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 servings
Ingredients: 250g all-purpose flour; 150ml water; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 200g crème fraîche; 100g blue cheese, crumbled; 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced; Fresh thyme for garnish; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fusion Meals

I absolutely adore making Flammkuchen, especially when I get to pair sweet pears with rich blue cheese. The combination of flavors never fails to impress, and it’s a delightful dish for gatherings. Each bite brings together the crispness of the dough and the creaminess of the cheese, topped with fruit that adds a lovely contrast. This recipe is an elevated twist on traditional Flammkuchen, and I can't wait to share the joy it brings to my table.

Created by

Honor Blackwell

Last updated on 2026-01-08T11:06:38.882Z

Making Flammkuchen is one of my fondest cooking memories. I remember the first time I tried it, the crisp and slightly smoky crust paired with the sweetness of the pears completely enchanted me. I realized that using a thin layer of crème fraîche really highlights the flavors of the toppings remarkably well.

While experimenting, I discovered that adding a sprinkle of fresh thyme elevates the dish even more, offering a nice herbal note to balance the richness of the blue cheese. It’s a simple twist that makes a huge difference!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy thin crust providing the perfect base for toppings
Flavor harmony between sweet pear and tangy blue cheese
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for entertaining

      

Perfecting the Dough

The foundation of a great Flammkuchen is its dough, which should be crispy yet chewy. Make sure to knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, spending about 5-7 minutes on this step. This allows the gluten to develop fully, contributing to a delightful texture. If the dough feels too sticky, you can incorporate a bit more flour, but be cautious not to overdo it as that can lead to a dense crust.

While the dough rests, consider using this time to prepare your toppings. This can help ensure that the dough is ready to go as soon as you finish prepping. A short resting period of 15 minutes is sufficient to relax the gluten, enabling you to roll it out smoothly. Keep an eye on the thickness; a 1/4 inch thickness is ideal for achieving that perfect crunch.

Choosing the Right Pears

When selecting pears for this recipe, opt for ripe varieties like Bosc or Anjou. They have a firm texture that stands up well to baking and balances beautifully with the richness of blue cheese. Aim for pears that yield slightly to pressure but are not overly soft. This will ensure they maintain their shape when baked, contributing a lovely contrast to the creamy toppings.

To enhance the flavor even further, consider lightly sautéing the pear slices in a bit of butter or olive oil before adding them to the Flammkuchen. This step caramelizes the sugars in the fruit, bringing out their sweetness and adding a depth of flavor. You can do this over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, just until they start to soften.

Serving Suggestions

Flammkuchen is traditionally served warm and sliced into small portions, making it a fantastic appetizer for gatherings. For added flair, serve it alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The peppery greens will complement the sweetness of the pears and the tanginess of the blue cheese beautifully, creating a balance of flavors on the plate.

If you're looking to scale up this recipe for a larger crowd, simply double the ingredients and prepare multiple trays. You can bake them simultaneously if your oven allows, adjusting cooking time slightly if necessary. Just watch for that golden-brown edge to ensure each Flammkuchen comes out perfectly crisp.

Ingredients

For the Flammkuchen

250g all-purpose flour
150ml water
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt

For Topping

200g crème fraîche
100g blue cheese, crumbled
2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
Fresh thyme for garnish
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients thoroughly and let rest for 15 minutes.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, water, olive oil, and salt. Knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover and let it rest for 15 minutes.

Roll Out the Dough

Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a thin rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.

Add the Toppings

Spread a generous layer of crème fraîche over the dough, leaving a small border. Top with crumbled blue cheese and pear slices. Season with salt and pepper.

Bake

Transfer to a baking sheet and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the edges are crisp and golden brown.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh thyme, slice into portions, and enjoy warm!

Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a drizzle of honey over the finished Flammkuchen before serving.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. However, to maintain the crispiness of the crust, reheat them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes instead of in the microwave, which can make the crust soggy.

For longer storage, consider freezing the unbaked Flammkuchen. After assembling, place the unbaked Flammkuchen on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and transfer to a freezer bag. They can be baked straight from the freezer; just add an extra 5 minutes to the baking time.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to customize this Flammkuchen by experimenting with different cheeses. Gorgonzola or goat cheese can be excellent substitutes for blue cheese, offering unique flavor profiles that still pair well with pears. Additionally, try adding caramelized onions or crispy bacon for an extra layer of flavor.

If you're aiming for a vegetarian version, consider replacing the blue cheese with a nut-based cheese to maintain a creamy texture and flavor. This can also cater to those with dairy allergies while keeping the dish enjoyable and flavorful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, you can substitute blue cheese with goat cheese or feta for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover Flammkuchen in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it refrigerated.

→ What can I serve with Flammkuchen?

Serve it with a simple green salad or a glass of white wine for a complete meal.