Preheat oven to 400F.

Remove most of the papery wrappers around the cloves, but not too many so that the cloves separate.

Slice the bulb horizontally about 1/4 of the way down from the top to reveal the tops of the cloves

Place the bulbs on foil and drizzle generously with olive oil.Add a few sprigs of thyme (if using) and sprinkle with salt and pepper, to taste. Squeeze the foil shut and cook for 40-50 minutes. Cloves should be soft and golden.

Allow to cool slightly, then squeeze cloves from remaining wrapper and eat on a cracker or use in your preferred recipe.