Mediterranean Pear, Brie, and Cranberry Flatbread with Thyme

Sweet, Savory, and Perfectly Elegant

This Mediterranean Pear, Brie, and Cranberry Flatbread with Thyme is a simple yet elegant dish that balances sweet fruit, creamy cheese, and aromatic herbs. The buttery brie melts over warm flatbread while the pears caramelize slightly, and the cranberries add a tart pop that ties everything together. Finished with a drizzle of honey and a touch of thyme, it’s the perfect appetizer, light lunch, or wine-night bite.

Time: 20 minutes
Serves: 2–3

Ingredients

Flatbread or naan

1 ripe pear, thinly sliced

Brie cheese, sliced

2 tbsp dried cranberries or a few spoonfuls of cranberry sauce

Fresh thyme leaves

1–2 tsp olive oil

1–2 tsp honey (for drizzling)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional: walnuts or pecans, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:
Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Flatbread Base:
Place the flatbread or naan on the prepared sheet. Lightly brush with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Assemble the Toppings:
Arrange the pear slices evenly over the flatbread. Add slices of brie on top, then scatter dried cranberries or spoon small dollops of cranberry sauce.

Bake:
Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the brie is melted and the edges of the flatbread are golden brown.

Finish and Garnish:
Remove from the oven and drizzle with honey. Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves and optional nuts on top.

Slice and Serve:
Cut into wedges and serve warm—ideal with a crisp salad or a glass of white wine.

Tips & Variations

Choosing the Pears

Go for ripe but firm pears such as Bosc, Bartlett, or Anjou. They hold their shape when baked and offer the right balance of sweetness and texture.

If your pears are very ripe, slice them slightly thicker so they don’t turn mushy in the oven.

Working with Brie

Brie melts beautifully, but you can chill it in the freezer for 5–10 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.

If you prefer a stronger flavor, swap part of the brie for gorgonzola or camembert.

Adding Texture

A handful of toasted walnuts or pecans adds crunch and a nutty note that complements the creamy cheese and fruit.

You can also sprinkle a few pumpkin seeds or pine nuts for a lighter twist.

Flavor Boosters

Add a light layer of caramelized onions or fig jam before topping with the pears for a richer base.

A drizzle of balsamic glaze instead of honey gives a tangy-sweet finish.

For a savory edge, sprinkle a touch of crushed red pepper flakes or cracked black pepper on top.

Alternative Bases

Flatbread or naan works perfectly, but pizza dough, lavash, or puff pastry can also be used. Adjust baking time as needed—puff pastry will need a few extra minutes.

Serving Ideas

Cut into small squares or wedges for an elegant appetizer or party bite.

Serve alongside arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette for a light, balanced meal.

This pairs beautifully with white wine or sparkling water with citrus slices.

Make It Ahead

You can prep all ingredients (slice pears, portion cheese, and measure toppings) in advance. Assemble just before baking to keep the flatbread crisp.

Q&A

Q: Can I use another type of cheese instead of brie?
A: Yes. Camembert, goat cheese, or even mozzarella can be used. Brie gives the creamiest texture, but goat cheese adds tang while mozzarella keeps it mild and melty.

Q: Can I make this flatbread ahead of time?
A: You can prepare and partially bake the flatbread with toppings (except the honey and thyme), then reheat it for 5 minutes before serving. Add the honey and herbs right before eating.

Q: What if I don’t have fresh thyme?
A: Dried thyme works fine—use about half the amount. Fresh rosemary or a sprinkle of oregano can also be nice alternatives.

Q: How do I keep the flatbread from getting soggy?
A: Brush a light layer of olive oil on the flatbread before adding toppings. This acts as a barrier against moisture from the pears and cheese.

Q: Can I make it vegetarian or vegan?
A: It’s already vegetarian! For a vegan version, use a plant-based brie or cashew cheese and substitute maple syrup for honey.

Nutrition

(per serving, serves 2–3)

Calories: ~380

Protein: 12 g

Carbohydrates: 40 g

Fat: 19 g

Fiber: 3 g

Sugar: 15 g

(Values may vary depending on cheese type, pear size, and flatbread thickness.)

Conclusion

This Mediterranean Pear, Brie, and Cranberry Flatbread with Thyme blends sweet and savory flavors in a simple, elegant way. The creamy brie melts into the juicy pears, while the tart cranberries and drizzle of honey bring perfect balance. Fresh thyme ties it all together with an earthy note. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, lunch, or a shareable dinner, this flatbread feels gourmet yet effortless—an ideal dish for cozy nights or casual gatherings alike.