Baked Cheese with Garlic Herbs

I still remember the first time I baked cheese at home—walking into the kitchen with a cold wheel of Camembert and wondering if it could really turn into that gooey, golden delight I'd only seen in restaurants. That warm aroma filling the air made me fall in love instantly.

I remember when unexpected guests stopped by, and I threw this together in no time—the bubbly top and the fresh herbs hiding inside made everyone swoon, like magic on a plate.

Ingredients

• Cheese: I always choose a whole wheel of Camembert or Brie in its wooden box because it holds its shape well and melts perfectly
• Garlic: Thinly sliced to melt into the cheese without overpowering it
• Fresh rosemary or thyme: These herbs add just the right earthy aroma and a bit of freshness
• Olive oil: Drizzling it over before baking helps with browning and adds richness
• Freshly ground black pepper: Gives a gentle hint of spice that wakes up the cheese
• Baguette: The perfect crusty partner for scooping
• Crudités: For a fresh and crunchy contrast to the creamy cheese

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Unwrap the cheese and place it back in its wooden box or a small baking dish, removing any plastic packaging.

Prep the Cheese:

Use a sharp knife to gently score a crisscross pattern on top. This allows the flavors to seep in and the cheese to melt evenly.

Flavor It Up:

Slip the sliced garlic and fresh herbs into the cuts. Drizzle olive oil over the top and sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper, creating a fragrant and inviting surface.

Bake to Perfection:

Pop your cheese into the oven. The room begins to fill with the smell of bubbling, melting cheese and herbs—a sign that this is comfort food at its best. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until golden and bubbling.

Serve Immediately:

Once out of the oven, serve right away with crispy slices of baguette and fresh crudités for dipping—each bite a balance of creamy, sharp, and fresh.

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This dish once turned a rainy, gloomy evening into a cozy celebration among friends—sharing laughter and comfort from the warm, bubbling cheese made it feel like home in every bite.

Keeping It Fresh

I always recommend preparing your crudités just before serving to maintain their crispiness, which contrasts beautifully with the soft, warm cheese.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

Beyond baguette and crudités, I loved pairing this cheese with tart apple slices and a drizzle of honey—the sweet and savory combo is irresistible.

A Time This Recipe Saved the Day

During a last-minute dinner party, this baked cheese became the star when all other dishes were running late. It’s unbeatable as an effortless yet impressive starter.

• Keep extra baguette slices warmed in the oven for guests who want seconds
• Try swapping herbs according to season for a fresh twist
• Remember to serve immediately for the best oozy texture

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Thanks for spending this time with me in the kitchen—here’s to many cozy moments with melted cheese and good company ahead.

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ What type of cheese works best?

Soft cheeses like Camembert or Brie in their wooden box are ideal for baking to achieve a creamy, melted center.

→ Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Fresh rosemary or thyme leaves add a bright, aromatic flavor and are recommended for inserting into the cheese before baking.

→ How do I prevent the cheese from leaking too much?

Keeping the cheese in its wooden box or a small baking dish helps contain any melted cheese, ensuring tidy serving.

→ What can I serve with baked cheese?

Slices of French baguette and assorted crudités like carrot sticks and celery complement the creamy cheese perfectly for dipping.

→ Are there flavor variations to try?

Adding a drizzle of honey or a pinch of chili flakes before baking enhances sweetness or heat. Blue or goat cheese can also be used for a different profile.