Microwaving Camembert: The Ideal Timing For Melty Deliciousness

Baked camembert is a popular appetiser or party food. It is a wheel of camembert, often with the top sliced off, that is baked until melted and served with slices of crusty bread for dipping. While oven-baked camembert takes around 15 minutes to melt, it can also be cooked in the microwave in just a few minutes.

How to microwave Camembert cheese without it turning dry, rubbery or greasy

Microwaving Camembert cheese can be a quick and easy way to create a decadent meal, but it can quickly turn dry, rubbery or greasy if not done correctly. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you achieve the perfect, gooey cheese:

Step 1: Unwrap and Place on a Plate

Remove the Camembert cheese from its plastic wrapping and place it on a suitable microwave-safe plate or shallow bowl. This will catch any oils or cheese that might melt out.

Step 2: Cut Slits and Add Herbs (Optional)

Cutting a few slits in the top of the cheese will help it cook evenly. You can also add herbs, spices, or garlic to these slits for extra flavour. Chilli, rosemary, and garlic are all popular choices.

Step 3: Microwave in Short Bursts

The key to successfully microwaving Camembert is to do it in short bursts to avoid overcooking. Start by microwaving the cheese for one minute, then check on it and put it back in for additional 30-60 second bursts as needed. On average, it will take around 3-4 minutes for the cheese to be perfectly cooked.

Step 4: Serve

Once the cheese is ready, pop it onto your table and serve with your favourite bread or crackers. Enjoy the gooey, stretchy cheese!

Tips for Success:

• If you want the cheese to have a baked feel, you can pop it under the grill for a minute or two after microwaving to crisp up the exterior.
• Camembert is a strong cheese that takes on flavour well. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to find your favourite pairings.
• Always pay close attention to the cheese while it is in the microwave. It only takes a few seconds for beautifully melted cheese to turn into a rubbery block!
• Use a decent-looking plate, as the cheese will likely stick to it and you will need to serve it on the same plate.

How long it takes to microwave Camembert cheese

Microwaving Camembert cheese is a quick and easy way to create a decadent meal or appetizer. However, it requires careful attention to avoid overcooking or ruining the texture of the cheese. The time taken to microwave Camembert cheese depends on various factors, and the process should be approached with caution.

Factors Affecting Microwave Time

The time taken to microwave Camembert cheese varies depending on several factors, including the size, weight, and density of the cheese. A larger wheel of Camembert will take longer to melt than a smaller one. It is recommended to microwave in short bursts of one minute at a time, checking the cheese's progress after each interval, to avoid overcooking.

Step-by-Step Guide to Microwaving Camembert Cheese

• Unwrap the Camembert cheese and place it on a suitable microwave-safe plate or shallow bowl.
• Cut a few slits in the top of the cheese. This step allows for the addition of herbs or spices to enhance the flavor. Chilli, fresh garlic, or rosemary sprigs can be added to the slits.
• Microwave the cheese for one minute, then check its progress and put it back for additional one-minute intervals. On average, it takes around three to four minutes for the cheese to be perfectly cooked.
• Serve the melted Camembert with your favorite bread or crackers.

Tips for Microwaving Camembert Cheese

When microwaving Camembert cheese, it is important to follow these tips to ensure the best results:

• Grill the exterior to add a crispy texture: After microwaving, the cheese can be placed under a grill for a minute or two to crisp up the exterior, adding a baked feel to the cheese.
• Add flavors: Camembert cheese pairs well with various herbs and spices. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite flavors.
• Pay close attention: Camembert cheese melts quickly in the microwave, so it is crucial to monitor the process closely to avoid overcooking. Use short bursts of 30 to 60 seconds to maintain control over the melting process.
• Serve on the same plate: The melted cheese is likely to stick to the plate, so it is advisable to use a decent plate that can be used for serving as well.
• Avoid microwaving multiple cheeses simultaneously: Cooking more than one Camembert at a time is not recommended due to the short cooking time required for each cheese.

Reheating Camembert Cheese

To reheat already cooked Camembert cheese, follow these steps:

• Remove the cheese from any plastic wrapping, and ensure there are no metal staples if it is in a wooden container.
• Score the top rind lightly if it has reformed and hardened, allowing heat to distribute more evenly.
• Place the cheese in a microwave-safe dish to catch any oils or melted cheese.
• Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel to retain moisture and prevent splattering.
• Set the microwave to low to medium power (around 30-50%) and heat the cheese for 30 seconds.
• Check the cheese after the initial 30 seconds. If it is not warm enough, continue heating in 20-second increments until it is soft and slightly melted.

Potential Drawbacks of Microwaving Camembert Cheese

While microwaving Camembert cheese is a convenient option, it is important to note that there are potential drawbacks to this method of cooking. Microwaving can cause the cheese to turn dry, rubbery, or greasy if not done carefully. Overheating can spoil the texture and taste of the cheese, so it is crucial to heat it in short bursts and monitor the process closely.

