This Baked Camembert with Rosemary is a fantastic choice for a holiday appetizer. Delightfully creamy and easy to prepare, it bakes beautifully in its wooden box, making serving a breeze. Get creative with your presentation like I did, and you’ll be all set for festive gatherings!

This season is a wonderful mix of cheerful chaos and tranquil moments. I, for one, am embracing it all. As 2020 comes to a close, I know this year will certainly be remembered.

While I wrap up some last-minute Christmas preparations, I’m eagerly awaiting the arrival of dear friends for our Christmas Eve gathering.

But first, let’s focus on this incredibly simple yet fancy Baked Camembert with Rosemary. This might just be what you need to elevate your holiday feasts!

Ingredients

• 250 g round of Camembert
• Drizzle of olive oil
• A few sprigs of rosemary

To Decorate the Platter

• Caramelized onions
• Grapes
• Pomegranate seeds
• A few extra rosemary sprigs

Don’t forget, the complete recipe with all instructions is located in the recipe card at the end of this article.

How to Bake the Camembert

This recipe’s simplicity is one of its greatest charms. If you’re short on time but still want to impress your guests, this one is for you! Not only is it delicious, but it also looks gorgeous on any platter.

• Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Unwrap the Camembert from its plastic packaging and return it to the wooden box. Place the box on a baking tray. Note: If your cheese didn’t come in a wooden box, simply place it on a sheet of parchment paper on your baking sheet instead.
• Pop it in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and gooey inside.

Baked Camembert: Ready to Enjoy

This dish is pure delight—seriously! If you haven’t savored baked Camembert before, now is the perfect occasion. You can serve it simply with crackers or bread, or go all out like I did with a more elaborate setup. It’s a perfect alternative to a traditional cheese board.

How to Dress Up Your Platter

You can certainly keep it simple by serving the baked Camembert with crackers or bread, but if you prefer a touch of elegance, here’s how to dress it up!

For this platter, I used a few delightful ingredients: caramelized onions, gourmet crackers with sultanas, fresh grapes, pomegranate seeds, and some extra sprigs of rosemary.

How to Caramelize Onions

Caramelized onions are a staple in my kitchen! They can elevate almost any dish, and I plan to share a dedicated post on them soon. For now, here’s how you can make them:

• Begin by peeling and thinly slicing an onion.
• Heat a skillet over high heat and add a teaspoon of olive oil.
• Once the oil is hot, toss in the sliced onions and stir them around. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to brown.
• Turn the heat to medium and add a splash of water if they begin to stick. Cook for an additional 20 minutes or so, until the onions are completely soft and reach a dark caramel hue. They should have a sweet taste once finished.

A Few Other Appetizers You Might Like to Try

And there you have it! This festive Baked Camembert with Rosemary is a wonderful appetizer for the holiday season.

Before I sign off, I want to take a moment to cherish the upcoming days with my family and friends. While this year may bring unique challenges, it still holds countless reasons to be grateful. Thank you all for your incredible support in 2020! It’s been a bustling year, and I look forward to what 2021 has in store.

Merry Christmas, friends!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I store leftover baked Camembert?

Store any leftover baked Camembert in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven before serving again.

2. Can I use another type of cheese instead of Camembert?

Yes! Brie is a great alternative and offers a similarly creamy texture.

3. What can I serve with baked Camembert besides crackers?

Consider serving it with bread sticks, fresh fruit like apples or pears, or even nuts for added texture.

4. Is there a vegetarian option for caramelized onions?

Absolutely! Caramelized onions are vegetarian-friendly as they are simply made from onions and olive oil. Add a splash of vegetable broth instead of water if desired.

5. Can I prepare baked Camembert ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the toppings and platter in advance to save time. Just bake the Camembert before serving.