Flammkuchen with Pear and Blue Cheese

Name: Flammkuchen with Pear and Blue Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pre-made pizza dough or homemade dough; 1 cup crème fraîche; 1 large pear, thinly sliced; 100g blue cheese, crumbled; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish

Highlighted under: World Kitchen

I’m excited to share this Flammkuchen with Pear and Blue Cheese recipe, which has quickly become a favorite in our household. The combination of sweet, juicy pears and the rich, tangy flavor of blue cheese creates a delightful contrast that I can't resist. The crispy, thin crust is a perfect base for these flavors, and it’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress everyone and leave them wanting more.

Created by

Jessamine Ford

Last updated on 2026-01-08T16:09:35.241Z

When I first made Flammkuchen, I was surprised by how simple yet impressively delicious it turned out. The method involves a very straightforward process of rolling out the dough and layering on the toppings, but the key lies in using the freshest ingredients. I experimented with various toppings, but the pairing of sweet pears and blue cheese was a standout combination that I couldn't get enough of.

One tip that I always share is to pre-bake the crust for a few minutes before adding the toppings. This ensures that the crust achieves that perfect crispiness while preventing it from becoming soggy with the moisture from the pears. It’s a small step that makes a huge difference!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously balanced flavors of sweet pears and tangy blue cheese
Crispy, homemade dough that's easy to prepare
A great appetizer or light meal that's visually stunning

      

Flavors That Harmonize

The pairing of sweet pears and sharp blue cheese in this Flammkuchen creates a delightful flavor journey. The natural sweetness of the pears balances the saltiness and creaminess of the blue cheese, making each bite a complex yet harmonious experience. When selecting pears for this dish, opt for a variety such as Bartlett or Bosc, as they maintain their shape during baking while providing a juicy texture that enhances the overall taste.

Blue cheese adds depth but can be quite strong, so feel free to adjust the amount according to your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder cheese, consider substituting with a goat cheese or feta; these alternatives will still provide richness without overwhelming the sweetness of the pears.

Preparing the Dough

Whether you choose to use pre-made dough or make your own, rolling the dough thinly is crucial for achieving the traditional Flammkuchen texture. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch; this ensures a crispy crust that effectively holds up to the toppings without becoming soggy. If you find your dough sticking, a light dusting of flour on the surface and the dough can help it roll out more easily.

If using homemade dough, let it rest for a few minutes after kneading to relax the gluten. This makes it easier to roll out and helps prevent it from shrinking back when you shape it. A well-prepared dough provides the perfect canvas for your beautiful toppings.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious Flammkuchen with Pear and Blue Cheese:

Flammkuchen Ingredients

1 pre-made pizza dough or homemade dough
1 cup crème fraîche
1 large pear, thinly sliced
100g blue cheese, crumbled
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish

Make sure to have all these ingredients ready for a seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Flammkuchen:

Prepare the Dough

Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F). Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface until it's thin and evenly shaped.

Add Crème Fraîche

Spread the crème fraîche evenly over the surface of the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

Layer Toppings

Evenly distribute the sliced pears and crumbled blue cheese over the crème fraîche layer.

Season and Drizzle

Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top, then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.

Bake

Place the flammkuchen on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs, slice, and serve warm.

Enjoy your homemade Flammkuchen with Pear and Blue Cheese!

Pro Tips

Make sure to use a sharp knife when slicing the pear for even thickness to ensure optimal cooking and tenderness.

Serving Suggestions

Flammkuchen is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. For a more substantial meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad with a light vinaigrette that can cut through the richness of the cheese. Alternatively, slicing it into smaller pieces makes it a fantastic appetizer for entertaining guests, accompanied by a glass of white wine or a craft beer that pairs well with the dish's flavors.

You may also want to experiment with complementary toppings, such as caramelized onions or arugula, that enhance the sweet-savory profile of the Flammkuchen. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly if you add any additional ingredients to ensure everything is cooked evenly.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the crispy texture, reheat your Flammkuchen in a hot oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and the crust is back to its original crunch. Avoid using the microwave, as this can make the crust chewy.

For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the crust and have your toppings ready to go. Assemble the Flammkuchen just before baking to ensure the freshest and crispiest results. This way, you can enjoy a homemade taste without the stress of last-minute preparations, making it ideal for busy weeknights or hosting friends.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While blue cheese adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with goat cheese or feta for a different taste.

→ Is it possible to make the dough from scratch?

Yes, you can definitely make your own dough. Just use a simple pizza dough recipe and follow the steps to roll it out thinly.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and reheat in the oven to maintain the crispiness.

→ Can I add other toppings?

Feel free to get creative! Add caramelized onions or prosciutto for an extra layer of flavor.