This flatbread is a tasty treat with sweet pears, creamy Brie cheese, and tangy cranberries. It’s the perfect mix of flavors, all on a crispy base!
When I make this, I love how easy it is to impress my friends. Plus, it disappears fast because everyone wants a slice. Who can resist that combo? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flatbread: You can use store-bought flatbread for convenience, but making your own is fun! If you’re gluten-free, try a cauliflower crust or gluten-free tortillas.
Pear: A firm, ripe pear adds sweetness and texture. If pears aren’t in season, apples can work nicely as a substitute.
Brie Cheese: While Brie is creamy and delicious, Camembert is a great substitute. Both have similar flavors. If you’re vegan, look for a plant-based cheese that melts well!
Cranberries: Dried cranberries add a tangy punch. You can swap them with raisin or dried cherries if cranberries are too sweet for your taste.
Onion: Yellow onions are perfect for sautéing, but you could also try shallots or red onions for a slightly different flavor profile.
How Do I Get My Onions Perfectly Sautéed?
Sautéing onions can transform their flavor, making them sweet and golden. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a medium heat to avoid burning the onions. Too high, and they’ll brown too quickly.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. This helps them caramelize without sticking to the pan.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes until they are soft and golden; that’s when their natural sweetness comes out.
If you like an even richer flavor, try adding a pinch of sugar or balsamic vinegar to the onions while cooking! This will enhance the sweetness and give your flatbread a delightful depth of flavor.
Pear, Brie, and Cranberry Flatbread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 flatbread crust (store-bought or homemade, about 10×14 inches)
- 1 ripe but firm pear, thinly sliced
- 6 oz Brie cheese, rind removed and sliced or torn into pieces
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh rosemary sprig for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious flatbread takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to bake, so you’ll have a warm, tasty dish ready in about 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick snack or a fancy appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you’re using a pizza stone, pop it in the oven now to warm up!
2. Sauté the Onions:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once it’s hot, toss in the sliced onion. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and golden. Once done, take them off the heat and set aside.
3. Assemble the Flatbread:
Grab your flatbread crust and place it on a baking sheet or the hot pizza stone. Start by spreading the sautéed onions evenly over the top.
4. Add the Pears and Brie:
Layer the thin slices of pear on top of the onions. Next, scatter the Brie pieces over the pears. The cheese will melt beautifully during baking!
5. Sprinkle on Cranberries:
Add the dried cranberries across the flatbread for a sweet and tangy kick.
6. Season it Up:
Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves, along with salt and pepper to taste, over everything to enhance the flavors.
7. Bake:
Put your assembled flatbread in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. You want the edges to be golden and the Brie to be melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, you can garnish it with a fresh rosemary sprig if you like. Slice your flatbread and serve it warm. Enjoy every cheesy, fruity bite!
This flatbread beautifully combines the sweetness of the pears and cranberries with the creamy richness of Brie cheese, making it an ideal appetizer or a light meal. Enjoy! 🍐🧀
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While flatbread is preferred for its crispiness, you can use pita bread, naan, or even a pizza crust if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep an eye on the baking time as thicker crusts may need a bit longer.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but the texture might not be as crispy.
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative! Walnuts or pecans add a lovely crunch, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze can enhance the flavor profile even more. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as goat cheese or gouda!
What’s the Best Way to Slice the Pear?
For even slices, use a sharp knife to cut the pear into quarters, remove the core, and then slice each quarter into thin pieces. This ensures they lay nicely on the flatbread and cook evenly. Make sure to keep the skin on for added texture and flavor!