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 pre-made Flammkuchen dough; 1 medium pear, thinly sliced; 100g blue cheese, crumbled; 1 medium onion, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh arugula for topping

Highlighted under: Global Ideas

I love creating dishes that blend sweet and savory flavors, and this Flammkuchen with Pear and Blue Cheese is my go-to recipe for impressing guests. The combination of the creamy blue cheese with the sweetness of ripe pears creates a delightful contrast. Topped with caramelized onions and fresh arugula, it’s perfect for a light lunch or an elegant appetizer. Plus, using store-bought dough saves time while ensuring a flaky, crispy crust!

Created by

Una Merrick

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:41:34.786Z

When I first tried making Flammkuchen, I was fascinated by how simple ingredients could come together to create something so special. I experimented with various toppings, but the sweet pears and tangy blue cheese truly stood out. To elevate the dish, I caramelized the onions, which added a rich depth to the flavor profile.

One technique I swear by is pre-baking the crust for a few minutes before adding the toppings. This ensures a perfect, crispy base that holds up beautifully against the toppings. Trust me, your friends will be raving about this dish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The harmonious balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Crispy, flaky crust that perfectly complements the toppings.
A unique twist on a classic dish that’s sure to impress.

      

Understanding the Flavors

The unique pairing of pear and blue cheese in this Flammkuchen creates a delightful interplay of flavors. The sweetness of ripe pears is balanced by the sharpness of blue cheese, which melts beautifully in the oven. To ensure the best flavor, choose a high-quality blue cheese such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola. The creaminess of the cheese enhances the overall richness, making each bite a luxurious experience.

As the Flammkuchen bakes, the caramelized onions contribute their sweetness and a touch of umami, creating a depth that complements the other toppings. When caramelizing, keep an eye on the heat; cooking too quickly can lead to burnt edges rather than the desired golden-brown color. Stir occasionally, and aim for that glossy appearance that indicates they’re perfectly done.

Tips for Perfect Texture

To achieve that coveted crispy crust, make sure your oven is preheated to 220°C (430°F) before placing the Flammkuchen inside. A hot oven will ensure the dough puffs up slightly and crisps nicely. If you’re using a baking stone or steel, preheat it alongside the oven for even better results. The bottom should have a pronounced crispiness while the edges are golden brown.

If you're looking to make this dish ahead of time, you can prepare and bake the Flammkuchen, then store it in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, reheat it in a hot oven for 5-7 minutes to restore the crispiness. Just be cautious not to overbake, as this can lead to a tough texture instead of a flaky one.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start cooking:

Flammkuchen Toppings

1 pre-made Flammkuchen dough
1 medium pear, thinly sliced
100g blue cheese, crumbled
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh arugula for topping

Make sure to have everything you need on hand for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Flammkuchen:

Prepare the Dough

Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F). Roll out the Flammkuchen dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Caramelize the Onions

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions, a pinch of salt, and cook until caramelized, about 10 minutes.

Assemble the Toppings

Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the dough. Layer on the sliced pears and crumbled blue cheese.

Bake

Place the Flammkuchen in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, top with fresh arugula, slice, and serve immediately.

Enjoy your homemade Flammkuchen with Pear and Blue Cheese!

Pro Tips

For an extra punch of flavor, consider drizzling a bit of honey over the top before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, you can swap it for goat cheese or feta, both of which will provide a different but equally delicious flavor profile. Goat cheese adds creaminess without the sharpness, while feta introduces a salty tang that can be wonderful in combination with pears.

For those looking to reduce calories or accommodate dietary restrictions, consider using a lower-fat cheese option or a non-dairy cheese substitute. Additionally, gluten-free Flammkuchen dough is available in many stores, making this recipe accessible for those following a gluten-free diet.

Serving Suggestions

This Flammkuchen is versatile and can be served in various ways. For a casual lunch, pair it with a light salad or some roasted vegetables. The freshness of arugula on top adds a peppery note and should be added right after baking to maintain its crispness.

For a more formal setting, slice the Flammkuchen into smaller pieces and serve it as an elegant hors d'oeuvre. A drizzle of balsamic reduction over the top before serving can elevate the dish further, adding an additional layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with both the blue cheese and pear.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Goat cheese or feta would also work well for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian. Just ensure that the blue cheese is made without animal rennet if you follow that dietary restriction.

→ What do you serve with Flammkuchen?

A light green salad or a glass of chilled white wine pairs beautifully with this dish.