The Best Pan Fried Camembert With Orange Sauce

Sometimes you may think of some little and simple in cooking and at the same time tasty snack to accompany a bottle of wine. So, my wife and I have recently discovered a snack of that kind called Camembert. It is a soft sort of cheese coated with cheese mold, which is especially tasty when it melts from the inside.

It can be fried or baked. Both ways of cooking are simple enough, but during frying it’s much easier to monitor its condition. And you can fry it in batter, which adds zest to the taste as well as to the appearance of this wonderful cheese. At the same time I‘d like to show how to cook a simple orange sauce, which, by the way, can be used with different pancakes and other food for breakfast.

JUMP TO

Table of Contents

What Makes Pan Fried Camembert with Orange Sauce So Special?

You’ve likely had fried cheese before but pan fried camembert with orange sauce brings a unique blend of luxury and approachability. Here’s why it stands out:

• Texture Contrast – The outer layer is crisp and buttery, while the inside melts into creamy perfection.
• Flavor Harmony – Rich, savory cheese meets bright, citrusy sweetness from the orange sauce.
• Fast Elegance – You don’t need hours. In less than 20 minutes, you’re plating something restaurant-worthy.
• Adaptability – Serve it as an appetizer, a light dinner with salad, or even as a decadent brunch item.

Why Camembert?

Camembert has a slightly stronger character than brie, but it melts beautifully and holds its shape when fried. Its earthy, creamy profile pairs incredibly well with sweet elements, making it ideal for citrus-based sauces.

Why Orange Sauce?

Orange sauce provides acidity and zest to balance the richness of the cheese. It lifts the whole dish, creating contrast without overpowering. You can tweak the sweetness or even add a bit of spice, making it a versatile companion to the cheese.

Ingredients & Tools You’ll Need

Here’s a simplified breakdown of what you need—and why.

🧾 Ingredients Table

Ingredient	Purpose
Camembert (2 wheels)	The main attraction, soft and creamy when fried
Bread crumbs	Create the crispy coating that gives texture and contrast
Fresh orange juice	Adds citrus brightness and tang to balance the cheese
Orange zest	Intensifies the citrus aroma and flavor
Brown sugar	Brings sweetness and caramel-like richness to the sauce
Butter	Creates a rich, glossy base for the orange glaze
Salt	Enhances and balances both sweet and savory flavors
Eggs (for dipping)	Helps the bread crumbs adhere and gives structure to the crust
Oil (for frying)	Needed for pan-frying to golden perfection

🛠️ Tools You’ll Want

• A non-stick frying pan or skillet
• A small saucepan for the sauce
• A mixing bowl for egg wash
• A plate lined with paper towels
• A sharp knife and fine sieve

Step-by-Step Recipe for Pan Fried Camembert with Orange Sauce

This recipe might sound like a gourmet delicacy, but you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to prepare.

Step 1 – Make the Orange Sauce

You’ll start with fresh oranges—about 2.5 will yield the 1 cup of juice you need. Combine the juice, orange zest, brown sugar, butter, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.

Let the mixture simmer on low until it reduces by half and thickens slightly. This should take 15–20 minutes. Once it’s ready, strain it through a sieve to remove zest and pulp for a smooth finish. Set aside and allow to cool while you fry the cheese.

Step 2 – Prepare the Camembert

Slice each wheel of Camembert in half to form two thick rounds. Now take a beaten egg and coat each half thoroughly—including the edges. Roll in bread crumbs, then repeat the process to ensure the seam is sealed and no melting cheese escapes.

This double-coating step is key. It forms the signature crispy “skirt” around the cheese and ensures a clean look and melt-in-the-middle texture.

Step 3 – Pan Fry to Golden Perfection

Pour about ½ inch of oil into your frying pan and heat over medium-high. When hot (test by dropping a few crumbs—if they sizzle, it’s ready), carefully place the cheese in the pan.

Fry each side for 1–2 minutes, just until it turns golden. Then gently flip and cook the other side. The goal is to warm the cheese enough that it begins to swell slightly, but without bursting. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 4 – Assemble and Serve

Now it’s time to bring it all together. Place the fried Camembert on your serving plate. Drizzle generously with your cooled orange sauce. Garnish with a sprinkle of zest or fresh thyme if you’d like.

Pair it with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh greens for contrast. The result is crispy, creamy, and zesty—irresistible on every level.

Pro Tips to Perfect This Dish

Want to take this from great to gourmet? Here’s how:

• Chill before coating – Cold cheese is firmer and easier to slice and bread
• Double-dip your crust – For a thicker, crunchier finish
• Zest first, juice later – It’s much easier and you don’t waste citrus flavor
• Keep heat moderate – Too hot and the crust burns; too low and the cheese won’t melt
• Use fresh juice – Bottled orange juice just won’t give the same depth or brightness

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Approx. Value
Calories	~320 kcal
Fat	25g
Protein	11g
Carbohydrates	8g
Sugar	5g
Sodium	290mg

This dish is rich, yes—but it’s meant to be enjoyed in moderation. Balance it with greens or fruit, and you’ve got yourself a well-rounded indulgence.

FAQ – Pan Fried Camembert with Orange Sauce

Pan fried camembert with orange sauce is one of those dishes that looks and tastes far more luxurious than the effort required. With minimal ingredients and under 30 minutes, you get a plate that satisfies every craving—crunchy, creamy, sweet, and savory.

Perfect for holidays, date nights, or impressing friends with your “fancy side,” it’s a recipe that belongs in your back pocket. Try it once and you’ll find yourself craving it again and again.

Print