Pumpkin Baked Camembert
Pumpkin Baked Camembert is a warm, creamy, and flavorful appetizer combining the nutty sweetness of roasted pumpkin with the rich, gooey texture of melted Camembert cheese. Perfect as a cozy snack or elegant party centerpiece, this simple yet indulgent dish is quick to prepare with easy-to-find ingredients, offering a comforting fall-inspired treat that pairs beautifully with breads and fresh veggies.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 1 whole Camembert cheese (about 250g)
- 1 cup fresh pumpkin puree, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled and finely chopped
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (for drizzling)
- Toasted walnuts or pumpkin seeds, for garnish
- Pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (for spice)
- Balsamic glaze or pomegranate molasses (as an alternative drizzle)
- Prepare the Oven and Pumpkin: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly toss diced pumpkin with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the pumpkin on a baking sheet and roast for about 15 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Score the Camembert: Remove the Camembert from its packaging and place it in a small ovenproof dish or the wooden box if oven-safe. Using a sharp knife, score the top rind in a criss-cross pattern to allow flavors to penetrate.
- Layer the Pumpkin and Flavors: Evenly spread the roasted pumpkin over the Camembert. Sprinkle the finely chopped garlic on top, then add the fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for aromatic notes.
- Bake Until Gooey: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is soft and gooey and the pumpkin is warm and fragrant.
- Finish With a Sweet Drizzle (Optional): Remove the baked Camembert from the oven and, if desired, drizzle with honey or maple syrup for a sweet-savory balance. Garnish with toasted nuts or seeds if using.
Notes
- Use room temperature Camembert for more even melting—let it sit out for 15 minutes before baking.
- Do not over-roast the pumpkin; keep it tender but firm to avoid mushiness.
- Fresh rosemary or thyme bring out the best flavors; avoid dried herbs.
- Choose a good-quality Camembert to ensure rich taste and smooth melt.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the cheese warm and gooey.
- Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat gently in the oven.
- Freezing is not recommended as texture and flavor can degrade.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Pumpkin baked Camembert, pumpkin cheese dip, baked cheese appetizer, fall appetizer, creamy melted cheese, cozy snacks