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Balsamic Pear Pizza with Mozzarella, Onions, and Pecan Halves Recipe

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4.3 from 15 reviews

This sweet and savory balsamic pear pizza combines a crispy homemade or store-bought pizza dough base topped with caramelized onions, fresh thyme, juicy pear slices, melted mozzarella cheese, and crunchy pecan halves. Finished with a homemade balsamic glaze, this pizza offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, perfect for a gourmet twist on a classic favorite.

Ingredients

For the Pizza

  • 1 recipe homemade pizza dough or 12 ounces store-bought pizza dough
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 pear
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 cup (113g) shredded mozzarella cheese (4 ounces)
  • 1/2 cup pecan halves

For the Balsamic Glaze

  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and spray a rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray to prepare for baking the pizza.
  2. Prepare Dough: Shape the pizza dough into a roughly 15-inch by 10-inch rectangle. Place it on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8 minutes until just starting to cook.
  3. Cook Onions: While the dough bakes, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions, fresh thyme, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Sauté, stirring occasionally, for 3 to 5 minutes until the onions turn translucent and begin to brown around the edges.
  4. Prepare Pear: Core and thinly slice the pear, then toss the slices with lemon juice to prevent browning and add a subtle tang.
  5. Assemble Pizza: Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the par-baked pizza crust. Evenly scatter the cooked onions, shredded mozzarella, pear slices, and pecan halves across the top.
  6. Finish Baking: Return the pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 6 to 10 minutes until the cheese melts fully and starts to bubble.
  7. Make Balsamic Glaze: While the pizza finishes baking, combine the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until thickened to a syrupy consistency.
  8. Serve: Drizzle the warm balsamic glaze over the hot baked pear pizza. Slice and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • If you prefer, use store-bought balsamic glaze to skip making the balsamic syrup.
  • The onion should be cooked until slightly caramelized for a richer flavor.
  • Tossing pear slices with lemon juice prevents discoloration and adds brightness.
  • Use a rimmed baking sheet to prevent any toppings from spilling over during baking.
  • Nutrition facts are approximate and depend on specific ingredient brands and quantities used.