This Camembert Pull-Apart Wreath is a cheesy treat that’s perfect for sharing! Soft, gooey cheese is surrounded by warm, fluffy bread, making it a delightful party snack.
I’ve found that it’s hard to resist pulling at those cheesy bread pieces. Just get ready for the fun mess of cheese strings! 🤤 Perfect with a side of jam or herbs!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Camembert cheese: This is the star of the dish! Its creamy texture and rich flavor are what make this wreath so indulgent. If you can’t find Camembert, Brie works beautifully as a substitute for a similar taste.
Puff pastry or pizza dough: I prefer puff pastry for that flaky, buttery goodness. But if you’re looking for a quicker option, pre-made pizza dough is a fine alternative and holds up well.
Fresh herbs: Thyme and rosemary add lovely earthy flavors to the wreath. You can swap these for dried herbs in a pinch, but fresh really elevates the taste. Alternatively, feel free to try sage or oregano.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives this wreath a delightful aroma and flavor. You could use garlic powder if that’s what you have, but fresh really shines here!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Golden Pastry?
Getting that gorgeous golden color on your pastry is all about the egg wash. Here’s how to do it:
- Beat the egg in a small bowl and use a pastry brush to apply it gently over the dough before baking.
- A light coat is all you need—too much can cause it to become soggy.
- For extra shine, you can do a second brush halfway through baking, but watch closely!
This little step makes a big difference in presentation and flavor! Enjoy your beautiful, cheesy creation!
How to Make a Camembert Pull-Apart Wreath
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large Camembert cheese wheel (about 8 oz)
- 2 sheets of puff pastry or pizza dough
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and around 30 minutes for baking, giving you a total of about 45 minutes. The result is a beautifully cheesy pull-apart wreath that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While your oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make clean-up a breeze!
2. Prepare the Dough:
Roll out the puff pastry or pizza dough on a lightly floured surface. Cut it into squares that are about 1.5 to 2 inches in size. This size is perfect for making the pockets that will hold the yummy filling!
3. Position the Camembert:
Next, place your Camembert cheese wheel in the center of the lined baking sheet. This will be the “heart” of your wreath, so make sure it’s nice and centered!
4. Fill the Dough Squares:
Take each pastry square and add a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center. Then, add a pinch of minced garlic and a bit of chopped thyme and rosemary. Fold the dough around the cheese filling, ensuring it’s sealed enough to keep the gooey goodness inside. Repeat this for all the squares.
5. Create the Wreath Shape:
Now, take the filled dough squares and arrange them around the Camembert in a circular wreath shape. They should be just touching one another to create that lovely wreath effect!
6. Brush with Egg Wash:
To ensure the pastry bakes up golden and beautiful, brush the tops and edges of the dough with the egg wash. This will give it that lovely shine and color!
7. Season and Add Flavor:
Sprinkle the entire wreath with any remaining thyme and rosemary. Drizzle a little olive oil or melted butter on top, and season with salt and pepper to taste. This will enhance the flavors and make everything delicious!
8. Bake:
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for that perfect moment when the pastry is puffy and golden brown, and the cheese is all melty and inviting!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the wreath from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Warm is the best way to enjoy it, served right with the melted Camembert in the center for easy dipping!
10. Pull Apart and Savor:
Now for the best part! Pull apart the cheesy squares, dip them into the creamy Camembert, and enjoy this gooey, cheesy treat!
Enjoy your Camembert Pull-Apart Wreath as a fantastic appetizer or party snack, perfect for sharing (or not)! It’s delicious, fun, and utterly delightful!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! If Camembert isn’t available, Brie is a great alternative since it has a similar texture and flavor. Other soft cheeses like goat cheese or even a sharp cheddar can work too, but keep in mind that the melting quality may vary.
Is It Possible to Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the wreath up to the assembly point and cover it tightly in the fridge for a few hours. Just add a little baking time if it goes into the oven cold. Pre-baking isn’t recommended as the dough may become soggy.
How Should Leftovers Be Stored?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This helps maintain the puffiness of the pastry!
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Dish?
This cheesy wreath is best enjoyed warm, right out of the oven. Serve it with some fresh bread, crackers, or even fruit preserves to complement the rich flavors of the cheese!
