Cranberry Pear Flatbread Recipe

Recently, I shared over 20 cranberry breakfast recipes with you. Now I’m sharing this cranberry pear flatbread recipe that’s perfect for your Christmas appetizer list!

The ingredients list is simple:

• mini naan.
• mascarpone cheese.
• cranberry sauce.
• pears.
• caramel sauce.

Which is great because we all want more simple recipes when it comes to the holidays, right? I know I do. After preparing and cooking tons of sides, I never feel like spending a lot of time making appetizers. For example, this year was my first year hosting Thanksgiving. On Thanksgiving eve, I prepared the side dishes for our feast. None of them were super simple to make and I felt like I was going to die after being on my feet all day. Thanksgiving day dinner was served early so I didn’t have to serve appetizers to my guests but if I had too, I would have made something easy like cheese and crackers. Or this cranberry pear flatbread.

Sort of off topic but every time I attempted to type “cranberry pear flatbread”, I typed “cranberry pear tart.” Do you ever do stuff like that? I must have tarts on my mind. Maybe I will dream about tarts tonight. Maybe I need to make a cranberry tart. Mmmm. Cranberry tart.

For now, I’ll enjoy this cranberry pear flatbread.

Skip to My Special Recipe!

Why This Cranberry Pear Flatbread Recipe Works

This Cranberry Pear Flatbread recipe is more than just a pretty appetizer. It’s a masterclass in balancing flavors and textures, and the secret lies in a few key choices that take it from good to absolutely unforgettable. The concept of a fruit and cheese flatbread is popular for a reason. It’s simple, elegant, and hits all the right notes of savory, sweet, and tart.

Many recipes you’ll find use goat cheese or even a simple cream cheese. While those are fine, my special twist is using mascarpone cheese. This Italian cream cheese is less tangy and much richer than its counterparts. Its velvety texture and slightly sweet flavor create a luxurious base that doesn’t compete with the other ingredients. Instead, it complements them beautifully.

Think of it this way. The mascarpone is like a plush velvet cushion for the tart, vibrant cranberry sauce and the delicate, sweet pear slices. It softens the edges of each flavor, melding them together into one harmonious bite. The naan bread provides a soft, chewy foundation that’s substantial enough to hold the toppings without being heavy like a traditional pizza crust.

Finally, the drizzle of caramel sauce at the end is the finishing touch that ties everything together. It adds a layer of buttery sweetness that elevates the pear and makes the entire flatbread feel like a truly decadent treat. It’s a simple recipe, but the thoughtful combination of these specific ingredients is what makes it a standout success every single time.

Ingredients for Cranberry Pear Flatbread

One of the best things about this recipe is its short and sweet ingredient list. We’re focusing on quality over quantity here, letting each component shine. You don’t need a cart full of groceries to create something that looks and tastes this elegant. It’s all about choosing the right items to create that perfect balance.

My secret ingredient, the one that truly makes this Cranberry Pear Flatbread recipe sing, is the mascarpone cheese. Please don’t substitute this if you can help it. Its rich, creamy texture and subtly sweet flavor is what sets this flatbread apart from all the others. It creates a luscious foundation that is simply divine. For the pears, I recommend a Bosc or Anjou. They are firm enough to hold their shape and have a wonderful sweetness that pairs perfectly with the tart cranberries.

Here’s exactly what you’ll need:

• 4 mini naan
• 4 tbsp mascarpone cheese
• 6 tbsp cranberry sauce
• 1 pear, halved, cored and sliced thin
• Caramel sauce for drizzling

A quick note on a few of these items. If you can’t find mini naan, two regular-sized naan will work just fine. Just double up the topping amounts for each one. For the cranberry sauce, a good quality whole-berry sauce, whether it’s homemade or store-bought, will give you the best texture. The little pops of whole cranberries are a delight. And for the caramel sauce, a nice thick dessert topping works beautifully for that perfect finishing drizzle.

Step-by-Step Instructions For Making Cranberry Pear Flatbread

This recipe comes together in minutes, which is why it’s one of my go-to choices for easy entertaining. There’s no complicated cooking involved, just simple assembly. The key is to handle the ingredients with a little care to create a flatbread that looks as good as it tastes. Let’s walk through it together.

Before you begin, I find it helpful to let the mascarpone sit on the counter for about 10 to 15 minutes. This little step softens it just enough to make it spread like a dream without tearing the delicate naan bread.

Step 1: Spread the Mascarpone Cheese

Take your four mini naan and place them on a clean work surface or a baking sheet. Using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, spread one tablespoon of that lovely, softened mascarpone cheese evenly over the surface of each naan. Try to get it all the way to the edges to ensure every bite has that creamy, rich base.

Step 2: Add the Cranberry Sauce

Next, spoon one and a half tablespoons of cranberry sauce right on top of the mascarpone layer. Again, use the back of your spoon to gently spread it out. You don’t have to cover the mascarpone completely. It’s nice to see little bits of the white cheese peeking through. This creates a beautiful marbled effect and ensures the cranberry doesn’t overpower everything.

Step 3: Arrange the Pear Slices

Now for the fresh pear. Make sure you’ve sliced it nice and thin. This helps it lay flat and makes the flatbread easier to eat. Artfully arrange four to five slices of pear on top of the cranberry sauce on each naan. You can fan them out in a line or create a little circular pattern, whatever feels right to you.

Step 4: Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

Here comes the grand finale. Take your caramel sauce and drizzle it generously over the top of all four flatbreads. I like to do a quick back-and-forth motion to create those pretty, thin lines of caramel. This little touch of sweetness is what makes this Cranberry Pear Flatbread so special. Serve them immediately and watch them disappear.

How To Serve Cranberry Pear Flatbread

The beauty of this Cranberry Pear Flatbread is its incredible versatility. It can play so many different roles depending on the occasion. I most often serve it as an elegant appetizer for holiday gatherings or dinner parties. Cut the mini naan in half or into quarters to create perfect, two-bite treats that are easy for guests to enjoy while they mingle.

It also makes a fantastic light lunch. Pair one whole mini flatbread with a simple arugula salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. The peppery greens are a wonderful contrast to the sweet and creamy flatbread. It’s a sophisticated yet incredibly simple midday meal that feels like a special treat.

Don’t be afraid to let it cross over into dessert territory either. The combination of pear, cranberry, and caramel is certainly sweet enough to satisfy a post-dinner craving. Here are a few of my favorite ways to present them.

• For a Party: Arrange the flatbreads, cut into wedges, on a large wooden board or a festive platter. Garnish with a few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary for a pop of color and a lovely aromatic touch.
• For a Brunch: Serve them whole alongside a savory egg dish, like a frittata or quiche, to create a beautiful sweet and savory spread for your guests.
• As a Dessert: Add an extra drizzle of caramel sauce and maybe a tiny sprinkle of flaky sea salt to really bring out the flavors. You could even add a small dollop of whipped cream if you’re feeling extra indulgent.

No matter how you serve it, this flatbread is always a hit. It’s a conversation starter, a crowd-pleaser, and a recipe that proves simple ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. Just be prepared to share the recipe.

How To Store & Reuse Cranberry Pear Flatbread Leftovers

Honestly, we rarely have leftovers of this Cranberry Pear Flatbread in my house. They tend to vanish from the platter pretty quickly. But on the off chance you do have a few pieces left over, it’s important to store them properly to maintain their deliciousness for the next day. The key is to protect the naan from getting too soft while keeping the toppings fresh.

The best way to store them is in a single layer in an airtight container. If you need to stack them, place a piece of parchment or wax paper between the layers to prevent them from sticking together and making a mess. Pop the container in the refrigerator, where they’ll keep well for up to two days. After that, the naan can start to get a little soggy.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, please, I beg you, stay away from the microwave. It will turn that lovely, soft naan into a tough and chewy disappointment. A few minutes of gentle reheating in the oven or an air fryer is all you need to bring these beauties back to life. This method will re-crisp the edges of the naan while warming the toppings through perfectly.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven or toaster oven to 350°F. Place the leftover flatbreads on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is soft again.
• Air Fryer Method: Set your air fryer to 325°F. Place the flatbreads in the basket in a single layer and heat for 3 to 4 minutes. Keep a close eye on them, as air fryers can work very quickly.

Once reheated, they’ll taste almost as good as when they were freshly made. They’re perfect for a quick snack or an easy lunch the next day. It’s a delicious reward for not eating them all in one sitting.

Substitutions & Variations For Cranberry Pear Flatbread

While I believe this recipe is pretty perfect as is, I’m always a fan of making a recipe your own. Your kitchen, your rules. This Cranberry Pear Flatbread is a fantastic canvas for a little creativity, and there are plenty of simple swaps and additions you can make depending on your taste or what you have on hand.

The most obvious place to experiment is with the cheese. If you simply can’t find mascarpone or want a different flavor profile, you have options. A soft goat cheese will give you a tangier, more savory result. A creamy brie, with the rind removed, would be absolutely decadent as it melts. Even simple whipped cream cheese with a touch of honey mixed in could work in a pinch.

You can also play with the toppings to add different layers of flavor and texture. A sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts would add a wonderful crunch. For a more savory spin, try adding some crispy, crumbled prosciutto or bacon on top. Here are a few more ideas to get you started.

• Fruit Swap: If pears aren’t in season, thinly sliced apples, especially a tart variety like Granny Smith, would be a delicious substitute. Even figs would be wonderful when they are available.
• Base Variations: Don’t have naan? No problem. You can use pita bread, slices of focaccia, or even a pre-baked pizza crust as your base. Puff pastry squares, baked until golden, would create an extra elegant version.
• Drizzle Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of caramel, a balsamic glaze would be a fantastic alternative, adding a tangy and complex flavor that pairs beautifully with the pear and cranberry. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup would also be lovely.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas. Cooking should be fun and creative, so use this recipe as a starting point and see where your imagination takes you. I’d love to hear about your creations.

Cranberry Pear Flatbread Recipe

Yield: 4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Print

Ingredients

• 4 mini naan*
• 4 tbsp mascarpone cheese
• 6 tbsp cranberry sauce*
• 1 pear, halved, cored and sliced thin
• Caramel sauce for drizzling

Instructions

1. Spread 1 tbsp of mascarpone cheese on each naan.
2. Spoon 1 1/2 tbsp of cranberry sauce over the mascarpone cheese on each naan and spread to evenly distribute.
3. Top each naan with 4-5 sliced pears.
4. Drizzle with caramel sauce.

Notes

If you're unable to find mini naan, use two regular sized naan and adjust the measurements for each accordingly. For example, use 2 tbsp mascarpone cheese, 3 tbsp, 10 pear slices for each regular sized naan.

I followed this recipe for homemade cranberry sauce but you're welcome to use store-bought or leftover cranberry sauce in place of the homemade sauce.

5 FAQs About Cranberry Pear Flatbread

Here are some straightforward answers to the most common questions I receive about this Cranberry Pear Flatbread recipe.

Can I make this Cranberry Pear Flatbread ahead of time?

This is a great question, especially when you’re planning for a party and trying to manage your time. While this flatbread is at its absolute best when assembled and served fresh, you can certainly do some prep work in advance to make the final assembly a breeze. The key is to store the components separately to prevent the naan from getting soggy.

You can slice your pear ahead of time. To keep the slices from browning, toss them gently with a tiny bit of lemon juice, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. You can also get your mascarpone, cranberry sauce, and caramel sauce measured out and ready to go. When your guests arrive, all you’ll have to do is assemble the flatbreads, which takes less than five minutes. This prep-ahead approach gives you a fresh, delicious appetizer without the last-minute stress.

What kind of pear is best for Cranberry Pear Flatbread?

The type of pear you choose can make a subtle but important difference in the final result. For this Cranberry Pear Flatbread, you’ll want a pear that is firm-ripe. This means it has developed its sweetness but still has enough structure to hold its shape when sliced and handled. Pears that are too soft or overripe will turn mushy and release too much water.

My top recommendations are Bosc or Anjou pears. Bosc pears are fantastic because they have a dense, crisp flesh that slices beautifully and doesn’t fall apart. They also have a lovely sweet-spicy flavor that complements the cranberry and caramel. Anjou pears are another excellent choice, with a firm texture and a sweet, mild flavor. I would avoid Bartlett pears for this recipe unless they are very firm, as they tend to be softer and more delicate.

Can I use a different cheese in my Cranberry Pear Flatbread?

Absolutely. While I personally believe the creamy, rich mascarpone is the secret to this recipe’s magic, you can definitely substitute it with other cheeses to create different flavor profiles. The choice of cheese will be the most significant flavor variation you can make, so pick something you love.

Goat cheese is a very popular choice for fruit flatbreads. It will give your Cranberry Pear Flatbread a much tangier, more savory, and “earthy” flavor that contrasts sharply with the sweet elements. Another wonderful option is brie. If you use brie, I recommend removing the rind and using small dollops of the creamy cheese. It will melt into a luscious, buttery layer. For a simpler, milder option, you could even use whipped cream cheese, perhaps with a little honey or maple syrup mixed in to add a touch of sweetness.

Is it better to use homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce for this flatbread?

You can achieve a delicious result with either option, so the choice really comes down to your personal preference and how much time you have. If you have leftover homemade cranberry sauce from a holiday meal, this is the absolute perfect way to use it. The flavor is often brighter and more complex than store-bought varieties.

That said, a good quality store-bought cranberry sauce works wonderfully here and makes the recipe incredibly quick and easy. My one recommendation is to choose a whole-berry cranberry sauce rather than a smooth, jellied one. The texture of the whole berries adds a pleasant pop and a more rustic, appealing look to the finished flatbread. The jellied kind can be a bit too uniform and sometimes contains more water, which could make the naan soggy.

How do I prevent my Cranberry Pear Flatbread from getting soggy?

This is the most critical question for ensuring a perfect flatbread. There are a few simple tricks to keep your naan base perfectly soft and chewy, not wet and soggy. First and foremost, assemble the flatbreads right before you plan to serve them. The longer the toppings sit on the naan, the more moisture will seep in.

Second, be mindful of your ingredients. As I mentioned, use a thick, whole-berry cranberry sauce, not a watery or jellied one. Pat your pear slices gently with a paper towel before placing them on the flatbread to remove any excess moisture. Finally, don’t go overboard with the toppings. It can be tempting to pile them on, but a thinner, even layer of mascarpone and cranberry sauce will deliver all the flavor you need without waterlogging the base. Following these tips will guarantee a perfect texture every time.

Try These Recipes Next

If you loved the sweet and savory combination in this flatbread, I have a few other recipes I think you’ll enjoy.

• Grilled Nectarine Flatbread: A perfect summer appetizer with juicy grilled nectarines and creamy cheese.
• Easy Cranberry Pear Compote: If you loved the topping, learn how to make a big batch of this delicious compote to serve with everything.
• Baked Pears with Honey, Cranberries and Pecans: A simple, elegant dessert that highlights the same beautiful fruit flavors.

I hope you give them a try and let me know what you think.