These caramelized onion tartlets are a heavenly mix of sweet, soft onions wrapped in crunchy pastry. Perfect for a cozy snack or party starter!
I love how easy they are to whip up, and everyone seems to enjoy them! Just imagine popping one into your mouth, and all that flavor unfolds. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star of the tartlets! You can use store-bought for ease, but homemade is great if you have the time. If you want a lighter option, try phyllo dough instead—just layer several sheets before cutting.
Onions: Yellow onions are best for caramelizing due to their sweetness. If you’re in a pinch, white onions will work too, but avoid red onions as they can be too sharp for this recipe.
Butter and Olive Oil: Using both gives a nice flavor balance. If you’re dairy-free, replace butter with additional olive oil or use a vegan butter alternative.
Goat Cheese or Feta: Both are fantastic for adding creaminess. If cheese is not your thing, try ricotta or a dairy-free cream cheese for a similar texture.
How Do You Get Those Onions Perfectly Caramelized?
Caramelizing onions is all about patience! Start by cooking sliced onions in butter and olive oil on medium heat. Don’t rush it!
- Cook the onions slowly for the best flavor, about 25-30 minutes total.
- Sprinkle with sugar to help them caramelize more quickly.
- If onions start to stick to the pan, add a splash of water to deglaze.
- Finish with balsamic vinegar for an added depth of flavor, if you like.
How to Make Caramelized Onion Tartlets
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tartlets:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
Time Estimate:
This recipe will take about 35-40 minutes, including 10-15 minutes for prepping the ingredients and an additional 15-20 minutes for baking your tartlets. Perfect for a quick yet tasty treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare for Baking:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, lightly grease a mini muffin tin or tartlet pan so the pastry doesn’t stick. This ensures easy removal after baking!
2. Cook the Onions:
In a large skillet, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions along with a pinch of salt. Cook them slowly, stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes. This lets them become soft and translucent.
3. Caramelize the Onions:
Once the onions are softened, sprinkle the sugar over them. Continue cooking for another 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently, until they turn a deep golden brown and are caramelized. If you like, add balsamic vinegar now, stir it in, and cook for one more minute. Then, remove from heat and set aside.
4. Shape the Puff Pastry:
Lightly flour your workspace and roll out the puff pastry sheet. Using a round cutter (or a glass), cut circles slightly larger than the size of your tartlet mold. Gently press each circle into the greased muffin tin to form little pastry shells.
5. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle about a teaspoon of crumbled goat cheese or feta into each pastry shell. This cheese will add a delicious creaminess to your tartlets!
6. Top with Caramelized Onions:
Now, scoop 1-2 tablespoons of the caramelized onions and place them gently on top of the cheese in each pastry shell. Press the onions down slightly so they fit well and don’t overflow.
7. Bake the Tartlets:
Pop the tartlets into the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up. The aroma will be amazing!
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, carefully remove the tartlets from the oven. Allow them to cool for a few minutes in the tin before transferring to a serving platter. Garnish each tartlet with a fresh sprig of thyme for a lovely touch.
Enjoy these delightful caramelized onion tartlets warm or at room temperature as an irresistible appetizer or snack! They’re sure to impress your guests!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While goat cheese and feta add great flavor, you can also use ricotta, cream cheese, or even shredded mozzarella for a different taste. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will change the flavor profile slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover tartlets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to get the pastry crisp again, or microwave for about 30 seconds if you’re in a hurry.
Can I Make the Onions Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can caramelize the onions up to 3 days in advance! Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to assemble the tartlets, just reheat the onions in a skillet for a few minutes before adding them to the pastry shells.
What If I Don’t Have Puff Pastry?
No worries! You can substitute puff pastry with phyllo dough, biscuit dough, or even a shortcrust pastry. Just be aware that the texture will change; phyllo will be crispier, while biscuit dough will be more tender.
