Baked Camembert with Cranberry Compote

Name: Baked Camembert with Cranberry Compote
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole Camembert cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 clove garlic, minced; Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish; 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup water; 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Recipes

Indulge in the warm and creamy delight of Baked Camembert paired perfectly with a sweet and tangy cranberry compote.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-12T20:45:49.260Z

This Baked Camembert with Cranberry Compote is the perfect appetizer for any gathering. Its creamy texture and rich flavor are sure to impress your guests!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Warm, gooey cheese that pairs beautifully with sweet and tart cranberry compote
Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute entertaining
Impressive presentation that makes it ideal for special occasions

      

The Perfect Appetizer

Baked Camembert with cranberry compote is the ultimate appetizer for any gathering. Its warm, gooey texture and rich flavor make it a crowd-pleaser, while the tartness of the cranberry compote adds a delightful contrast. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a fantastic centerpiece for your table.

Whether you're hosting a casual get-together or a formal dinner party, this dish elevates the dining experience. It pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments, from crusty bread to crunchy crackers, allowing your guests to indulge in a delightful cheese experience.

Simple Yet Elegant

One of the best aspects of Baked Camembert with cranberry compote is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can create an elegant dish that looks and tastes gourmet. This is perfect for those who want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

The key to this recipe lies in using high-quality Camembert cheese. Look for a wheel that is soft and creamy, as this will yield the best results when baked. The addition of garlic and fresh thyme enhances the flavor profile, making each bite a savory delight.

Versatile for Any Occasion

This baked Camembert recipe is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. Serve it as a starter at holiday gatherings, a romantic date night, or even as a comforting snack on a cozy evening at home. Its adaptability allows you to customize it based on the season or your personal preferences.

Experiment with different toppings for the baked Camembert, such as honey, nuts, or dried fruits, to create your own signature version. The cranberry compote can also be substituted with other fruit preserves, allowing you to explore a range of flavors that complement the creamy cheese.

Ingredients

For the Baked Camembert

1 whole Camembert cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish

For the Cranberry Compote

1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup water
1 teaspoon lemon juice

Enjoy your delicious Baked Camembert warm with toasted bread or crackers!

Instructions

Prepare the Cranberry Compote

In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Set aside to cool.

Bake the Camembert

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the Camembert in a small baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is soft and melted.

Serve

Remove the baked Camembert from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Top with cranberry compote and garnish with fresh thyme. Serve warm with bread or crackers.

Enjoy your delightful appetizer!

Tips for Success

To achieve that perfect gooey texture, ensure that you don’t overbake the Camembert. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking, as it can go from perfectly melted to overly runny quickly. A good rule of thumb is to remove it from the oven as soon as you notice it bubbling.

When preparing the cranberry compote, feel free to adjust the sweetness according to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet compote, start with less sugar and gradually add more until you reach your desired flavor. You can also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete cheese board experience, accompany your baked Camembert with a selection of cured meats, olives, and fresh fruit. This not only enhances the flavor profile but also provides a variety of textures and tastes that your guests will love.

Consider pairing your baked Camembert with a light-bodied white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling wine, to complement the richness of the cheese. The acidity in these wines pairs well with the sweetness of the cranberry compote, creating a balanced and enjoyable tasting experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Camembert with Brie or another soft cheese.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make the compote in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cranberry compote a day ahead and store it in the fridge.

→ What can I serve with Baked Camembert?

Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh fruit for a delightful pairing.