Imagine a dish that transforms an ordinary cheese into a luxurious culinary masterpiece - a baked Camembert that promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you straight to the French countryside. This recipe isn't just about melted cheese; it's an elegant symphony of creamy textures, vibrant berries, aromatic thyme, and a splash of white wine that will make your dinner guests swoon with delight. Get ready to elevate your appetizer game with a dish that's as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole camembert cheese
- 1/2 cup mixed berries
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
- 1/4 cup white wine
- Baguette slices for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for gently melting the Camembert without burning it.
- While the oven is preheating, prepare the Camembert. Remove the cheese from its packaging and place it in a small oven-safe dish or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will help contain any melted cheese.
- Using a sharp knife, make a few shallow cuts on the top of the Camembert in a crisscross pattern. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the cheese as it bakes.
- Sprinkle the fresh thyme evenly over the top of the cheese, ensuring it gets into the cuts you made. The thyme will infuse the cheese with a lovely herbal aroma as it bakes.
- Pour the white wine over the cheese, allowing it to seep into the cuts and around the edges. The wine will add depth to the flavor and help create a creamy texture.
- Scatter the mixed berries around the cheese in the dish. You can use a combination of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries, depending on your preference. The berries will provide a sweet and tangy contrast to the rich cheese.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is soft and gooey. You can check for doneness by gently pressing on the cheese; it should feel very soft to the touch.
- While the Camembert is baking, slice the baguette into thin pieces. You can toast the slices lightly in the oven for a few minutes if you prefer a crispier texture.
- Once the Camembert is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a minute. This will make it easier to serve.
- Serve the baked Camembert warm, accompanied by the baguette slices. Use a small spoon or knife to scoop out the melted cheese and enjoy it with the berries. The combination of flavors and textures will be delightful!
Tips
- Choose a high-quality, ripe Camembert for the best flavor and melting consistency.
- Use fresh thyme leaves for maximum aromatic impact.
- Select ripe, seasonal berries to complement the cheese's richness.
- Don't overbake - the cheese should be soft and gooey, not completely liquefied.
- Serve immediately after baking for the most luxurious texture.
- Experiment with different wine varieties to find your perfect pairing.
- For a more rustic presentation, bake the Camembert in its original wooden box (if it comes with one).
- Let the cheese rest for 1-2 minutes after baking to achieve the perfect consistency.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 16g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 19g
Cholesterol: 95mg
