These caramelized onion tartlets are a perfect little bite of goodness! With sweet onions cooked until golden and warm, wrapped in a flaky pastry, they make any meal feel special.
I can’t resist their tasty smell while baking. They’re great for snacks or as a fancy appetizer! Plus, they’re so easy to whip up. You’ll impress everyone in no time! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Onions: They are the star of this recipe! Their sweetness intensifies when caramelized. If you only have red or white onions, those work too, but they offer a slightly different flavor.
Puff Pastry: This flaky pastry creates a perfect base for the tartlets. Frozen puff pastry is convenient, but if you’re looking for a healthier option, try using whole wheat pastry dough or even phyllo dough for a lighter feel.
Cheese: I love using blue cheese for its bold flavor. Goat cheese is another great choice; it’s creamy and adds a tangy note. For a milder option, try shredded mozzarella or cheddar. These offer a different character to the dish!
Fresh Thyme: This herb adds a lovely aroma and flavor. If you don’t have it, dried thyme can work in a pinch, but use less since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do I Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions takes time but is definitely worth it! The goal is to slowly cook them until they are golden and sweet. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add the sliced onions, sugar, and some salt. Stir them well to coat.
- Cook gently for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn a deep golden color.
- If they start to brown too quickly, reduce the heat to low. You want sugar to caramelize gently, not burn!
- Once done, sprinkle with pepper and let them cool before filling your pastry shells.
Patience is key, so don’t rush this step. The flavor boost you get is just amazing!
Caramelized Onion Tartlets
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Tarts:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 3 oz (about 85 g) blue cheese or goat cheese, crumbled
- Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish, optional)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and around 20 minutes for baking. Be sure to allow time for caramelizing the onions, which takes about 30-40 minutes, so plan accordingly. Altogether, you’ll need about an hour to whip these up and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter with the olive oil. Once melted, add the sliced onions, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir the onions to coat them evenly in the butter and oil. Cook slowly, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning. This should take around 30-40 minutes, until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized. Adjust the heat as needed and season them with pepper before setting aside to cool.
2. Preheat the Oven:
While the onions are caramelizing, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot when your tartlets are ready to bake!
3. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet slightly to smooth it out. Use a round cutter to cut circles about 3 to 4 inches in diameter. You’ll need enough circles to fill your muffin or tartlet tin.
4. Create the Tartlet Shells:
Take each pastry circle and gently press it into the cups of your muffin or tartlet tin. Push the dough up the sides to form little shells, making sure they fit snugly in the pan.
5. Fill the Tartlets:
Start by spooning a small amount of crumbled cheese into the base of each pastry shell. Then, top generously with the caramelized onions to create a hearty filling.
6. Egg Wash:
In a small bowl, beat the egg together with the water. Using a brush, lightly coat the edges of the pastry with the egg wash. This will help give your tartlets that beautiful golden color when baked!
7. Bake the Tartlets:
Carefully place the prepared tartlets in the preheated oven and bake them for 15-20 minutes. You want the pastry to puff up and turn golden brown—just what we’re looking for!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the tartlets from the oven and let them cool slightly. If you like, garnish each tartlet with a small sprig of fresh thyme for a touch of color and flavor. These can be served warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for any gathering or even a cozy night in!
Enjoy these rich and savory caramelized onion tartlets as an elegant appetizer or delightful snack!
Can I Use Different Types of Onions?
Absolutely! While yellow onions are sweet and ideal for caramelizing, you can substitute with red or white onions. Just keep in mind that they will impart a slightly different flavor to the tartlets.
Can I Make These Tartlets in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the caramelized onions and pastry shells a day ahead. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When ready to serve, fill the shells and bake for fresh tartlets!
How to Store Leftover Tartlets?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness before serving.
What Should I Serve These Tartlets With?
These delicious tartlets pair well with a simple green salad or a charcuterie board. They also make a great addition to a festive appetizer spread at parties!
