Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tarts in 3 Easy Steps Recipe
These irresistible caramelized onion and goat cheese tarts feature sweet, jammy onions paired with tangy goat cheese on a flaky puff pastry base. Perfect as an elegant appetizer or light snack, this recipe is easy to follow with just three simple steps to achieving golden, melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed but still cold)
Caramelized Onions
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced (yellow or sweet)
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- Extra fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: Heat olive oil and butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions along with sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes between stirs, continuing for 15 minutes until onions turn golden. Add balsamic vinegar and thyme, cooking another 5 minutes until onions are jammy and aromatic. If onions stick, add a splash of water to deglaze.
- Assemble the Tarts: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the cold puff pastry and cut into 6 rectangles. Spread the caramelized onions evenly over each piece, leaving a small border at the edges. Generously crumble goat cheese on top and sprinkle extra fresh thyme if desired.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place the assembled tarts on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes until the pastry is golden brown and puffed, and cheese is starting to melt and brown. Check frequently after 15 minutes to avoid burning. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Pat caramelized onions with paper towels before assembling to remove excess moisture and prevent soggy pastry.
- Chill assembled tarts in the fridge for 10 minutes to ensure extra flaky puff pastry layers.
- Use fresh thyme whenever possible for the best flavor; if using dried, crush it between your fingers before adding.
- Spread onions all the way to the edges for maximum flavor in every bite.
- Resist stirring onions constantly while caramelizing to allow proper browning and sweetness development.
