Skip to Content

6 Creamy Camembert Cheese Substitutes for Every Recipe

Camembert cheese is known for its soft, bloomy rind and creamy, buttery interior that becomes gooey when warmed. Its earthy, slightly mushroom-like flavor adds depth to cheese boards, baked dishes, and spreads.

However, Camembert isn’t always available, and some people prefer a milder or stronger alternative.

Whether you need a soft-ripened cheese for snacking, baking, or pairing with wine, these substitutes will work beautifully in place of Camembert.

6 Best Camembert Cheese Substitutes

When replacing Camembert, the key is finding a cheese that melts well, has a similar richness, and pairs well with sweet and savory flavors. Some alternatives have a milder, buttery taste, while others offer a stronger, more complex profile.

1 – Brie – The Most Common Substitute

Brie and Camembert are often confused, and for a good reason. Both are soft, bloomy-rind cheeses with a creamy, smooth interior.

The biggest difference is that Brie is milder and less earthy than Camembert. If you enjoy Camembert’s texture but want something a little smoother and richer, triple-cream Brie is an excellent alternative.

Brie melts beautifully, making it a great option for baked dishes, spreads, and cheese boards. Let it sit at room temperature before serving for the best texture. Want more soft cheese alternatives? Check out this Brie cheese substitutes guide.

2 – Saint-André – The Ultra-Creamy Option

If you want a richer, more indulgent alternative to Camembert, Saint-André is the answer. This triple-cream cheese has an ultra-high butterfat content, making it even creamier than Brie.

It has a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth consistency that pairs well with honey, fruit, and nuts. The flavor is mild with a slight tang, making it a great option if you prefer a less earthy cheese with a silkier texture.

Saint-André works well as a spreadable cheese or in baked dishes where richness is key.

3 – Coulommiers – A Richer, Less Earthy Alternative

Coulommiers is a less common, but excellent alternative to Camembert. It is a soft-ripened cheese that’s slightly firmer and creamier than Camembert while having a milder, nuttier flavor.

It melts well and pairs beautifully with bread, fruit, and charcuterie. If you enjoy Brie and Camembert but want something in between, Coulommiers is a great choice.

Because it’s not as widely available, you may need to visit a specialty cheese shop or European grocery store to find it.

4 – Taleggio – The Funkier Option

For those who enjoy stronger, washed-rind cheeses, Taleggio is a great substitute for Camembert. It has a semi-soft, creamy interior, but unlike Camembert, it has a fruity, tangy flavor with a mild funk.

Taleggio melts exceptionally well, making it perfect for grilled cheese, pasta, or risotto. If you prefer bolder cheeses with a smooth, gooey texture, Taleggio is an exciting option.

Want more melt-friendly cheeses? Check out this Taleggio cheese substitutes guide.

5 – Reblochon – The Buttery, Melt-in-Your-Mouth Choice

Reblochon is another soft, creamy cheese that melts beautifully, making it a great alternative to Camembert. It has a nutty, slightly pungent aroma with a rich, buttery texture.

This cheese works particularly well in baked dishes and pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, potatoes, and crusty bread. If you want a stronger but still creamy substitute, Reblochon is an excellent pick.

Looking for more gooey, melt-friendly cheeses? Check out this Reblochon cheese substitutes guide.

6 – Mont d’Or – The Spoonable Delight

Mont d’Or is a spruce-wrapped cheese that is often compared to Vacherin and Harbison, but it also works as a Camembert substitute.

This cheese is extremely soft and creamy when warmed, becoming spoonable and gooey. It has a slightly stronger, woodsy flavor than Camembert but delivers the same rich, buttery experience.

If you’re looking for a cheese that melts perfectly and creates a decadent spread, Mont d’Or is a must-try.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Camembert different from Brie?

Camembert has a stronger, earthier flavor and a slightly firmer texture compared to Brie. Brie is usually milder and creamier, especially when made as a triple-cream variety. Both cheeses have a bloomy rind and a soft, buttery interior.

What’s the best substitute for Camembert in baking?

Brie is the best substitute for Camembert in baking since it melts similarly and has a soft, creamy texture. Mont d’Or and Reblochon also work well, especially if you’re looking for a richer, meltier option.

Can I use Taleggio instead of Camembert?

Yes! Taleggio can be used as a substitute for Camembert, especially in melted dishes. It has a stronger, tangier taste but melts beautifully, making it a great alternative for grilled cheese, pasta, or risotto.

How should I serve Camembert cheese?

Camembert is best served at room temperature to bring out its full creamy texture. It can also be baked for a gooey, indulgent experience and paired with crusty bread, fruit, nuts, and honey for a balanced cheese board.