was a sight to behold. The combination of textures and flavors — creamy, sweet, and herby — created a sensory experience that left everyone wanting more.

One tip I learned is to gently warm the cheese in the oven rather than overheat it. This keeps the center creamy and dreamy while allowing the honey and thyme to infuse their flavors. Serve it with crusty bread, and you have a lovely starter!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The balance of sweet honey with savory cheese is divine.
Fresh thyme elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
It's simple to make yet looks impressive on any table.

      

The Perfect Camembert

Choosing the proper Camembert is key to this dish. Look for a cheese that is ripe but not overly runny; a well-aged wheel will have a supple texture that melts beautifully. Many supermarket varieties will suffice, but artisanal cheeses from local cheesemongers often offer richer, more complex flavors. Aim for a middle-ground ripeness—firm enough to maintain its shape but soft enough to achieve that gooey center when baked.

When scoring the cheese, make shallow cuts to allow for maximum honey absorption without compromising the integrity of the wheel. Cutting too deeply could lead to a mess, resulting in cheese oozing out during baking. Additionally, experimenting with the design of your score pattern can also affect how the melted camembert looks on the table. For a rustic feel, go with a simple crisscross; for more flair, try creating a floral design.

Enhancing Flavors

The combination of honey and thyme not only complements the creaminess of the Camembert but also creates a delightful aroma that fills the room as it bakes. When selecting honey, go for a variety with floral notes, such as clover or wildflower honey, to enhance the overall flavor complexity. If you want to get adventurous, try infusing your honey with spices like cinnamon or crushed red pepper for an unexpected twist.

Thyme is essential for balancing the sweetness of the honey. The earthy notes in thyme add depth, making the dish feel more sophisticated than it actually is. Fresh herbs are always preferred over dried; they bring brightness and a vibrant touch. If fresh thyme is unavailable, consider using herbs like rosemary or sage, though they will impart distinctly different flavor profiles. Keep in mind that the measurements for dried herbs should be less than for fresh, typically a third of the amount.

Serving Suggestions

While crusty bread is traditional for dipping and scooping, consider offering a variety of dippers to elevate your serving experience. Airy breadsticks and sliced apples can lend a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese. Adding toasted nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, can also provide a satisfying crunch and balance the creamy texture of the Camembert.

This dish can also serve as a stunning centerpiece for a cheese board. Pair it with a selection of complementary cheeses, cured meats, and seasonal fruits. Not only does this enhance the presentation, but it also allows guests to mix and match flavors to their liking. If you have leftovers, store the components separately in airtight containers; the cheese itself can be gently reheated in the oven, but avoid overheating to preserve its delicate texture.

Ingredients

For Camembert with Honey and Thyme

1 round Camembert cheese
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
Crusty bread, for serving

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Cheese

Place the Camembert on a baking dish. Score the top lightly in a crisscross pattern.

Add Honey and Thyme

Drizzle the honey over the cheese and sprinkle the thyme leaves generously on top.

Bake

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

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving with crusty bread.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can roast some nuts alongside the cheese and serve them as a crunchy side.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftover baked Camembert, store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days. Reheat it gently in an oven or microwave, but be careful not to overheat, as this can alter its luxurious texture, making it too firm instead of gooey.

For an easy make-ahead option, prep your Camembert by scoring and adding honey and thyme a few hours before baking. Cover lightly with foil and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This waiting period allows the flavors to intermingle, making for an even more flavorful dish.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with toppings as well. Adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can introduce a delightful heat to each bite, while a drizzle of balsamic glaze can offer a tangy sweetness that beautifully contrasts the honey. You can also mix in chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture and flavor dimensions.

For a seasonal twist, consider incorporating seasonal fruit like figs or pears. Place slices on top prior to baking, allowing them to bake down and caramelize slightly while enhancing the dish with natural sweetness. These additions not only taste great but also add visual appeal.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your Camembert doesn’t end up gooey and melted, it may not have been baked long enough or at the right temperature. Make sure to check for a soft texture; it should give slightly when you gently press it. Don’t worry if you bake it too long—it may still taste delicious, but it can become rubbery instead of creamy. Adjust baking time as needed next time.

Cheese that leaks too much during baking can often be attributed to scoring too deeply or using a less-than-ideal quality. For a firmer hold, opt for a high-quality cheese and make sure your scores allow for some expansion but not deep gaps. If the top begins to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover it with foil while it continues to bake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, Brie cheese works similarly and can be used as a substitute.

→ How long can I keep leftover baked Camembert?

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

→ What type of bread pairs well with this dish?

A crusty baguette or sourdough bread complements the creamy cheese beautifully.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can prepare the cheese with honey and thyme in advance but bake it just before serving for the best results.