What is Petite Camembert?
Petite Camembert is a delightful, small-format version of the classic Camembert, a soft-ripened cheese originating from Normandy, France. While the size is the most obvious difference, with wheels often weighing around 4-5 ounces (115-125g), it embodies all the characteristics of its larger relative: a soft, creamy paste with a delicate, bloomy white rind that is completely edible. The flavor profile is complex, often featuring earthy, milky, and mushroomy notes that become more robust and intense as the cheese ripens.
Many artisan cheesemakers, both in France and abroad, produce their own versions of petite Camembert. For example, Marin French Cheese Co. offers a California-crafted, French-inspired version, while Ile de France produces its own genuine French version. These smaller wheels are designed for convenience and versatility, making them a popular choice for modern cheese enthusiasts who appreciate high-quality cheese in a more manageable portion.
How Petite Camembert is Made
The production process for petite Camembert closely follows the traditional methods used for its full-sized counterpart. It starts with culturing pasteurized cow's milk and adding rennet to form the curds. These delicate curds are carefully transferred into small, cylindrical molds to drain the whey. After being salted, the cheese is sprayed with an aqueous suspension of the mold Penicillium candidum, which is responsible for the characteristic white rind. The cheese then undergoes a ripening process, often lasting a few weeks, during which enzymes from the rind break down the fats and proteins, causing the interior to soften and develop its signature flavor. The small size of petite Camembert can influence its ripening speed, often leading to a creamier texture more quickly than a larger wheel.
Petite vs. Regular Camembert: A Comparison
While the name “petite” might suggest a world of difference, the core characteristics of this cheese remain consistent. The primary distinctions lie in practical and subtle flavor variations influenced by size and ripening.
| Feature | Petite Camembert | Regular Camembert |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Small, typically 4-5 oz (115-125g) wheels. | Larger, traditionally 8-9 oz (250g) wheels. |
| Ripening | Tends to ripen more quickly due to its size, often reaching optimal creaminess in a shorter time. | Ripens more slowly and can develop a more intense, complex flavor profile if aged longer. |
| Best For | Individual servings, small cheese boards, baked cheese appetizers. | Larger gatherings, more traditional cheese plates, recipes requiring a larger quantity. |
| Flavor | Can have a milder, fresher flavor when young, becoming richer and more earthy with age. | Generally exhibits a more pronounced, complex, and sometimes funkier flavor, especially when fully ripe. |
| Texture | Reaches a perfectly gooey, creamy texture from the rind to the center relatively quickly. | Develops a more pronounced 'cream line' beneath the rind as it ages, while the center may remain slightly firmer. |
Culinary Applications and Serving Suggestions
Petite Camembert's small size and creamy texture make it incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Whether served simply or as a star ingredient, it's sure to impress.
Simple Serving Ideas:
- At room temperature: For the best flavor, allow the cheese to sit out for about 30 minutes before serving. This lets the creamy texture and aromas fully develop.
- On a cheeseboard: Pair with a variety of accompaniments like cured meats, sliced apples, pears, grapes, fig jam, or a handful of toasted walnuts.
- In a sandwich: Melted with a smear of fig jam inside a warm baguette creates a gourmet grilled cheese.
- With honey and herbs: A simple drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary complements the rich flavor beautifully.
How to Make Baked Petite Camembert
One of the most popular ways to enjoy this cheese is baked until molten and gooey. Its small size is perfect for single-serving indulgence or sharing.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Remove all plastic and paper wrapping, but leave the cheese in its oven-safe wooden box, or place it in a small ramekin or baking dish.
- Make a few shallow crisscross cuts into the top rind of the cheese.
- Optional: Drizzle with a little olive oil or honey, and add your favorite toppings like sliced garlic, fresh rosemary sprigs, or caramelized onions.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is soft and gooey in the center.
- Serve immediately with toasted baguette slices or breadsticks for dipping.
Pairing with Beverages
Finding the right beverage can elevate the tasting experience. For petite Camembert, focus on drinks that complement its rich, creamy profile without overpowering it.
- Cider: Coming from Normandy, Camembert has a natural affinity for sparkling apple cider, which cuts through its richness and complements its earthy notes.
- White Wine: Crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or a fuller-bodied aromatic Gewurztraminer are excellent choices.
- Red Wine: A lighter-bodied red, such as a Pinot Noir or Gamay, pairs well with a milder Camembert.
- Beer: Darker brews like Stouts or Brown Ales contrast well with the cheese, while a refreshing Saison provides an interesting counterpoint.
Conclusion
Petite Camembert offers all the creamy, earthy richness of traditional Camembert in a delightful and convenient smaller size. Its versatility shines in countless culinary applications, from a simple snack on a cheeseboard to a decadent baked appetizer. Whether you prefer a mild, younger cheese or a more robust, ripened version, the petite format is the perfect entry point. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of French cheese craftsmanship, proving that great flavor can come in small packages. For more information on storing and aging specialty cheeses, visit Cheese Grotto.
Note: While many recipes call for baking Camembert in its wooden box, always check that the manufacturer specifies it as oven-safe. If in doubt, transfer the cheese to a ceramic ramekin.
