This tasty flatbread comes topped with sweet pears, creamy brie, and tangy cranberries. It’s perfect for a special snack or a cozy gathering with friends!
I love how easy it is to make and how the flavors just dance together. Plus, who can resist a fresh, warm flatbread? It’s a great way to impress without too much effort! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flatbread Crust: You can use store-bought flatbread for convenience, or make your own. If you can’t find flatbread, pita bread works as a great substitute for a quick and easy option.
Pear: Bosc or Bartlett pears are great choices for this recipe. They’re sweet and tender when baked. If pears are unavailable, apples can be a lovely alternative, adding a different crunch!
Brie Cheese: Brie is creamy and mild, perfect for this dish. If brie isn’t to your taste or if you’re looking for a lighter option, camembert or a spreadable cream cheese can work well, too.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are tart and colorful. If you can’t find them, dried cranberries can be used instead, just remember they’re sweeter, so reduce the honey slightly!
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a lovely herbal note. If you don’t have fresh thyme, dried thyme works in a pinch, but use only half as much since it’s more potent.
How Do I Ensure the Flatbread Turns Out Crispy?
Getting that nice crispy flatbread is key for a great texture! Here are some tips:
- Start with a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) to give your flatbread a head start on crisping up.
- Brush the crust with olive oil; this helps it crisp and adds flavor. Don’t skip this step!
- Cook the flatbread on a pizza stone or a baking sheet for even heat distribution, which promotes a nice crisp base.
- Avoid overloading with toppings. Evenly spread out your ingredients without piling them too high to allow for even cooking.
- Keep an eye on it while baking, since oven times can vary. You want it golden and bubbly, but not burned. Check around the 12-minute mark!
Pear, Brie, and Cranberry Flatbread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 flatbread crust (store-bought or homemade, about 10-12 inches)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pear, thinly sliced (Bosc or Bartlett work well)
- 6 ounces brie cheese, rind removed and sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (if frozen, thaw slightly)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes to bake. Total, you’ll need around 25 minutes to create this delicious flatbread, perfect for an easy snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you have a pizza stone, it’s a great time to put it in the oven so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the flatbread.
2. Prepare the Flatbread:
Take your flatbread crust and lightly brush it with olive oil. This helps the flatbread get that beautiful crispy texture when baked. Make sure to cover the surface evenly!
3. Add the Pears:
Now it’s time to layer on the flavors! Arrange the thin slices of pear evenly over the flatbread, allowing them to slightly overlap for a lovely presentation.
4. Layer with Brie:
Distribute the sliced brie cheese over the pears. Try to cover most of the pear slices with the brie so each bite is creamy and delicious!
5. Scatter the Cranberries:
Next, scatter the cranberries on top of the brie and pears. They not only add a pop of color but also a nice tart flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweet pears.
6. Drizzle Honey:
Drizzle honey over all the toppings. It adds a touch of sweetness that ties all the flavors together perfectly!
7. Season:
Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves, salt, and freshly ground black pepper evenly over the flatbread. The thyme brings a delightful herbaceous note that elevates the whole dish.
8. Bake:
Gently place the flatbread on a baking sheet or on your preheated pizza stone. Bake for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the brie is melty, the edges are golden and crisp, and the cranberries are softened.
9. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the flatbread from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. If you like, garnish with additional fresh thyme sprigs for an extra touch of freshness.
10. Serve Warm:
Slice your beautiful flatbread and serve it warm. Enjoy this delightful combination of sweet pear, creamy brie, and tangy cranberries!
This flatbread is sure to impress your friends and family with its elegant flavors and inviting aroma. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If brie isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with camembert for a similar creamy texture. Goat cheese or even a mild mozzarella can work well too, but be mindful of how these cheeses may change the overall flavor.
Can I Prepare This Flatbread in Advance?
Yes! You can slice the pears and prepare all the toppings ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and bake the flatbread. However, it’s best to bake it right before serving for optimal crispiness!
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, let the flatbread cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain that crispiness.
Can I Make This Flatbread Vegan?
Yes! You can use a vegan flatbread and substitute the brie with a plant-based cheese alternative. Agave syrup can replace honey, and feel free to add extra veggies for more flavor and nutrition!
