Baked Camembert

Indulge in a delightful and comforting appetizer that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family – Baked Camembert. This classic dish features a wheel of creamy Camembert cheese baked until gooey and molten, then served with an array of delicious accompaniments. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply craving a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this decadent treat.

**Baked Camembert**

**Ingredients:**
– 1 whole Camembert cheese (about 8 oz)
– 2 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– Baguette slices, crackers, or breadsticks, for serving

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat the Oven:** Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) to ensure it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the Camembert.

2. **Prepare the Cheese:** Unwrap the Camembert and place it back in its wooden box, or if it’s without a box, set it on a baking dish lined with parchment paper.

3. **Add Flavor:** Using a sharp knife, make small slits on the top of the Camembert and insert the garlic slices and rosemary sprigs into the cuts. This step will infuse the cheese with aromatic flavors as it bakes.

4. **Drizzle with Goodness:** Drizzle the Camembert with honey and olive oil, ensuring that the cheese is evenly coated. The honey will add a touch of sweetness, while the olive oil will help the cheese become beautifully gooey.

5. **Season to Taste:** Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper over the top of the cheese to add a hint of spice and depth of flavor.

6. **Bake to Perfection:** Place the Camembert in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is soft and gooey to your liking. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook.

7. **Serve and Enjoy:** Once the Camembert is perfectly melted, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve it warm with baguette slices, crackers, or breadsticks for dipping and spreading.

8. **Savor the Moment:** Gather around the table with your loved ones and dig into the irresistible melted cheese, savoring each bite with your favorite accompaniments. This dish is best enjoyed immediately while the cheese is still warm and gooey.

**Bon Appétit!**

Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, a cozy night in, or simply treating yourself to a special indulgence, Baked Camembert is a versatile and elegant dish that never fails to impress. So, gather your favorite people, uncork a bottle of wine, and enjoy the simple pleasures of good food and great company. Cheers to delicious moments shared around the table!