Flammkuchen with Pear and Blue Cheese

Name: Flammkuchen with Pear and Blue Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 1 store-bought pizza dough; 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced; 150g blue cheese, crumbled; 200g crème fraîche; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh thyme leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Inspiration

I absolutely adore making Flammkuchen, especially when I can combine sweet and savory flavors in one delicious dish. The combination of juicy pears and tangy blue cheese takes this traditional Alsatian flatbread to another level. With a crisp crust and a delicate balance of toppings, it’s perfect for a cozy night in or as an impressive appetizer for friends. I love that it comes together quickly, using just a few pantry staples, yet feels gourmet enough for any occasion.

Created by

Victoria Hall

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:53:37.278Z

Creating Flammkuchen has always been a fun and creative outlet for me. The method of stretching the dough thin allows for a beautifully crispy texture, while the toppings meld perfectly during baking. I love experimenting with various combinations, but this recipe featuring pears and blue cheese is one of my favorites for its unique flavor profile. The creamy cheese pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the pears, making every bite a delightful experience.

One key tip I’ve learned is to preheat your oven to a high temperature to ensure the crust cooks evenly and becomes delightfully crispy. Placing the Flammkuchen on a baking stone or a hot baking sheet can achieve that restaurant-quality crust that we all crave. It’s a simple step but makes a huge difference!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Perfect harmony between sweet pears and tangy blue cheese
Crispy crust that’s a delight to bite into
Quick and easy to prepare, yet feels gourmet

      

Understanding Flammkuchen

Flammkuchen, often referred to as Alsatian pizza, features a thinly rolled dough that crisps up beautifully in the oven. The secret to achieving that coveted crunch is to roll the dough as thin as possible—aim for a thickness of about 3mm. This allows for a quick bake, yielding a light and airy base instead of a heavy crust that might overshadow the toppings. Keep an eye on the baking time; it can vary slightly depending on your oven's performance.

The traditional toppings for Flammkuchen include crème fraîche, onions, and bacon, but this recipe takes it to a unique dimension with sweet pears and blue cheese. The creamy, tangy crème fraîche acts as a base that complements the rich flavor of blue cheese, while the pears provide a fresh, juicy counterpoint. This balance is crucial, as it elevates the dish from basic flatbread to an indulgent treat.

Perfecting Your Toppings

When selecting pears, it’s essential to choose ripe yet firm varieties, like Bartlett or Anjou, that will hold up during baking. Overripe pears can turn mushy and lose their structure. Thinly slicing them will ensure they cook evenly and caramelize beautifully, enhancing their natural sweetness without overpowering the savory elements of the dish. For an added depth of flavor, consider brushing the sliced pears with a touch of honey before layering them on the dough.

The type of blue cheese you opt for can significantly alter the flavor profile of your Flammkuchen. Roquefort provides a sharp and bold taste, while Gorgonzola offers a creamier and milder option. If blue cheese isn’t your preference, you can substitute it with goat cheese for a tangy twist or even a mild cheddar for those who prefer less intensity. Just remember, the key is to use a cheese that melts well yet adds distinct flavor to the overall dish.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Flammkuchen

1 store-bought pizza dough
2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
150g blue cheese, crumbled
200g crème fraîche
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh thyme leaves for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 250 degrees Celsius (482 degrees Fahrenheit) and place a baking stone or a large baking sheet in the oven to heat.

Prepare the Dough

On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle about 3mm thick. Carefully transfer it onto a piece of parchment paper for easier handling.

Add Crème Fraîche and Toppings

Spread the crème fraîche evenly over the stretched dough, leaving about an inch of border. Arrange the thinly sliced pears on top, sprinkle the blue cheese, and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.

Bake

Carefully transfer the Flammkuchen (on the parchment paper) to the preheated baking stone or baking sheet. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, until the edges are golden and crispy.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh thyme leaves, and cut into slices. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, try adding a drizzle of honey over the Flammkuchen after baking. It enhances the sweetness of the pears and the creaminess of the cheese beautifully.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover Flammkuchen, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, place it in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit) for about 5-8 minutes, which helps to maintain that crispy crust. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the dough chewy instead of keeping it crisp.

If you're planning to make Flammkuchen ahead of time, consider preparing the toppings in advance and storing them separately. Roll out the dough and keep it in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply assemble the toppings and put it in the oven. This technique allows you to enjoy a freshly baked dish without all the hassle at the moment.

Serving Suggestions

For a lovely presentation, serve your Flammkuchen with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette alongside it. This adds a refreshing contrast that balances the rich flavors of the dish. Alternatively, you can drizzle a balsamic reduction over the top just before serving for added sweetness and a touch of acidity.

Feeling adventurous? Try adding a touch of fig jam or a sprinkle of walnuts for extra complexity in flavor and texture. If you're hosting a gathering, consider making mini Flammkuchen using smaller rounds of pizza dough, which can serve as delightful bite-sized appetizers that guests can enjoy while mingling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, you can try using goat cheese or ricotta for a milder flavor.

→ How long does Flammkuchen keep?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftover Flammkuchen in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make my own dough?

Absolutely! A simple homemade pizza dough works great if you prefer fresh ingredients.

→ Is Flammkuchen gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free due to the pizza dough, but you can use a gluten-free dough alternative.