Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tartlets are elegant, flavorful, and incredibly versatile, perfect for holiday parties, brunch spreads, or sophisticated appetizers at any celebration. These bite-sized tartlets feature buttery, flaky crusts filled with rich, sweet caramelized onions and tangy goat cheese, delivering a savory-sweet balance in every mouthful. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas dinner, a bridal shower, or looking for an elevated snack for a wine night, these tartlets are sure to impress. You can prepare the onion filling ahead of time and assemble the tartlets fresh before baking, making this a fuss-free yet refined addition to your appetizer menu.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp balsamic vinegar
- 6 oz goat cheese, softened
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried)
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed (or use tartlet shells)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional garnish: honey drizzle, chopped fresh chives, or extra thyme
Preparation
Step 1:
In a large skillet over medium-low heat, warm the olive oil and butter. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring often, for 25–30 minutes.
Step 2:
Once the onions are soft and golden, stir in brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook another 5–10 minutes until deeply caramelized.
Step 3:
Deglaze with balsamic vinegar and cook until the liquid is mostly evaporated. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
Step 4:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 5:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry and cut into 2- to 3-inch rounds (or squares). Press into mini muffin tins or lay flat on a baking sheet for open tartlets.
Step 6:
In a small bowl, mix the goat cheese with thyme until smooth. Place about ½ teaspoon of goat cheese in the center of each tartlet.
Step 7:
Top each with a spoonful of caramelized onions.
Step 8:
Brush the edges with egg wash. Bake for 15–20 minutes, until golden and puffed.
Step 9:
Cool slightly and garnish as desired before serving.
Variation
- Herbed Tartlets: Mix goat cheese with rosemary, basil, or parsley.
- Sweet Touch: Add a small dollop of fig jam or drizzle honey over finished tartlets.
- Cheese Swap: Replace goat cheese with brie, feta, or blue cheese.
- Add Protein: Add a small piece of crispy bacon or pancetta for added richness.
- Mini Phyllo Cups: Use store-bought phyllo shells instead of puff pastry for a crispier bite.
Cooking Notes
- Caramelizing onions takes time,don’t rush or increase heat.
- Onions can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge.
- Puff pastry should be kept cold until ready to use for best results.
- If using mini muffin tins, lightly grease or use a non-stick spray.
- Goat cheese can be softened in the microwave for 10 seconds to ease mixing.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm or at room temperature for easy entertaining.
- Pair with sparkling wine or dry rosé for a classy appetizer.
- Great addition to brunch buffets or grazing boards.
- Add to a holiday appetizer spread with olives, nuts, and crackers.
- Serve alongside a winter salad with arugula, pears, and walnuts.
Tips
- For richer flavor, use a mix of yellow and red onions.
- Freeze unbaked tartlets and bake directly from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes.
- Use a fork to poke pastry bases to prevent too much puffing.
- Let baked tartlets cool slightly to avoid burning the roof of your mouth.
- Sprinkle flaky salt or cracked pepper on top after baking for texture.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
45 minutes (includes caramelizing onions)
Total Time
1 hour
Nutritional Info (per tartlet, assuming 24 pieces)
Calories: 98
Protein: 3g
Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 0.5g
Sugar: 1.5g
Sodium: 120mg
FAQs
Can I make these tartlets ahead of time?
- Yes! You can caramelize the onions and prep the goat cheese filling up to 3 days ahead. Assemble and bake fresh just before serving.
Can I freeze them?
- You can freeze assembled unbaked tartlets or freeze leftovers. To reheat, bake at 375°F for 8–10 minutes.
What kind of goat cheese should I use?
- Use plain, soft goat cheese (chevre). Flavored versions also work well depending on your taste preference.
Can I make this without puff pastry?
- Yes, phyllo cups or pie crust cutouts work. Even biscuit dough pressed into muffin tins is an option.
How do I keep the bottoms from getting soggy?
- Bake tartlets on a hot baking sheet or poke pastry bottoms with a fork before baking to reduce puff and improve texture.
Conclusion
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tartlets are the ultimate savory appetizer for when you want to impress without the stress. With rich flavor, flaky texture, and a touch of elegance, they’re ideal for both casual gatherings and holiday feasts. Their adaptability, make-ahead friendly, freezer-ready, and easily customized, means you’ll come back to this recipe time and again. Serve them warm or at room temperature with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an appetizer that looks as good as it tastes. Perfect for holiday tables, cocktail parties, or anytime you need a small bite that packs big flavor.