Flammenkuchen, also known as Tarte Flambée, is a crispy, thin-crust flatbread topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon.
Popular in southern Germany and Alsace, it delivers big flavor with simple ingredients.
Serve it fresh out of the oven as an appetizer, a light lunch, or a casual dinner paired with salad or a crisp glass of Riesling.
Flammenkuchen Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C) or as high as your oven safely allows. Place a baking sheet or pizza stone inside to heat.Prepare the dough by combining flour and salt in a large bowl. Add olive oil and water. Stir until a dough forms, then knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rest while prepping toppings.
- Mix the topping base by combining crème fraîche, nutmeg, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Whisk until smooth.Slice onions very thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline. Chop bacon into small strips or cubes.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a thin rectangle or oval, about 1/8 inch thick. Place it on parchment paper.Spread crème fraîche mixture evenly across the dough. Top with sliced onions and bacon.
- Transfer to oven by sliding the parchment onto the preheated baking sheet or pizza stone. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are crisp and golden, and bacon is cooked.Remove from oven and garnish with fresh chives or parsley if desired. Cut into slices and serve hot.
Video
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 430 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 37g |
| Protein | 12g |
| Fat | 26g |
| Serving Size | ~210g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 10g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 50mg |
| Sodium | 620mg |
| Potassium | 210mg |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Vitamin A | 550 IU |
| Vitamin C | 3mg |
| Calcium | 80mg |
| Iron | 2.2mg |
Are There Alterantive Ingredients You can Use?
Flammenkuchen is highly adaptable, making it an excellent canvas for creative ingredient swaps without losing its essence.
Originally made with a simple topping of bacon, onions, and crème fraîche on a crisp flatbread crust, it can be easily adjusted for dietary preferences or based on what’s available in your kitchen.
For those avoiding pork or aiming for a vegetarian version, there’s no shortage of flavorful alternatives.
The smoky and salty profile of bacon can be mimicked using other ingredients that bring depth and contrast to the creamy base.
Sautéed mushrooms work especially well, offering an earthy umami flavor that balances beautifully with the tangy topping.
Choose varieties like cremini, shiitake, or oyster mushrooms, and cook them until golden brown to bring out their full flavor.
Caramelized onions are another excellent option, enhancing sweetness and richness while staying true to the original texture and feel of the dish.
For those looking to retain a touch of smokiness, smoked tofu cut into small cubes can offer a protein-rich, plant-based alternative that crisps up nicely in the oven.
The creamy base is traditionally made with crème fraîche, but there are several substitutes that maintain the dish’s balance.
- Sour cream: Readily available and slightly tangier, it mirrors the texture of crème fraîche and browns nicely in the oven.
- Greek yogurt: Use full-fat for the closest match in consistency.
- Vegan crème: Options made from cashews, almonds, or soy can easily stand in for dairy.
- Ricotta cheese: Softer and slightly milder, ricotta adds creaminess.
What to Serve with Flammenkuchen
@foxnestfood Cheat’s Flammkuchen This is perfect quick dinner or lunch! So simple to make, delicious and great with a cold, crisp beer or a glass of vino. Serve as is or with a salad 👌🏼 What you need (serves 4) * 4 flatbreads * 225g smoked bacon lardons, slightly crisped * One Red onion sliced thinly * Sour cream (season well with aromat or salt and a sprinkle of garlic powder or grated fresh garlic) * 2 balls of fresh mozzarella, torn * Black pepper * Salt (if needed) * Chives to garnish What to do: – Put a nice dollop of the seasoned sour cream on each flatbread – Add the bacon lardons, onion, mozzarella and black pepper – Airfry for 8-10 mins at 200 degrees celsius (airfryer differ, keep an eye) – Garnish with chives – Slice and serve #flammkuchen #tarteflambee #pizza #lunch #easydinner #airfryerrecipes ##fyp ♬ original sound – FoxNestFood
Flammenkuchen pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes and drinks that enhance its crisp texture and creamy, savory topping.
A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette is a classic companion, adding a refreshing contrast and helping to balance the richness of the flatbread.
Arugula, endive, or mixed greens with a mustard-based dressing work particularly well. For something heartier, a warm potato salad made with vinegar, mustard, and fresh herbs provides a tangy, satisfying side without overshadowing the main dish.
Soups also complement Flammenkuchen nicely, especially lighter broths or vegetable-based options. Consider serving it with a bowl of leek and potato soup or a clear vegetable consommé for a cozy and balanced meal.
For a more casual setup, slice the Flammenkuchen into smaller pieces and serve it alongside a cheese board or antipasti platter, allowing it to function as both a centerpiece and a shareable bite.
On the beverage side, dry white wines like Riesling, Pinot Blanc, or Silvaner highlight the creamy topping and smoky notes of the dish. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with lemon or a crisp apple spritzer can refresh the palate between bites.
Serving Ideas for Flammenkuchen
Flammenkuchen is incredibly versatile, making it ideal for both casual and elegant occasions. Serve it as a main course by cutting it into larger slices and pairing it with seasonal salads or simple vegetable sides.
For family dinners or weeknight meals, prepare multiple variations with different toppings, like mushroom and herb, spinach and feta, or a vegan version, and let everyone choose their favorite. It also works well for lunch when served with soup or a light grain salad.
For entertaining, slice Flammenkuchen into smaller squares or strips and offer it as a warm appetizer or finger food. It holds up well at room temperature for short periods, making it a great choice for gatherings, picnics, or potlucks.
Hosting a themed night? Add a few regional touches like German pickles, soft pretzels, or a mustard dipping sauce to round out the presentation. For brunch, top it with a poached or soft-cooked egg just before serving and offer it alongside fresh fruit or roasted vegetables.
Closing Thoughts
Flammenkuchen offers a perfect balance of crispy crust, creamy topping, and savory ingredients, all with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Its flexibility makes it suitable for everything from a quick weeknight dinner to a standout dish at your next gathering.
With countless topping and serving possibilities, it’s easy to make this traditional German flatbread your own. Give it a try, experiment with variations, and enjoy a dish that’s both comforting and crowd-pleasing.
