This pear, brie, and cranberry flatbread is a tasty treat! Crisp flatbread topped with sweet pears, creamy brie, and tangy cranberries—what’s not to love?
It’s perfect for a quick snack or an appetizer at parties. I could munch on this all day, especially when that cheese starts to melt! Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flatbread: I usually opt for store-bought flatbread for convenience, but you can make your own if you have the time! If you’re looking for gluten-free options, there are also many gluten-free flatbreads available.
Pear: A ripe pear adds sweetness and softness, but you’ve got options! Try using apples for a firmer crunch or even figs for a unique twist.
Brie Cheese: Brie is creamy and mild, but you can use Camembert or even goat cheese if you want a tangier flavor. Just keep in mind that goat cheese will change the taste of the flatbread!
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries provide a nice tartness. Dried cranberries are sweeter, but make sure to soak them in warm water to plump them up. If you have cherries on hand, they’d also work well!
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds an aromatic touch. You can substitute it with rosemary or even a little dried Italian seasoning if that’s what you have around.
How Do I Get a Perfectly Crispy Flatbread?
The key to achieving a deliciously crispy flatbread lies in how you prepare it. Here’s what to focus on:
- Olive Oil: Brushing both sides with olive oil helps create that crispy texture. Don’t skimp on this step—it makes a real difference!
- Preheating: Make sure your oven and the pizza stone or baking sheet are hot before placing the flatbread in. This helps cook it evenly and keeps it from getting soggy.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on it while baking. You want the edges golden and the cheese bubbling, usually about 12-15 minutes. Every oven is a bit different, so adjust as needed!
How to Make Pear, Brie, and Cranberry Flatbread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 store-bought or homemade flatbread (about 10×14 inches)
- 1 ripe pear, thinly sliced
- 6 ounces Brie cheese, rind removed and sliced or torn into pieces
- 1/2 cup fresh or dried cranberries (for dried, soak briefly in warm water to plump)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (plus more for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1 tbsp honey or balsamic glaze for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious flatbread takes about 10 minutes to prep, plus 12-15 minutes to bake. So, in less than 30 minutes, you can have a warm, cheesy delicious snack ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps get your flatbread perfectly crispy. Place a pizza stone or a baking sheet in the oven to heat up as well.
2. Prepare the Flatbread:
Lightly brush the flatbread with olive oil on both sides. This will help it get nice and crispy while baking, making every bite enjoyable!
3. Add the Pear Slices:
Arrange the thinly sliced pear evenly over the flatbread. You can slightly overlap them for a lovely look and to ensure every bite has some pear.
4. Layer the Brie:
Distribute the Brie cheese on top of the pears. Tear or slice the cheese into pieces making sure it’s spread out evenly to melt perfectly.
5. Sprinkle the Cranberries:
Scatter the cranberries over the flatbread, adding both sweetness and a nice pop of color to your dish!
6. Season It Up:
Sprinkle fresh thyme, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper across the top. This adds flavor and enhances all the lovely ingredients we’ve layered on.
7. Bake the Flatbread:
Carefully transfer your flatbread onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake it in the oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the Brie is bubbly and melted.
8. Finish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the flatbread cool for a minute. If you like, drizzle some honey or balsamic glaze on top for an extra layer of flavor. Garnish with a few more fresh thyme leaves for a beautiful touch!
9. Slice and Enjoy:
Finally, slice your flatbread into pieces and enjoy it warm. It’s a wonderful mix of creamy, sweet, and tangy flavors sure to be a hit!
This pear, brie, and cranberry flatbread is not only tasty but also perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night in. Enjoy your culinary creation!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Brie adds a creamy texture, you can substitute it with Camembert for a similar flavor or even goat cheese for a tangy twist. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will offer their unique taste to the flatbread.
What Should I Do with Leftover Flatbread?
Leftover flatbread can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in a toaster oven or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Make This Flatbread Vegetarian-Friendly?
This recipe is already vegetarian, so you’re good to go! If you want, you can enhance it with additional veggies like arugula or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition without losing the dish’s essence.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Flatbread?
If you prefer it on the sweeter side, consider using pears that are ripe and sweet, or add a bit more honey or balsamic glaze after baking. On the other hand, if you want a more savory flavor, you might reduce the amount of cranberries or exclude the honey.