Irresistible Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
These Irresistible Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tarts feature a flaky puff pastry base topped with sweet, deeply caramelized onions and creamy tangy goat cheese. Enhanced with a touch of balsamic vinegar and fresh thyme, these elegant tarts are perfect as an appetizer or light meal that combines rich flavors and a delightful texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 tarts 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pastry and Topping
- 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
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it is hot and ready for baking the tarts perfectly.
- Caramelize the onions: In a pan over medium heat, warm the olive oil and butter until melted and combined. Add the thinly sliced onions along with sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 20 minutes until the onions are soft, golden, and caramelized.
- Add flavorings: Stir the balsamic vinegar and fresh thyme leaves into the caramelized onions for a burst of acidity and herby aroma. Remove the pan from heat to prevent overcooking.
- Prepare the puff pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet gently. Cut the dough into evenly sized squares, perfect for individual tarts.
- Assemble the tarts: On each pastry square, spread a generous layer of the caramelized onion mixture, then sprinkle crumbled goat cheese on top for creamy richness.
- Bake the tarts: Arrange the assembled tarts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Serve warm: Once baked, remove the tarts from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving warm for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- You can prepare the caramelized onions ahead of time and refrigerate them to save time on the day of baking.
- For a crispier crust, prick the puff pastry lightly with a fork before adding toppings.
- Fresh thyme can be substituted with rosemary or sage for a different herbal note.
- These tarts are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes.
- Use high-quality goat cheese for the best flavor and creaminess.
Keywords: caramelized onion tart, goat cheese tart, puff pastry appetizers, savory tarts, easy party food, French appetizer
