Description
For the Flatbread:
1 package store-bought flatbread or pizza dough
1 tbsp olive oil
1 pear, thinly sliced
1/4 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
1/4 cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped
1/4 cup arugula (optional for garnish)
For the Spiced Honey Drizzle:
2 tbsp honey
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/8 tsp ground cloves
Pinch of salt
Directions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out the flatbread or pizza dough onto a baking sheet and brush with olive oil.
Evenly layer the pear slices, Gorgonzola cheese, and toasted walnuts over the dough.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the flatbread is golden and crispy, and the cheese has melted.
While the flatbread bakes, whisk together honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt in a small bowl.
Remove the flatbread from the oven and drizzle with the spiced honey mixture.
Garnish with fresh arugula, slice, and serve warm. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 25 minutes Kcal: 320 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time.
- Preheat & Prep: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place your baking sheet inside to preheat as well—this helps create a crispier crust.
- Prepare the Dough: Lightly flour your surface. Roll or stretch the dough to your desired thickness and place it on a piece of parchment paper. Brush the entire surface evenly with one tablespoon of olive oil, going all the way to the edges.
- Assemble Toppings: Thinly slice a ripe but firm pear. Scatter the slices evenly over the dough, followed by the crumbled Gorgonzola and chopped toasted walnuts. Avoid overloading the center to prevent sogginess.
- Bake: Carefully transfer the parchment paper with the assembled flatbread onto the preheated baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes. Watch for the edges to turn golden brown and the cheese to melt and bubble.
- Make the Drizzle: While baking, combine the honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and a pinch of salt in a small microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 10-15 seconds to make it easily pourable, then whisk until smooth.
- Finish & Serve: Once out of the oven, immediately drizzle the spiced honey over the hot flatbread. The heat will help it spread. Garnish with fresh arugula for a peppery contrast, slice, and serve.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile flatbread works beautifully in different settings. For a light lunch, pair it with a simple mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette. As an elegant appetizer, cut it into smaller squares or strips for easy sharing at a gathering. It also makes a superb companion to a warm bowl of butternut squash or tomato soup on a cozy evening.
How-to Summary
Preheat oven to 375°F. Roll dough, brush with oil, and top with pear, Gorgonzola, and walnuts. Bake for 12-15 mins until golden. Whisk honey with cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Drizzle over baked flatbread, garnish with arugula, slice, and serve warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cheese? Absolutely. If Gorgonzola is too strong, try milder blue cheese, goat cheese, or even brie. The key is a cheese that melts well.
How do I prevent a soggy crust? Ensure your pear slices are thin and pat them dry with a paper towel. Preheating the baking sheet is the most effective step for a crisp bottom.
Can I make this ahead of time? You can prepare the spiced honey and chop toppings ahead, but assemble and bake just before serving for the best texture.
What’s the best pear to use? Anjou or Bosc pears are ideal—they hold their shape well when baked and aren’t overly juicy.
Can I make this without nuts? Yes, for a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts. Toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas) can be a great crunchy substitute.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Overripe Pears: Excess moisture from very ripe pears will steam the dough. Use firm, just-ripe fruit.
- Neglecting to Toast the Walnuts: Toasting is essential to deepen their flavor and add crunch. Don’t skip this step.
- Overloading the Dough: Piling on too many toppings weighs down the dough and prevents even cooking. Less is more.
- Adding the Honey Before Baking: The spiced honey drizzle should always be added after baking. If added before, it can burn and become bitter.
Conclusion
This Pear, Gorgonzola, and Walnut Flatbread is a masterpiece of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, all coming together in under 30 minutes. It’s a testament to how a few quality ingredients can create an impressive and delicious dish perfect for any occasion. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’re guaranteed a restaurant-worthy result that will delight your guests or make a weeknight dinner feel special.
