Flammkuchen with Pear and Blue Cheese

Name: Flammkuchen with Pear and Blue Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 ready-made pizza dough; 100g blue cheese, crumbled; 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced; 200g crème fraîche; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh thyme, for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Cooking

I love the crispiness of Flammkuchen, especially when topped with sweet pears and tangy blue cheese. This recipe is a delightful twist that combines savory and sweet elements, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy night at home. The combination of flavors creates a unique taste experience that is both refreshing and indulgent. Plus, it's quick to prepare, allowing me to impress my guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Join me in creating this mouthwatering dish that will surely be a crowd-pleaser!

Created by

Xanthe Beaumont

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:41:36.524Z

Making Flammkuchen with Pear and Blue Cheese has become one of my favorite culinary adventures. When I first tried it, I was amazed at how well the sweet and savory flavors complemented each other. The trick is to make sure the pears are just ripe enough to add sweetness without overpowering the creamy blue cheese.

To achieve the perfect crispy base, I roll out the dough as thin as possible, ensuring it gets that beautiful golden color during baking. I also recommend experimenting with different types of blue cheese for varying levels of flavor intensity. Trust me; it makes all the difference!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors
Crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with creamy toppings
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

      

Mastering the Flammkuchen Dough

While using ready-made pizza dough saves time, rolling it out to achieve the perfect thinness is essential for that signature Flammkuchen crisp. Aim for a thickness of around 3-5 mm. This will ensure even baking and prevent a soggy crust. If you find the dough too elastic, give it a few minutes to rest at room temperature before rolling; this helps relax the gluten and makes it easier to shape.

If you wish to make your own dough, a simple mixture of flour, water, yeast, and a pinch of salt works well. Allow it to rise for about an hour before rolling out. However, when pressed for time, the ready-made option is perfectly acceptable and still delivers a delicious result.

Balancing Flavors with Toppings

The sweet and savory balance is crucial in this Flammkuchen. The blue cheese offers a creamy, sharp flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of ripe pears. To enhance this combination, select pears that are at peak ripeness—they should yield slightly under pressure. If blue cheese isn't your favorite, a milder cheese, such as goat cheese or feta, can be a fantastic alternative, providing a different but equally delicious outcome.

Drizzling olive oil before baking not only enhances flavor but also contributes to achieving the wonderful crispiness of the dough. Don't skimp on the seasoning; a touch of salt and freshly cracked pepper elevates the dish, highlighting the individual flavors of the toppings.

Serving and Enjoying Your Flammkuchen

Serving this Flammkuchen warm will enhance the experience as the flavors meld beautifully when heated. I recommend slicing it into small squares for easy sharing at gatherings. It pairs excellently with a light salad or a glass of white wine, making it an ideal appetizer or light meal option.

If you plan to make this dish ahead of time, you can prepare the dough and toppings separately. Assemble the Flammkuchen just before baking to maintain the crispiness of the crust. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to two days; simply reheat in a hot oven for a few minutes to recapture that crispy texture.

Ingredients

For the Flammkuchen

1 ready-made pizza dough
100g blue cheese, crumbled
2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
200g crème fraîche
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh thyme, for garnish

Make sure to use fresh, ripe pears for the best flavor.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F).

Prepare the Dough

Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thinness, ensuring it's roughly rectangular.

Spread the Crème Fraîche

Spread the crème fraîche evenly over the prepared dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

Add Toppings

Press the crumbled blue cheese and sliced pears gently into the crème fraîche. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes until the crust is golden brown and crispy.

Serve Warm

Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh thyme, and slice into pieces to serve warm.

Enjoy your Flammkuchen with a crisp salad or a glass of wine!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding caramelized onions before baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this recipe dairy-free, consider using a plant-based crème fraîche alternative, which mimics the creamy texture without compromising flavor. Alternatively, a blend of cashew cream with a bit of lemon juice can offer a similar tangy quality.

For those seeking a gluten-free option, substituting the regular pizza dough with a gluten-free pizza base will still yield a delightful result. Many grocery stores offer ready-made gluten-free dough that's easy to work with.

Perfecting Baking Techniques

Baking at the correct temperature is crucial; too low and the crust won't crisp up, too high and it can burn before fully cooking through. A preheated oven at 220°C (428°F) is ideal for achieving the golden brown crust characteristic of Flammkuchen.

Keep an eye on your Flammkuchen as it bakes. The edges should be golden and the cheese bubbly when done. If you notice the edges browning too quickly, consider rotating the tray halfway through the baking time, as some ovens can have hot spots that cause uneven cooking.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different toppings aside from pears and blue cheese. Caramelized onions, bacon lardons, or even thinly sliced prosciutto can add a lovely savory touch. For a fresh twist, consider adding arugula on top after baking for a peppery bite.

To add a spice element, sprinkle a bit of crushed red pepper or even a drizzle of balsamic reduction after baking for an extra layer of flavor. These variations not only enhance the dish but also allow for personalization to suit your taste preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute with gorgonzola for a stronger flavor or use a milder cheese like goat cheese.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I prepare the Flammkuchen ahead of time?

You can prepare the dough and toppings ahead of time, but it's best to bake it fresh for optimal crispiness.

→ What can I serve with Flammkuchen?

It pairs well with a light salad or a refreshing beverage like sparkling water or white wine.