Ingredients

For the Baked Camembert:

• 1 whole Camembert (round, 8-9 oz)
• 1 sheet of puff pastry
• 2 tablespoons of fig jam (or other jam of your choice, such as apricot or cranberry)
• 1 beaten egg (for glazing)
• A few sprigs of fresh rosemary (for decoration)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Puff Pastry and Camembert:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • If using frozen puff pastry, let it thaw in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes until it’s soft enough to handle.
   • Place the Camembert on a cutting board, and if it’s tightly wrapped, carefully remove any packaging.
2. Assemble the Camembert and Jam:
   • Unfold the puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface. Place the Camembert in the center of the pastry sheet.
   • Spoon 2 tablespoons of fig jam onto the center of the cheese, spreading it evenly over the top.
3. Wrap the Cheese in Puff Pastry:
   • Carefully bring each corner of the puff pastry up to the center of the cheese, gathering it at the top like a little bundle. Trim any excess pastry if necessary, so the wrapping is neat.
   • Pinch the edges of the pastry together to ensure the cheese is fully enclosed and there are no gaps.
4. Add an Egg Wash and Rosemary Decoration:
   • Brush the outside of the pastry with the beaten egg, making sure to cover all the folds for a golden, even bake.
   • Decorate with a few sprigs of rosemary, pressing them gently into the pastry to adhere.
5. Bake the Camembert:
   • Place the wrapped Camembert on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
   • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes.
6. Serve:
   • Carefully transfer the baked Camembert to a serving platter. Serve immediately with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh fruit.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving):

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 8g
• Calcium: 15% DV
• Vitamin A: 10% DV

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on the brand of puff pastry and fig jam used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Camembert?

• Absolutely! Brie works beautifully in this recipe, as it has a similar texture and flavor profile. You can also try smaller rounds of goat cheese or other soft cheeses that melt well.

Q2: What other types of jam pair well with Camembert?

• Fig jam is delicious, but other jams like apricot, cranberry, or even raspberry work well. Try a chutney or onion marmalade for a more savory spin.

Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

• You can assemble the pastry-wrapped Camembert a few hours ahead of time. Keep it covered in the refrigerator, then brush with the egg wash and bake when ready to serve.

Q4: Can I freeze the assembled Camembert before baking?

• Yes, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Bake directly from frozen, adding about 10-15 extra minutes to the baking time.

Helpful Tips for Making Baked Camembert in Puff Pastry

• Choosing Your Puff Pastry: For the best results, use a high-quality, all-butter puff pastry. It bakes up golden, flaky, and flavorful, making it perfect for encasing the creamy cheese.
• Customize with Herbs and Spices: Rosemary adds a lovely, earthy flavor, but you can also sprinkle the cheese with a pinch of thyme, black pepper, or even a dash of smoked paprika for a twist.
• Adding Crunch: Before spreading the jam on top of the cheese, add a thin layer of toasted nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans, for extra crunch and texture.
• Prevent Leaks: Ensure that all seams are securely sealed to avoid cheese melting out during baking. For extra assurance, chill the wrapped cheese in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before baking.
• Serving Options: Pair with apple or pear slices, dried fruit, or even honey for a sweet complement. Crusty baguette slices or water crackers are great for dipping and spreading.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, store the baked Camembert in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the pastry may soften upon reheating.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to restore some of the pastry’s crispness. Avoid the microwave, as it may make the pastry soggy.
• Freezing: Freezing after baking isn’t recommended due to texture changes in both the pastry and cheese. Instead, freeze it before baking if you plan to make it ahead.

Conclusion

Baked Camembert in Puff Pastry with Fig Jam is a gourmet appetizer that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. From the creamy, melted Camembert to the sweet fig jam and buttery, golden puff pastry, this dish offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The sprigs of fresh rosemary add a rustic touch and an inviting aroma that enhances the dish’s appeal. This recipe is adaptable and allows for endless customizations, making it a fantastic choice for any gathering or special event. Enjoy this irresistible, crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s ready to elevate your next meal!