Tear & Share Focaccia Wreath with Molten Camembert

Tear & Share Focaccia Wreath with Molten Camembert

Embark on a culinary journey that promises not just a meal but an experience to savor—the Tear & Share Focaccia Wreath with Molten Camembert. This recipe invites you to partake in a delightful affair of golden-brown dough encircling a gooey, creamy Camembert, where warmth and fragrant aromas embrace your senses. As you create this step-by-step masterpiece, your kitchen will fill with the inviting scent of bread baking, mingling with the rich notes of garlic and rosemary. It’s perfect for gatherings, cozy evenings, or as a memorable centerpiece to any table, making it irresistibly crowd-pleasing.

History / Fun Fact

The origins of focaccia date back to ancient Roman times, where it was often cooked on hot stones and seasoned with a variety of toppings. This versatile flatbread has evolved in many cultures, particularly in Italy, and has taken myriad forms—from simple bread to extravagant creations adorned with herbs, olives, and cheese. The focaccia wreath, with its shareable form, embodies the spirit of togetherness, reminiscent of festive gatherings where food is meant to be enjoyed communally. As for Camembert, its rich history traces back to Normandy, France, where it was first crafted in the late 18th century. Combining these two traditions—it’s not merely a dish; it’s a celebration of culinary heritage.

Ingredients

To craft your Tear & Share Focaccia Wreath with Molten Camembert, gather the following:

• 500 g all-purpose flour: A blank canvas with a soft, silky texture.
• 2 tsp instant yeast: The magic that transforms dough into a fluffy masterpiece.
• 2 tsp sugar: A subtle hint of sweetness that balances the flavors beautifully.
• 1 1/2 tsp salt: Elevates all the other ingredients, enhancing their essence.
• 325 ml warm water: The lifeblood that brings your dough together, activating the yeast.
• 50 ml olive oil (plus extra for brushing): Adds richness and enhances the crust’s golden allure.
• 1 whole Camembert wheel (boxed): A creamy delight that melts perfectly, providing a luxurious centerpiece.
• 1 garlic clove, thinly sliced: Aromatic and savory, infusing depth into the bread.
• A few rosemary sprigs: Fresh and pine-like, these sprigs offer a fragrant kiss.
• Flaky sea salt: A final touch of crunch that complements the softness of the bread.
• Fresh rosemary or thyme: An herbaceous note that layers complexity.
• Optional: honey drizzle or chili flakes: For those wishing to add a sweet or spicy twist.

Cooking Time & Tips for Tear & Share Focaccia Wreath with Molten Camembert

Creating this indulgent wreath can be as quick or leisurely as you wish. A quick preparation allows you to whip it up in approximately 2 hours, including rising time. For those who prefer a more traditional approach, letting the dough rise longer can yield an even more complex flavor profile, enhancing the aroma and texture of your focaccia.

• Tip 1: Use warm water instead of hot to ensure the yeast activates without being killed.
• Tip 2: Knead the dough well; this develops gluten for that lovely airy texture.
• Tip 3: Let the dough rest longer for a more flavorful focaccia. A slower rise will deepen the taste.
• Tip 4: Feel free to customize toppings, whether garlic, nuts, or even sundried tomatoes—each adds a unique flair.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Dough
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt, creating a foundation for your focaccia. Pour in the warm water and olive oil, and stir until everything is just combined. It’s time to roll up your sleeves! Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead vigorously for 8–10 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic. You’ll feel the dough springing back against your hands. Cover it gently with a cloth and allow it to rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, approximately 1 hour.

2. Preheat and Assemble
   Once the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Line a large baking tray with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup. While the oven warms, take the Camembert, still nestled in its wooden box, and place it at the center of your baking tray. Roll the risen dough into 16–20 small balls—think of them as little clouds—and arrange them in a ring around the cheese.

3. Rest the Dough
   Cover the assembled wreath lightly with a kitchen towel and let it rest for another 20–30 minutes. This brief pause allows the dough to puff up slightly, prepping for that beautiful rise in the oven.

4. Add Flavor and Bake
   Before baking, take a sharp knife and score the top of the Camembert, making small cuts. Insert the thin garlic slices into each cut and nestle in the fresh rosemary sprigs—this infuses the cheese with aromatic goodness. Brush the dough balls with olive oil, and sprinkle a generous pinch of flaky sea salt and additional herbs on top. Place the tray in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and the Camembert is beautifully molten.

5. Serve and Enjoy
   Once baked to perfection, remove the tray from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Transfer the wreath to a rustic wooden board or a large serving platter. The star of the show, the Camembert, is now ready to be savored. Tear pieces of the warm focaccia, dip into the creamy, gooey center, and enjoy the explosion of textures and flavors while everything is still warm.

