Heart-Shaped Flatbread with Burrata
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
I absolutely love making this heart-shaped flatbread with burrata, especially for special occasions or cozy dinners at home. The process is surprisingly simple yet yields impressive results that always delight my guests. The soft, chewy texture of the flatbread marries beautifully with the creamy burrata, creating a dish that's both comforting and elegant. I enjoy serving it with a drizzle of olive oil and some fresh herbs, turning it into the perfect centerpiece for any meal or sharing plate.
When I first tried making this heart-shaped flatbread, I was amazed at how easy it was to achieve such an impressive dish. The trick lies in letting the dough rest adequately, which gives it that perfect texture. Pairing it with fresh burrata adds a luxurious touch that's hard to resist.
During my last gathering, I served this flatbread warm out of the oven, sprinkled with sea salt and freshly cracked pepper. The guests couldn't get enough! It became an instant highlight of the evening, showcasing how simplicity can equal great taste when done right.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Delightfully chewy texture that's irresistible
- Creamy burrata adds a decadent touch to every bite
- Perfect for sharing during special occasions or casual get-togethers
Perfecting Your Flatbread Technique
To achieve the ideal texture in your flatbread, kneading is crucial. Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes. This process develops gluten, which is responsible for that delightful chewiness. Don’t rush it! If the dough feels sticky, dust a little more flour but avoid adding too much, as this could dry out the bread. You want to create a supple dough that you can gently stretch without tearing.
While letting the dough rise, ensure it's in a warm, draft-free area. This is essential for activating the yeast. If your kitchen is cool, placing the bowl on a warm stovetop or near an oven that’s set to low can help. The dough is ready when it has approximately doubled in size and feels puffy to the touch. Skipping this step can result in flatbread that lacks the airy texture you desire.
Drizzling Some Extra Flavor
The key to elevating your heart-shaped flatbread lies in the toppings. When adding burrata, allow it to come to room temperature beforehand. This enhances its creamy consistency and makes it easier to spread over the flatbread. Not only will it taste richer, but it will also balance beautifully with the chewiness of the bread. Remember, burrata is delicate; placing it too early in a hot pan might cause it to melt, losing its unique texture.
To finish your flatbread, don’t just drizzle olive oil haphazardly. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for a robust flavor, and drizzle it in a circular motion, allowing it to coat the cheese evenly. Don’t forget a generous sprinkle of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, which add texture and flavor contrast. You might also consider toppings like thinly sliced tomatoes or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a little heat!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful flatbread.
Flatbread Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
Topping Ingredients
- 8 ounces fresh burrata cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves
- Sea salt and black pepper to taste
Ensure all your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your heart-shaped flatbread with burrata.
Prepare the Dough
In a bowl, mix flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Slowly add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a rough dough forms. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
Let the Dough Rise
Place the kneaded dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes until doubled in size.
Shape the Flatbread
Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a large heart, about 1/4 inch thick.
Cook the Flatbread
Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the flatbread for about 3-4 minutes on each side until lightly browned.
Add the Toppings
Remove from heat and place the burrata cheese in the center. Drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with fresh basil, sea salt, and black pepper.
Serve warm as a delicious appetizer or main dish.
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, incorporate herbs or spices into the dough. Experiment with different toppings like arugula or sun-dried tomatoes for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
To make the heart-shaped flatbread even more inviting, consider serving it alongside a fresh arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the burrata. Alternatively, pair the flatbread with a selection of cured meats and olives for a shareable platter that encourages mingling at your gathering. It’s a perfect centerpiece that draws guests together.
For a unique twist, you can also use your flatbread as a base for mini pizzas. Try topping it with seasonal vegetables before adding the burrata. Slide the assembled bread back into a preheated oven for a couple of minutes until the veggies are slightly charred, offering a delightful char and additional depth of flavor. Don't hesitate to experiment with your favorite toppings!
Make-Ahead Tips
If you're planning for a special occasion, you can prepare the dough in advance. After kneading and letting it rise, you can freeze the dough. Ensure it's well-wrapped in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to use it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before shaping and cooking. This not only saves time but also allows for a fresher flatbread when serving.
Additionally, cooked flatbread can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days at room temperature. If you want to store it longer, refrigerating it is a good option. When reheating, place it back on a skillet for a minute or two on each side to regain that delightful chewiness, avoiding the microwave which could make it rubbery.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use store-bought flatbread?
Absolutely! If you're short on time, store-bought flatbreads can save you effort while still pairing well with burrata.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Wrap any leftover flatbread in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven for best results.
→ Can I modify the toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with toppings based on your taste. Grilled vegetables or prosciutto make wonderful additions.
→ Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this heart-shaped flatbread is vegetarian-friendly and perfect for those who enjoy plant-based dishes.
Heart-Shaped Flatbread with Burrata
I absolutely love making this heart-shaped flatbread with burrata, especially for special occasions or cozy dinners at home. The process is surprisingly simple yet yields impressive results that always delight my guests. The soft, chewy texture of the flatbread marries beautifully with the creamy burrata, creating a dish that's both comforting and elegant. I enjoy serving it with a drizzle of olive oil and some fresh herbs, turning it into the perfect centerpiece for any meal or sharing plate.
Created by: Vivienne Cole
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Flatbread Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
Topping Ingredients
- 8 ounces fresh burrata cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves
- Sea salt and black pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a bowl, mix flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Slowly add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a rough dough forms. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
Place the kneaded dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes until doubled in size.
Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a large heart, about 1/4 inch thick.
Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the flatbread for about 3-4 minutes on each side until lightly browned.
Remove from heat and place the burrata cheese in the center. Drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with fresh basil, sea salt, and black pepper.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, incorporate herbs or spices into the dough. Experiment with different toppings like arugula or sun-dried tomatoes for a twist.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 8g