Crispy Flatbread with Melted Brie, Pear Jam & Pistachio Dust
Description
This elegant appetizer combines the crunch of thin, crisp flatbread with the creamy indulgence of melted Brie cheese, topped with sweet pear jam and a delicate pistachio dust. It’s a perfect starter for dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or anytime you want a sophisticated bite with minimal effort. The balance of sweet, nutty, and savory flavors creates a delightful contrast that will impress your guests.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 8–10 minutes
Total time: 18–20 minutes
Servings: 4–6 appetizers
Ingredients
4 flatbreads or thin crispy crackers (store-bought or homemade)
200g Brie cheese, sliced
3 tablespoons pear jam (or any smooth fruit preserve)
¼ cup pistachios, shelled
1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
Fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)
Honey, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Prepare Pistachio Dust:
Place the pistachios in a food processor or blender.
Pulse until finely ground, but not into a powder—keep a slight texture for crunch.
Set aside.
Assemble Flatbreads:
Place flatbreads on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Spread 1 teaspoon of pear jam on each flatbread.
Lay slices of Brie on top of the jam, covering the flatbread but leaving a small border.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, until the Brie is melted and slightly golden.
Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Add Finishing Touches:
Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the pistachio dust over the melted Brie.
Optional: drizzle lightly with honey, sprinkle lemon zest, and garnish with fresh thyme leaves for an extra layer of flavor and aroma.
Serve:
Serve warm as an appetizer or snack. Enjoy the crisp, creamy, sweet, and nutty combination.
Tips & Variations
Flatbread alternatives: Thin pita crisps, lavash, or cracker-style bread work well.
Cheese swap: Camembert or goat cheese can be used instead of Brie for a stronger flavor.
Jam alternatives: Fig, apricot, or apple preserves are excellent substitutes.
Make it ahead: Flatbreads can be pre-assembled and baked just before serving to keep them crisp.
Questions & Answers
Q1: Can I make this gluten-free?
A1: Yes! Use gluten-free flatbreads or crackers. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Q2: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A2: You can assemble the flatbreads ahead of time but bake just before serving to ensure the Brie melts properly and the flatbread stays crispy.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store baked flatbreads in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. Reheat briefly in the oven to restore crispness.
Q4: Can I make it vegan?
A4: Use vegan Brie-style cheese and ensure the flatbread doesn’t contain dairy. Honey can be replaced with maple syrup if desired.
This dish is a perfect combination of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy, and it takes under 20 minutes to go from prep to plate.