Description

These Caramelized Onion and Apple Tartlets combine the sweetness of slowly caramelized onions with the natural tartness of apples, all nestled on a crisp, buttery puff pastry base. They’re elegant yet simple, making them perfect for festive gatherings, dinner parties, or cozy nights in. Each bite delivers a balance of flavors — sweet, savory, and subtly herbal — that will make these tartlets a standout dish on any table.

Ingredients

Scale

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
2 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Gala), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: crumbled goat cheese or feta
Optional: fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften.
Reduce heat to medium-low and continue cooking for 15–20 minutes until onions are golden brown. Sprinkle with brown sugar and a pinch of salt, stirring to help caramelize evenly.
Add the apple slices and thyme to the pan. Cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the apples are tender but not mushy. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
Unroll the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut into 9–12 equal squares or circles. Transfer the pastry pieces to the prepared baking sheet.
Spoon the caramelized onion and apple mixture onto the center of each pastry, leaving a small border around the edges. Add a sprinkle of cheese if using.
Brush the pastry edges lightly with the beaten egg.
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the tartlets are puffed and golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if desired.

Notes

Choose firm apple varieties like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji for the best results.
The caramelized onion and apple mixture can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
Keep the puff pastry cold before baking for maximum flakiness.
These tartlets are delicious served warm or at room temperature, making them ideal for entertaining.
To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes