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: 200g all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp sugar; 2 tbsp olive oil; 100ml water; 100g crème fraîche; 150g blue cheese, crumbled; 1 ripe pear, thinly sliced; 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Inspired Food

I love creating unique flavor combinations, and this Flammkuchen with Pear and Blue Cheese is one of my favorites. The crisp, thin crust serves as a delightful base, while the sweet and juicy pears complement the rich saltiness of the blue cheese perfectly. It’s a dish that balances sweet and savory in a way that always impresses my family and friends. Whether we’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening, this recipe never fails to evoke compliments and requests for the recipe!

Created by

Yasmin Thornton

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:26:35.018Z

When I first made Flammkuchen, I was captivated by its simplicity and incredible flavor. The thin crust, originating from Alsace, is perfect for experimenting, and the pairing of pear with blue cheese is a delightful surprise. Each slice delivers a satisfying crunch, followed by the creamy richness of the cheese and the sweet juiciness of the pear.

This recipe is my go-to when I want to serve something that’s both impressive and easy to make. I’ve learned that allowing the dough to rest enhances its texture, so don’t skip that step. The result is a perfectly crispy base that holds up under the toppings!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A creative twist on traditional Flammkuchen that will surprise your palate
The interplay of sweet pear and tangy blue cheese is simply irresistible
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for entertaining or a cozy night in

      

Perfecting the Dough

The dough is vital for achieving the right texture in your Flammkuchen. By using all-purpose flour, you're ensuring a sturdy base that won’t become soggy when topped with cream and fruits. Make sure to knead the dough just until it is smooth, which typically takes about 3-5 minutes. Over-kneading can lead to a tough crust, while under-kneading can yield an inconsistent texture. After resting for 15 minutes, the dough will become easier to roll out and will stretch without tearing.

If you find the dough is too sticky during rolling, dust your work surface lightly with flour. This prevents sticking and helps achieve that desired thinness, around 0.5 cm. A rolling pin is the perfect tool for this; just ensure it is flour-coated to keep the dough from adhering.

Layering Flavors

When adding toppings, the order matters for flavor development. Start by spreading crème fraîche evenly to create a creamy layer that balances the savory blue cheese. This softens the strong flavor of the cheese and makes every bite harmonious. Each topping should just touch the next without overwhelming the base, ensuring the delicate flavor of the pear shines through.

For a more balanced taste, consider using a milder blue cheese if you're wary of the strong saltiness. Roquefort or Gorgonzola are good alternatives. Also, adding more thyme can enhance the earthiness and add freshness, so feel free to adjust according to your palate.

Baking to Perfection

Baking is where the Flammkuchen transforms into a delightful treat. Preheating your oven to the right temperature—220°C (428°F)—is crucial for creating crispy edges. If your oven is not hot enough, the crust may end up soft rather than crispy. When baking, keep an eye on the edges; they should turn golden brown, indicating that your Flammkuchen is nearing perfection.

For an added crispy texture, consider baking directly on a pizza stone if you have one; it absorbs heat and provides an excellent crispy crust. If you need to scale up the recipe, simply multiply the ingredients while ensuring your baking sheet can accommodate the larger size. As a rule of thumb, increase baking time by a couple of minutes for thicker versions.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create the base and toppings for your Flammkuchen:

For the Dough

200g all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp sugar
2 tbsp olive oil
100ml water

For the Toppings

100g crème fraîche
150g blue cheese, crumbled
1 ripe pear, thinly sliced
1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper, to taste

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you can start making your Flammkuchen!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Flammkuchen:

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Make a well in the center, then add the olive oil and water. Mix until a smooth dough forms. Cover and let it rest for 15 minutes.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F) and place a baking sheet inside to heat.

Roll Out the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the rested dough into a thin rectangle (about 0.5 cm thick).

Add the Toppings

Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough onto parchment paper. Spread the crème fraîche evenly over the surface. Sprinkle with crumbled blue cheese, then top with the pear slices and thyme leaves. Season with salt and pepper.

Bake

Using the parchment paper, transfer the Flammkuchen onto the preheated baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges are golden brown.

Serve

Remove from the oven, allow to cool slightly, and cut into pieces. Serve warm and enjoy!

Your Flammkuchen is ready to be enjoyed warm, and it's perfect as an appetizer or a light meal!

Pro Tips

For an added touch, drizzle some honey over the cooked Flammkuchen before serving to enhance the sweet and savory balance.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To maintain the crust's crispiness, reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 8-10 minutes instead of using a microwave, which can lead to a soggy texture. Keep a close watch until warmed through, as every oven can vary in efficiency.

For any longer storage, I recommend freezing the assembled Flammkuchen (before baking) on a baking sheet until solid, then transferring it to a freezer-safe container. You can bake it directly from the freezer; just add an extra two to three minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

This Flammkuchen pairs wonderfully with a light salad, such as arugula dressed with a lemon vinaigrette. The peppery notes of the arugula contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the pears and the richness of the blue cheese. This creates a balanced meal that feels both gourmet and comforting.

For a touch of elegance, consider drizzling a balsamic reduction over your Flammkuchen before serving. This adds a tangy sweetness that complements the existing flavors. Additionally, topping each slice with a sprinkle of crushed walnuts can provide a satisfying crunch and a nice earthiness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! You can substitute the blue cheese with goat cheese or feta for a different flavor profile.

→ How can I make the dough gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour mix in place of regular flour to make the dough gluten-free.

→ Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the dough a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

→ What can I serve with Flammkuchen?

Flammkuchen pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a light soup for a complete meal.