Crispy Flatbread with Mascarpone, Dried Apricots & Toasted Pecans with Hot Honey Drizzle
A beautifully balanced sweet-and-savory flatbread featuring a crisp golden base, creamy mascarpone, chewy dried apricots, and crunchy toasted pecans — finished with a warm spicy honey drizzle. Perfect as an elegant appetizer, brunch dish, or light dessert.
Description
This crispy flatbread combines luxurious creaminess with natural sweetness and nutty crunch. The rich mascarpone cheese melts slightly into the warm flatbread, while dried apricots add a tangy sweetness and toasted pecans bring depth and texture. A warm hot honey drizzle ties everything together with a gentle spicy kick.
Flavor profile: Sweet • Creamy • Nutty • Lightly Spicy • Crispy
Skill level: Easy
Best served: Warm
Preparation & Cooking Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Servings: 2–4
Ingredients
For the Flatbread
2 flatbreads (naan, pita, or thin pizza base)
½ cup mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
⅓ cup dried apricots (thinly sliced)
⅓ cup pecans
1 tbsp olive oil
Pinch of salt
For the Hot Honey Drizzle
3 tbsp honey
¼–½ tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
Optional Garnish
Fresh thyme or mint leaves
Freshly cracked black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Toast the Pecans
Heat a dry pan over medium heat.
Add pecans and toast for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
Remove and roughly chop.
Step 2: Prepare Hot Honey
Warm honey in a small saucepan or microwave (20–30 seconds).
Stir in chili flakes and let infuse.
Step 3: Crisp the Flatbread
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Brush flatbreads lightly with olive oil.
Bake for 5–6 minutes until slightly crisp.
Step 4: Assemble
Spread mascarpone evenly over warm flatbread.
Top with sliced dried apricots and toasted pecans.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of salt.
Step 5: Bake Again
Return to oven for 5–6 minutes until edges are golden and toppings warm.
Step 6: Finish & Serve
Drizzle with hot honey.
Add herbs or black pepper if desired.
Slice and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
Elegant appetizer for gatherings
Sweet brunch plate with coffee or tea
Light dessert with vanilla ice cream
Cheese board addition
Pro Tips
Use room-temperature mascarpone for easy spreading.
Don’t overbake — you want crisp edges but a tender center.
Toasting pecans enhances flavor dramatically.
Adjust chili flakes depending on spice preference.
Add a squeeze of lemon zest for extra brightness.
Variations
Extra Sweet: Add fresh figs or sliced pears.
Savory Twist: Add prosciutto or goat cheese.
Nut Swap: Use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans.
Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and maple syrup instead of honey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?
Yes. Cream cheese works well but has a tangier flavor. Soften it first for easy spreading.
Q2: How spicy is the hot honey?
Mild to medium depending on chili flakes. Start with less and adjust.
Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep toppings in advance, but assemble and bake just before serving for best crispness.
Q4: What type of flatbread works best?
Thin naan, pita, or any crisp pizza-style base works best.
Q5: How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in oven to restore crisp texture