Serving Suggestions & Occasions

The Tear & Share Focaccia Wreath with Molten Camembert is perfect for various occasions—be it an intimate dinner party, a festive holiday gathering, or a casual treat with friends. Pair it with a refreshing green salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette for a balanced meal. For a cozy autumn or winter evening, serve it alongside a hearty soup or as a joyful appetizer before a festive main course. Don’t forget to offer a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a delightful contrast to the rich cheese!

Common Mistakes for Tear & Share Focaccia Wreath with Molten Camembert

• Not Kneading Enough: Failure to knead the dough thoroughly can lead to a dense focaccia. Make sure your dough is elastic and smooth before letting it rise.
• Skipping the Rising Time: Insufficient rising time will make your dough less airy. Patience is critical for achieving the perfect texture.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on your focaccia; ovens vary. Test for doneness by checking if it’s golden and the cheese is bubbling.

Healthier Alternatives & Variations

For a healthier version, consider using whole-wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, which adds a nutty flavor and more fiber. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as Brie or goat cheese, for a twist. For a vegan-friendly option, replace the Camembert with a homemade cashew cheese and use plant-based milk for dough preparation. Seasonal vegetables like cherry tomatoes, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes can also be mixed into the dough or used as toppings for extra flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare the dough in advance?
   Absolutely! You can make the dough a day before and store it in the refrigerator. Bring it back to room temperature before shaping.

2. How can I keep leftovers fresh?
   Store any leftovers covered in an airtight container at room temperature. Enjoy within a couple of days. Warm it slightly in the oven before serving.

3. Can I freeze the focaccia wreath?
   Yes, you can freeze the uncooked dough balls after shaping them. Just allow extra time to rise when ready to bake.

4. What can I substitute for Camembert?
   Feel free to use other soft cheeses like Brie or a thick cream cheese as a substitute.

5. What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
   Ensure your yeast is active and the water isn’t too hot or too cold. You may need to place the dough in a warmer spot.

6. How can I make it spicier?
   Incorporate chili flakes into the dough or add sliced jalapeños alongside the cheese in the center for a flavor kick.

Conclusion

This Tear & Share Focaccia Wreath with Molten Camembert is not just a dish; it’s an invitation to gather, share, and indulge in a symphony of flavors and textures. With its heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen and its glorious charm as a centerpiece, you’ll want to try this recipe immediately. So, gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and create a moment that will linger in your memories long after the last bite has been savored!

Print Recipe

Tear & Share Focaccia Wreath with Molten Camembert

A delightful focaccia wreath encircling a gooey, creamy Camembert, perfect for gatherings and special occasions.

Prep Time1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Cook Time30 minutes mins

Total Time2 hours hrs

Course: Appetizer, Bread, Snack

Cuisine: French, Italian

Keyword: Baked Bread, Camembert, Crowd-Pleaser, Focaccia, Shareable Dish

Servings: 6 servings

Calories: 300kcal

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 500 g all-purpose flour A blank canvas with a soft, silky texture.
• 2 tsp instant yeast The magic that transforms dough into a fluffy masterpiece.
• 2 tsp sugar A subtle hint of sweetness that balances the flavors beautifully.
• 1.5 tsp salt Elevates all the other ingredients, enhancing their essence.
• 325 ml warm water The lifeblood that brings your dough together, activating the yeast.
• 50 ml olive oil (plus extra for brushing) Adds richness and enhances the crust’s golden allure.

For the Filling & Topping

• 1 whole Camembert wheel (boxed) A creamy delight that melts perfectly, providing a luxurious centerpiece.
• 1 clove garlic, thinly sliced Aromatic and savory, infusing depth into the bread.
• a few rosemary sprigs Fresh and pine-like, offering a fragrant kiss.
• Flaky sea salt A final touch of crunch that complements the softness of the bread.
• Fresh rosemary or thyme An herbaceous note that layers complexity.
• Optional: honey drizzle or chili flakes For those wishing to add a sweet or spicy twist.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.
• Pour in the warm water and olive oil, and stir until everything is just combined.
• Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead vigorously for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
• Cover it gently with a cloth and allow it to rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, approximately 1 hour.

Preheat and Assemble

• Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
• Line a large baking tray with parchment paper.
• Place the Camembert at the center of your baking tray.
• Roll the risen dough into 16–20 small balls and arrange them in a ring around the cheese.

Rest the Dough

• Cover the assembled wreath lightly with a kitchen towel and let it rest for another 20–30 minutes.

Add Flavor and Bake

• Score the top of the Camembert, inserting the garlic slices and rosemary into the cuts.
• Brush the dough balls with olive oil, and sprinkle with flaky sea salt and additional herbs.
• Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and the Camembert is molten.

Serve and Enjoy

• Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
• Transfer the wreath to a rustic wooden board or a large serving platter.
• Tear pieces of warm focaccia to dip into the creamy center and enjoy.

Notes

Use warm water to activate yeast, knead well for airy texture, and customize toppings as desired.