Irresistible Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tarts – Savory, Elegant & Easy Appetizer Recipe
These Irresistible Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tarts are the perfect blend of sweet and savory! Flaky puff pastry is topped with creamy goat cheese and rich caramelized onions, then baked until golden and crisp. Ideal for brunch, cocktail parties, or holiday gatherings, these tarts are easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a gourmet touch!
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 45 minutes mins
Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins
Course Appetizer, Brunch, Light Dinner
Cuisine European, French-inspired
Servings 6 servings (or 12–16 mini tartlets)
Calories 320 kcal
Skillet
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Knife and cutting board
Spoon or spatula
Oven
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 4 oz soft goat cheese (chèvre)
- Salt to taste
- Optional: fresh thyme, balsamic glaze, egg wash
Caramelize onions: Cook sliced onions in butter/oil over low heat for 40–45 minutes, stirring occasionally until deep golden and jammy. Add a pinch of salt and optional splash of balsamic vinegar.
Prepare pastry: Roll out puff pastry on parchment-lined baking sheet. Score a ½-inch border around the edges with a knife (don’t cut through). Dock the center with a fork.
Layer toppings: Spread caramelized onions evenly over the pastry. Crumble goat cheese on top.
Bake: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until pastry is golden and bubbling.
Cool slightly: Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
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Use room temperature goat cheese for easier crumbling.
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Don’t overcrowd the tart—less is more for crisp pastry.
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Let puff pastry rest before baking to improve rise.
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Brush edges with egg wash for a golden finish.
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Add fresh herbs after baking for brightness.
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Freeze unbaked tart for future use—bake directly from frozen with extra time.
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Reheat leftovers in the oven to preserve flakiness.
Keyword caramelized onions, elegant appetizer, goat cheese, puff pastry, Savory tart, vegetarian