The Allgäu region in southern Germany is renowned for its picturesque pastures, traditional farms, and rich dairy heritage. Rolling green meadows dotted with grazing cows produce many of the region’s cheeses and milk products, making the area a favorite for both hiking and skiing getaways. Visitors can enjoy cozy guesthouses and inns serving regional specialties like Speckfladen, a thin flatbread topped with savory German speck (bacon) that closely resembles the Alsace’s Flammkuchen.
Speckfladen is a simple, satisfying specialty from the Allgäu that highlights quality ingredients. The key is using authentic German speck, traditionally smoked for deep flavor. Avoid American-style cheeses for this recipe—opt instead for Swiss, German, Austrian, or Irish varieties to better complement the speck. With a crisp thin crust, a creamy topping, and melted cheese, Speckfladen is an easy dish that delivers distinctive regional taste. Enjoy preparing this classic at home!
Ingredients — Allgäu Specialty: Speckfladen
Dough
200 g flour
3 tsp baking powder
1 pinch salt
4 tbsp sunflower or canola oil
125 ml buttermilk
Topping
200 g speck (German bacon) or alternatively prosciutto or cooked ham
2 onions, finely chopped
salt and pepper to taste
200 g sour cream
100 g grated cheese such as Emmentaler, Gruyère, or an Irish farmhouse cheese
Nothing better than a German breakfast!
Cooking Instructions — Speckfladen
- In a bowl, combine the flour and baking powder, then add the salt, oil, and buttermilk.
- Knead the mixture briefly into a smooth dough and let it rest for 15 minutes.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into either one large thin flatbread or four smaller thin rounds—thinness is important for a crisp result.
- Mix the finely chopped onions and diced speck or ham with the sour cream and grated cheese.
- Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
- Spread the topping evenly over the rolled-out dough.
- Preheat the oven to 200 °C (around 390 °F) and bake the Speckfladen for about 20 minutes, until the edges are golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve hot from the oven with a simple green salad or as part of a hearty regional meal. This straightforward recipe showcases the smoky, savory flavors of speck paired with creamy sour cream and melting cheese for an authentic Allgäu experience.
Recipe and photo source: Chefkoch (original inspiration)