Print

Flavorful Caramelized Pear and Gorgonzola Flatbread Recipe with Candied Walnuts

caramelized pear and Gorgonzola flatbread - featured image
Print Recipe

A cozy and delicious flatbread combining sweet caramelized pears, tangy Gorgonzola cheese, and crunchy candied walnuts, perfect for quick entertaining or a special snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 store-bought pizza dough (about 12 ounces / 340 grams)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced (Bartlett or Bosc)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons light brown sugar (packed)
  • 4 ounces (115 grams) Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
  • ½ cup candied walnuts
  • Fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)
  • For candied walnuts (if making at home):
  • ½ cup walnut halves
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • A pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the candied walnuts: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine ½ cup walnut halves, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon water, and a pinch of salt. Stir constantly as the sugar dissolves and coats the walnuts evenly — about 5 minutes. Spread the walnuts on parchment paper to cool and harden.
  2. Caramelize the pears: Heat 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced pears and sprinkle 2 tablespoons light brown sugar over them. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring gently, until the pears are golden, soft but not mushy, and the sugar has formed a sticky glaze. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C), and if using a pizza stone, place it inside to heat for at least 20 minutes.
  4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a roughly 12-inch (30 cm) oval or circle. Transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet or a pizza peel if using a stone.
  5. Brush the dough lightly with olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  6. Evenly spread the caramelized pears over the dough, then crumble 4 ounces (115 grams) of Gorgonzola cheese on top. Scatter the cooled candied walnuts over everything.
  7. Bake the flatbread on the pizza stone or baking sheet for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crisp and the cheese is bubbly.
  8. Remove from the oven and sprinkle fresh thyme leaves if desired. Let it rest for 2-3 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Don’t overcrowd the pan when caramelizing pears to ensure even browning. Use brown sugar for richer flavor or try maple syrup for a twist. Let dough rest at room temperature for 20 minutes before rolling to avoid tears. Brush dough with olive oil to prevent sogginess. Watch candied walnuts closely to avoid burning. Fresh thyme garnish adds subtle earthiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: caramelized pear, Gorgonzola, flatbread, candied walnuts, easy appetizer, quick snack, sweet and savory, fall recipe

Find it online: https://coracooks.com/flavorful-caramelized-pear-and-gorgonzola-flatbread-recipe-with-candied-walnuts/