Camembert Cheese Guide: Flavor, Pairings, and How to Enjoy It

Camembert is more than just a French cheese with a fancy name – it’s a beloved staple in the world of soft-ripened cheeses, known for its earthy aroma, luscious texture, and culinary versatility. Whether you’re building a cheese board, hosting a dinner party, or just craving something creamy and indulgent, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Camembert.

What Is Camembert Cheese?

Camembert is a soft, bloomy-rind cheese made from cow’s milk. It hails from the Normandy region of northern France and is instantly recognizable by its small, round shape and white, edible rind. The interior is creamy, often becoming runny as it ripens, and the flavor can range from mildly buttery to assertively earthy.

A Brief History of Camembert

Legend credits Marie Harel, a farmer from Normandy, with creating the original recipe in 1791. With the support of a priest from Brie, she refined her technique, giving rise to what we now know as Camembert. By the 19th century, Camembert became widely popular throughout France and was later exported worldwide. The iconic wooden box used for packaging was introduced in the late 1800s, making it easier to transport and boosting its global fame.

How Camembert Is Made

The process begins with fresh cow's milk, which is coagulated using rennet. Once the curds form, they are carefully ladled into small cylindrical molds. The cheese is drained over several hours, flipped regularly, and then salted.

It is then aged in humid cellars, where the surface blooms with Penicillium camemberti mold. This mold forms the signature rind and breaks down the interior over time, transforming it into a soft, creamy cheese. Camembert is typically ready to eat within three to four weeks of production.

Flavor Profile of Camembert

Camembert offers a complex and evolving flavor. When young, it is subtle, with notes of cream and fresh milk. As it ripens, it takes on stronger, more pungent flavors reminiscent of mushrooms, truffles, and sometimes even barnyard aromas. The rind contributes a slightly bitter, earthy taste that balances the richness of the interior.

Camembert vs. Brie: Understanding the Differences

Although both are soft, bloomy-rind cheeses made from cow’s milk, Camembert and Brie differ in several ways. Camembert is traditionally produced in smaller rounds, usually around 250 grams, while Brie is made in larger wheels. This size difference means Camembert ripens faster and develops a more pronounced flavor.

Brie tends to be creamier and milder, partly due to its size and aging style. Camembert, with its denser texture and stronger character, offers a more robust tasting experience. Both are exquisite, but Camembert is often the go-to for those who enjoy cheeses with a bit more intensity.

Best Ways to Serve Camembert

Camembert is most enjoyable when served at room temperature. Remove it from the refrigerator at least 15 minutes before serving to allow its flavors and texture to fully develop.

Popular serving suggestions include:

• Baked Camembert with garlic and herbs

• Camembert with crusty bread and apple slices

• Melted over roasted potatoes or vegetables

• As part of a cheese platter with figs, almonds, and cured meats

Ideal Pairings for Camembert

Pairing Camembert with the right foods and drinks enhances its natural richness.

Wine Pairings:

• White wines: Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, or Chardonnay

• Red wines: Pinot Noir or Gamay

Food Pairings:

• Fresh baguette or sourdough bread

• Seasonal fruits like pears, apples, or grapes

• Charcuterie such as prosciutto, salami, or rillettes

• Lightly roasted nuts like walnuts and hazelnuts

How to Bake Camembert: A Cozy Classic

Baking Camembert is simple and incredibly satisfying:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Score the top of the cheese and insert slivers of garlic and rosemary.

3. Place the Camembert back in its wooden box or a small ceramic dish.

4. Bake for 15–20 minutes until the inside is gooey and molten.

5. Serve with warm bread or roasted vegetables.

Storage Tips for Camembert

Store Camembert in the refrigerator, ideally in its original paper or a cheese-specific wrap. Avoid tightly sealed plastic, which can suffocate the cheese and cause it to spoil faster.

Once opened, it should be consumed within 5 to 7 days. Camembert can be frozen, but this affects its texture. If frozen, it's best used in cooked dishes.

Camembert in Cooking

Camembert's rich, melty nature makes it a delightful addition to many recipes:

• Camembert-stuffed chicken breasts

• Creamy Camembert pasta sauce

• Camembert and caramelized onion tarts

• Camembert fondue served with rustic bread cubes

Its bold flavor adds depth to both rustic meals and elegant dishes.

Health Benefits of Camembert

Despite its richness, Camembert contains nutrients that support a balanced diet:

• High in calcium, supporting bone health

• Contains protein for muscle repair

• Includes vitamin B12 for brain function

It is, however, also high in saturated fat, so moderation is key.

Choosing Authentic Camembert

Look for "Camembert de Normandie" with AOP (Appellation d’Origine Protégée) labeling. This indicates the cheese is traditionally made in Normandy using raw milk and follows strict production guidelines.

Industrial versions are widely available, but authentic AOP Camembert offers a superior flavor and texture.

Fun Facts About Camembert

• The wooden box revolutionized Camembert’s global popularity.

• It was included in French military rations during World War I.

• The mold used on Camembert is the same as on Brie, yet the flavor outcomes differ due to production and aging.

Why Camembert Belongs on Your Plate

Camembert is a rich slice of French tradition. With its creamy texture, robust flavor, and versatile use, it’s a must-try for anyone passionate about cheese. Whether you enjoy it baked, paired with wine, or simply on a crusty piece of bread, Camembert delivers elegance and comfort in every bite.

FAQs

1. Is Camembert vegetarian?
Traditional Camembert uses animal rennet, but vegetarian-friendly versions are available.

2. How do I know when Camembert is ripe?
It should feel soft to the touch, with a slight give when pressed gently.

3. Can I eat the rind of Camembert?
Yes, the rind is edible and contributes to the cheese’s flavor and texture.

4. Is Camembert safe during pregnancy?
Raw milk Camembert should be avoided during pregnancy. 

5. What should I do if Camembert smells strong?
A strong aroma is natural as it ripens, but if it smells of ammonia or has unusual discoloration, discard it.