How to reheat Camembert cheese in the microwave

Microwaving Camembert cheese can be a risky business, as it can quickly turn dry, rubbery, or greasy. However, if you're careful and follow these steps, you can successfully reheat your cheese to a warm and soft texture.

Step 1: Take the Camembert Out

Remove the camembert from any plastic wrapping. If it's in a wooden container, make sure there are no metal staples.

Step 2: Score the Top

If the camembert's top rind has reformed and hardened, score it lightly with a knife to allow heat to distribute more evenly. This will also help prevent the cheese from bursting.

Step 3: Place in a Microwave-Safe Dish

Place the camembert in a microwave-safe dish to catch any oils or cheese that might melt out.

Step 4: Cover Lightly

Cover the cheese with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel to retain moisture and prevent splattering.

Step 5: Set Power and Time

Set your microwave to a low to medium power (around 30-50%) and heat the cheese for 30 seconds.

Step 6: Check and Adjust

After the initial 30 seconds, check the cheese by gently pressing on the top. If it isn't warm enough, continue to heat it in 20-second increments until it feels warm and soft. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can spoil the texture and taste.

Tips:

• If you want a crispy exterior, you can pop the Camembert under the grill for a minute or two after microwaving.
• Camembert takes on flavour well, so feel free to experiment with adding herbs and spices.
• Pay close attention to the cheese while it's in the microwave, as it only takes a few seconds for it to overcook.
• Use a decent-looking plate, as the cheese will likely stick to it.
• Reheat in short bursts to avoid overheating.

How to prevent Camembert cheese from overcooking in the microwave

Microwaving Camembert cheese is a quick and easy way to create a decadent snack or appetiser. However, it is important to be cautious to avoid overcooking, which can result in a dry, rubbery, or greasy texture. Here are some tips to prevent overcooking and ensure perfectly melted Camembert:

• Unwrap and Place on a Suitable Plate or Stand: Remove the Camembert from its packaging and place it on a microwave-safe shallow bowl or plate.
• Cut Slits and Add Herbs (Optional): Cutting a few slits in the top of the cheese allows you to add herbs for extra flavour. Chilli, fresh garlic, or rosemary sprigs work well. However, this step is optional and can be skipped if desired.
• Microwave in Short Bursts: Instead of microwaving for a long duration, heat the Camembert in short intervals of around one minute at a time. Check the cheese after each interval to ensure it doesn't overcook. The total cooking time will depend on the size, weight, and density of the cheese.
• Avoid Multiple Camemberts: If cooking more than one Camembert, avoid microwaving them simultaneously. Cook them one at a time to ensure better control over the cooking process.
• Use Low to Medium Power: Use a lower power setting on your microwave, around 30-50% power. This helps to avoid overcooking and preserves the texture of the cheese.
• Cover Lightly: Covering the cheese with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel helps retain moisture and prevent splattering.
• Check Frequently: Camembert can quickly turn from melted to overcooked. Check the cheese frequently during the microwaving process to avoid overcooking. Use short intervals of 20-30 seconds and press the cheese gently to check its consistency.
• Stop Microwaving When Soft: Once the Camembert feels warm and soft to the touch, remove it from the microwave. It should be slightly melted but not greasy or separated.
• Grill for a Baked Feel: If desired, you can pop the Camembert under the grill for a minute or two after microwaving to crisp up the exterior and give it a baked appearance.

By following these tips, you can successfully melt Camembert cheese in the microwave while avoiding overcooking. Remember to pay close attention and adjust the timing based on the size and characteristics of your cheese. Enjoy your perfectly melted Camembert!

What to serve with microwaved Camembert cheese

Microwaved Camembert cheese is a quick, easy, and delicious snack or appetiser. It is best served with fresh or toasted bread, crackers, or breadsticks. For a healthier option, you can also serve it with carrot and cucumber slices.

If you want to serve something more substantial, you can serve the microwaved Camembert as part of a charcuterie board with cured meats, fruits, nuts, and honey. Classic cheese pairings include prosciutto, salami, chorizo, and bresaola. For fruits, apples, pears, figs, apricots, peaches, berries, and citrus fruits like oranges are good options. As for nuts, walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, and pistachios pair well with Camembert.

You can also serve the microwaved Camembert as part of a full entertaining platter with grapes, pear or strawberry slices, dried apricots, and nuts such as almonds and walnuts. Add your favourite charcuterie—prosciutto, salami, and so on.

If you want to serve the microwaved Camembert as a starter, you can pair it with Prawn Cocktail Canapés, Smoked Salmon Canapés, Sausage Rolls, Brie and Cranberry Bites, or Slow Cooker Ham.

Frequently asked questions