Name: Irresistible Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed; 2 large onions, thinly sliced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp butter; 1 tsp sugar; 1 tsp balsamic vinegar; 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled; 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves; Salt and pepper to taste

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Introduction

These Irresistible Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tarts combine sweet, tender onions with creamy goat cheese on a flaky puff pastry base. Perfect as an elegant appetizer or a cozy snack, they offer a balance of savory and tangy flavors that are sure to delight your taste buds.

A small round tart sits on a white plate with a white marbled texture surface beneath. The tart has a thick golden puff pastry base with visible flaky layers. On top, there is a caramelized layer of soft, glossy, dark brown and amber caramelized onions, creating a textured, slightly sticky surface. Scattered over the onions are small clumps of white goat cheese with some green herbs, adding a creamy and crumbly contrast. Tiny fresh green thyme sprigs are placed on top, giving a fresh touch and a pop of green color. The lighting highlights the shiny glaze of the onions and the crispness of the pastry edges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp balsamic vinegar
4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the tarts.
Step 2: In a pan over medium heat, warm the olive oil and butter until melted and combined.
Step 3: Add the thinly sliced onions, sugar, salt, and pepper to the pan. Cook gently, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and caramelized, about 20 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in the balsamic vinegar and fresh thyme leaves, then remove the pan from the heat.
Step 5: Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into squares of your desired size.
Step 6: Evenly distribute the caramelized onion mixture over each puff pastry square, then sprinkle crumbled goat cheese on top.
Step 7: Place the topped squares on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
Step 8: Remove from the oven and serve the tarts warm for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh thyme or substitute with rosemary for a different herbal note.
Add a drizzle of honey before serving to complement the caramelized onions with a touch of sweetness.
For a vegan version, use plant-based puff pastry and replace goat cheese with a vegan cheese alternative.
Ensure onions are cooked low and slow to avoid burning and to develop deep caramel flavor.

Storage

Store leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

A small round tart with three visible layers sits on a white plate over a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a golden-brown flaky pastry crust, puffed and slightly uneven in texture. The middle layer is a thick heap of rich, glossy caramelized onions, deep brown with hints of amber and translucent edges. On top are dollops of creamy white cheese, with slight browning and small bits of herbs mixed in. Tiny green sprigs of fresh herbs are scattered on top, adding a touch of brightness to the warm tones of the tart. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these tarts ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the caramelized onions in advance and store them in the fridge. Assemble the tarts just before baking to keep the pastry fresh and flaky.

What can I use if I don’t have puff pastry?

If puff pastry is unavailable, you can use a shortcrust pastry or phyllo dough, though the texture and rise will differ slightly from classic puff pastry.