Description
1 pre-made pizza dough (or homemade)
1 tbsp olive oil
6 oz Brie cheese, sliced
4 fresh figs, thinly sliced
¼ cup walnuts, chopped
1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
2 tbsp honey (for drizzling)
½ tsp flaky sea salt
Black pepper, to taste
Directions:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness.
Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush with olive oil.
Arrange Brie slices evenly over the dough, followed by fig slices and chopped walnuts.
Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the top.
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted.
Remove from the oven and drizzle with honey. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and a touch of black pepper.
Slice and serve warm. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 25 minutes Kcal: 320 per slice Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect pizza every time.
- Preheat Thoroughly: Place your pizza stone or heavy baking sheet in the oven and preheat to 425°F (220°C) for at least 30 minutes. This ensures a crisp crust.
- Prepare the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll or stretch your dough to about a 12-inch circle. For a chewier crust, stretch by hand.
- Assemble on Parchment: Place the shaped dough on a piece of parchment paper. Brush the entire surface lightly with olive oil, which creates a barrier against sogginess.
- Layer Toppings Strategically: Arrange the Brie slices first, ensuring even coverage. Scatter the fig slices and chopped walnuts evenly. Sprinkle thyme leaves last so they don’t burn.
- Bake with Care: Using a pizza peel or the back of a baking sheet, carefully slide the pizza (on the parchment) onto the hot stone. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is deeply golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from the oven. Immediately drizzle with honey, sprinkle with flaky salt and a crack of black pepper. Let rest for 2 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your meal with these complementary ideas.
- Serve alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
- Pair with a chilled glass of Prosecco, a light Pinot Noir, or a crisp rosé.
- For a heartier meal, add prosciutto or thinly sliced speck after baking.
- Dollop with a high-quality balsamic glaze in addition to the honey for a sweet-and-tangy finish.
How-to Summary
Preheat oven and stone. Roll dough, brush with oil, and top with Brie, figs, walnuts, and thyme. Bake at 425°F for 12-15 mins until golden. Finish with honey, salt, and pepper.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cheese? Yes, Camembert or a creamy goat cheese are excellent substitutes for Brie.
What if I can’t find fresh figs? Use high-quality fig jam spread thinly over the dough before adding cheese, or try thinly sliced pears.
Can I prepare this pizza ahead of time? You can assemble the pizza on the parchment-lined sheet and refrigerate for up to 1 hour before baking. Add thyme just before it goes in the oven.
How do I prevent a soggy crust? Ensure your oven and stone are fully preheated. The olive oil brush on the dough also creates a crucial moisture barrier.
Are the walnuts necessary? They add essential crunch and bitterness that balances the sweet figs and honey. Toasted pecans are a good alternative.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overloading the Pizza: Too many toppings, especially wet figs, will steam the crust. Keep layers thin and even.
- Using Cold Dough: Let refrigerated dough come to room temperature for easier stretching and a better rise.
- Skipping the Preheating Step: A cold baking sheet will result in a pale, soft crust.
- Adding Honey Before Baking: This will cause it to burn. Always add honey as a finishing drizzle.
Conclusion
This Brie, Fig, and Walnut Pizza is a stunning combination of creamy, sweet, and savory flavors that feels gourmet but comes together in under 30 minutes. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create an impressive dish perfect for a quick weeknight treat or an elegant appetizer for guests. The key lies in the quality of simple ingredients and the perfect bake on a hot stone. Enjoy the delicious results!
