Crispy Camembert Parcels
These delightful Crispy Camembert Parcels feature creamy, melted Camembert cheese encased in a golden, flaky puff pastry shell, often served with a sweet accompaniment like honey or fruit jam. They make for an elegant yet easy-to-prepare French appetizer, perfect for entertaining. Camembert, a soft, creamy cow's milk cheese, is a quintessential French product, originating from Normandy. While traditionally enjoyed on a cheese board, incorporating it into warm, crispy pastries like these croustillants offers a modern and popular way to enjoy its rich flavor as a starter, showcasing French culinary ingenuity in elevating simple ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 wheel (250g/8.8 oz) Camembert cheese
- 1 sheet (approx. 250-300g) Puff pastry
- 1 Large egg
- 2 tablespoons (for serving) Honey or fig jam
- 1 sprig (optional, for garnish) Fresh thyme or rosemary
- 1 pinch (optional) Black pepper
- 1 for dusting All-purpose flour
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2
Unroll the puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface. Cut the pastry into 4 equal squares (or more, depending on the desired size of your parcels).
- 3
Cut the wheel of Camembert into 4 equal wedges. Place one wedge of Camembert in the center of each pastry square.
- 4
Beat the egg in a small bowl to create an egg wash. Brush the edges of each pastry square with the egg wash.
- 5
Fold the corners of the pastry over the cheese to meet in the center, creating a parcel. Pinch the seams firmly to seal, ensuring the cheese is fully enclosed.
- 6
Place the sealed parcels seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops of each parcel generously with the remaining egg wash for a golden finish.
- 7
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed, golden brown, and crispy. The cheese inside should be melted and gooey.
- 8
Carefully transfer the crispy Camembert parcels to a serving platter. Drizzle with honey or fig jam, and garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary if desired. Serve immediately.
Chef's Tips
- •**Storage**: These parcels are best enjoyed immediately after baking when the pastry is crisp and the cheese is perfectly melted. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days but will lose their crispness when reheated.
- •**Substitutions**: If Camembert is unavailable, Brie cheese can be used as a delicious alternative. For an extra flavor boost, try adding a thin slice of prosciutto or a spoonful of caramelized onions inside the pastry with the cheese before sealing.
- •**Fun Fact**: The distinctive white rind of Camembert cheese is formed by a fungus called Penicillium camemberti, which contributes to its unique flavor and creamy texture.
- •**Serving Suggestion**: Pair these warm parcels with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheese.
Recommended Equipment
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