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 blue cheese, crumbled; 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced; 100g crème fraîche; 1 small onion, thinly sliced; Fresh arugula for garnish

Highlighted under: Authentic Global Cuisine Favorites

When I first tasted Flammkuchen, I was instantly captivated by its crispy crust and flavorful toppings. Today, I’m excited to share my version featuring sweet pears and tangy blue cheese. The combination of these ingredients creates a delightful contrast that is both comforting and sophisticated. I find that pairing it with a sprinkle of fresh arugula not only adds color, but also a peppery note that elevates the dish. This recipe is sure to impress at any gathering, and it's surprisingly easy to prepare.

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:29:34.440Z

Making Flammkuchen has become one of my favorite ways to showcase seasonal ingredients, especially when I have ripe pears at home. The first time I prepared this dish, I experimented with different cheese varieties, but blue cheese won my heart for its rich flavor. Balancing the sweetness of the pear with the savory cheese creates an irresistible bite.

Another tip I discovered is to bake the base until it's golden brown before adding the toppings. This ensures that the crust stays crispy and provides the perfect support for additions like caramelized onions or arugula. Trust me, you’ll want every last slice!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The unique blend of sweet pears and bold blue cheese.
A crispy, satisfying crust that serves as the ideal base.
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining.

      

Understanding Key Ingredients

The choice of blue cheese is crucial in this Flammkuchen recipe. The strong, tangy flavor of blue cheese pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the pears, creating a balanced taste profile. I recommend using a Gorgonzola or Roquefort for a bold flavor, but if you prefer a milder cheese, a creamy blue cheese like Maytag will work as well. Experimenting with different types can lead to delightful variations.

Pears not only add sweetness but also a juicy texture that complements the crispy crust of the Flammkuchen. Choosing ripe but slightly firm pears is key, as they will hold their shape while baking. Varieties like Bosc or Anjou are great for this dish because they have a robust flavor and a texture that stays intact when thinly sliced.

Techniques for Perfect Dough

Achieving the right dough consistency is essential for a crispy Flammkuchen. After kneading the dough, it should be smooth and just slightly tacky. If the dough is too wet, add a little more flour, but be cautious not to overdo it, as this can lead to a tough texture. Resting the dough for 15 minutes allows gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out thin and achieve that desirable crisp bite.

When rolling out the dough, aim for a thickness of about 0.5cm. The thinner the dough, the crisper it will be. If you find it sticking to the surface, lightly flour your rolling pin and the top of the dough. For the best results, I always recommend using a pizza stone or a preheated baking sheet, as these will provide a nice, evenly distributed heat, crucial for that golden finish.

Ingredients

For the Dough

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

For the Toppings

200g blue cheese, crumbled
2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
100g crème fraîche
1 small onion, thinly sliced
Fresh arugula for garnish

Gather all ingredients and prepare to create a delicious Flammkuchen!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover and let it rest for 15 minutes.

Preheat the Oven

While the dough rests, preheat your oven to 250°C (482°F). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat as well.

Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a thin rectangle, about 0.5cm thick. If using a baking sheet, lightly grease it and transfer the rolled dough.

Add Toppings

Spread the crème fraîche evenly over the dough, then layer the sliced pears, blue cheese, and onions on top.

Bake

Slide the Flammkuchen onto the hot pizza stone or place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden and crispy.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and top with fresh arugula. Slice and serve hot!

Enjoy your delicious Flammkuchen as an appetizer or main dish!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add caramelized onions for extra depth of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the flavor profile, consider drizzling some balsamic reduction over the Flammkuchen just before serving. This will add an extra layer of complexity with its sweet and tangy notes. Pairing it with a light salad of mixed greens can complement the rich flavors and provide a refreshing contrast to the savory toppings.

For a complete meal, serve the Flammkuchen alongside a creamy potato salad or a simple vegetable soup. Both options maintain the comfort food vibe while providing different textures to your meal. If you're planning to entertain, this dish works wonderfully as a shareable appetizer or a main dish.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out. Similarly, the toppings can be prepped the day before—just keep the sliced pears in a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning, and crumble the cheese ahead of time for easier assembly when you’re ready to bake.

If you have leftovers, Flammkuchen can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, place it in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes to help retain crispness, as microwaving will make it soggy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze Flammkuchen?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just ensure it’s well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

→ Can I use different toppings?

Absolutely! You can get creative with other cheeses, vegetables, or even meats.

→ What can I serve with Flammkuchen?

Pair it with a light salad or a glass of white wine for a complete meal.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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