Description
1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
1 tbsp maple syrup
8 oz Brie cheese, sliced
1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions:
Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) and roll out the pizza dough onto a greased baking sheet or pizza stone.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes. Season
with salt and pepper.
In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries and maple syrup over medium heat. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the cranberries begin to burst and release their
juice. Stir occasionally.
Spread a thin layer of the caramelized onions over the pizza dough. Top with sliced Brie cheese and spoon the cranberry mixture evenly over the cheese.
Sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves and drizzle with balsamic vinegar.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese has melted.
Remove from the oven, slice, and enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes Kcal: 280 per slice Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect pizza. First, ensure your oven rack is in the center position and preheat to 450°F (230°C) for at least 30 minutes. Roll your dough to a 12-inch circle on a piece of parchment paper for easy transfer. For the onions, cook them low and slow; don’t rush the caramelization. A pinch of sugar can help. For the cranberry sauce, use fresh or frozen berries, but do not thaw frozen ones first. The goal is a jammy compote, not a liquid sauce. When assembling, leave a 1-inch border for the crust. Distribute the Brie in an even layer, ensuring each slice gets some rind, which melts beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This elegant pizza pairs wonderfully with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a festive appetizer, cut into small squares. Serve alongside a crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Noir. The pizza is best enjoyed immediately, but leftovers reheat well in a toaster oven to maintain crust texture.
How-to Summary
Create a gourmet pizza by preheating your oven, rolling out dough, and caramelizing onions. Simmer cranberries with maple syrup into a compote. Assemble by layering dough with onions, sliced Brie, cranberry compote, fresh thyme, and a balsamic drizzle. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cheese? Yes. Camembert is a direct substitute for Brie. For a sharper flavor, try goat cheese or gorgonzola, but adjust quantities as they are more potent.
How do I prevent a soggy crust? Avoid overloading toppings and ensure your cranberry mixture has thickened. Pre-baking the naked dough for 5 minutes before adding toppings creates a barrier.
Can I make components ahead? Absolutely. Caramelized onions and cranberry compote can be made 2-3 days in advance and stored in the fridge. Bring to room temperature before assembling.
Is there a substitute for fresh thyme? You can use 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, but add it to the onions while cooking. Rosemary or sage also work well for a different herbal note.
Can I use a gluten-free crust? Yes, any pre-made or homemade gluten-free pizza dough will work. Follow the specific baking instructions for your chosen crust, as bake times may vary.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overloading the pizza with toppings, which leads to a soggy, undercooked crust.
- Not cooking the onions long enough; true caramelization is key for sweetness.
- Letting the cranberry mixture become too watery. It should be thick and spreadable.
- Using cold cheese straight from the fridge, which can impede even melting.
- Placing the pizza on a cold baking sheet. Always preheat your pan or stone in the oven.
Conclusion
This Brie, Caramelized Onion, and Cranberry Pizza is a stunning blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, perfect for a quick gourmet meal or holiday gathering. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can easily create a restaurant-quality dish at home. The combination of creamy Brie, rich onions, and bright cranberry is truly unforgettable. Experiment with the serving suggestions and make it your own. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!