How to Make Savory Caramelized Onion and Brie Tartlets in Simple Steps
There’s something special about bite-sized treats that pack tons of flavor. Savory caramelized onion and brie tartlets are the perfect example! With their golden, flaky crust, rich, melted brie cheese, and sweet caramelized onions, these tartlets are a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party, having guests over, or simply treating yourself, these delicious bites are easy to make and sure to impress.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through a simple recipe to create this culinary delight. No fancy skills required—just a love for delicious food and a bit of time in the kitchen!
What You’ll Need
Before we get started, gather the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought is perfect and super easy!)
- 2 large onions, sliced thin
- 2 tablespoons butter (you can also use olive oil if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 4 ounces brie cheese, cut into small pieces
- Fresh thyme (optional, for garnish and added flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Tools
- A small muffin tin (to hold the tartlets)
- Rolling pin (to flatten the puff pastry, if needed)
- Knife and cutting board
- Small frying pan
- Brush for egg wash
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Puff Pastry
Puff pastry is the magic behind the crisp and flaky tartlet cups. If you’re using store-bought puff pastry (recommended for simplicity), thaw it in the fridge ahead of time according to the package instructions. Once thawed, roll it out gently with a rolling pin to even out the surface.
Using a cookie cutter or a glass, cut out small circles from the puff pastry. These circles should be slightly larger than the compartments in your muffin tin, as you’ll need to shape them into little cups.
Grease the muffin tin lightly and press each puff pastry circle into a compartment, shaping it to cover the base and sides. Set aside while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Caramelized Onions
The key to mouthwatering caramelized onions is time and patience. Caramelizing onions slowly brings out their natural sweetness and takes them to the next level.
- Heat a frying pan over low-medium heat and add the butter (or olive oil).
- Once the butter melts, toss in the thinly sliced onions. Stir gently to ensure the onions are evenly coated.
- Cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally. After about 10–15 minutes, they’ll start turning golden and soft.
- Add the sugar (optional) and cook for another 5 minutes. This step adds extra sweetness, which pairs beautifully with the brie. Sprinkle in a pinch of salt and pepper for added flavor.
- Remove the onions from the heat once they’re rich brown and caramelized. Let them cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Tartlets
Now comes the fun part—assembling the tartlets! Start by spooning a small amount of caramelized onion into each puff pastry cup in the muffin tin. Aim for just enough to fill half the cup.
Next, place a small piece of brie cheese on top of the onions. Don’t worry about it being perfect—brie melts beautifully as it bakes, creating a creamy layer.
If you like herbs, add a few leaves of fresh thyme on top. Thyme complements the flavor of onions and brie wonderfully.
Step 4: Add the Egg Wash
Egg wash is the secret to achieving a golden and crisp crust. Use a brush to lightly coat the edges of the puff pastry with beaten egg. This will give the tartlets a professional, shiny finish once baked.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the assembled tartlets into the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden and flaky.
Keep an eye on them as they bake—you don’t want to overcook the pastry or burn the brie! The cheese should melt beautifully, and the onions will soften even more.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, let the tartlets cool slightly before removing them from the muffin tin. They should pop out easily.
Arrange the tartlets on a serving platter and garnish with a touch of thyme or cracked black pepper for presentation. Serve warm and watch them disappear—these tartlets are irresistible!
Tips for Success
- Customize Ingredients: Feel free to experiment! Add a dab of balsamic glaze or use other cheeses, like goat cheese or blue cheese, if preferred.
- Prep Ahead: You can caramelize the onions a day before to save time on the day of baking.
- Serve Fresh: Enjoy these tartlets freshly baked for the best flavor and texture. If you have leftovers, reheat them gently in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Conclusion
Caramelized onion and brie tartlets may sound fancy, but they’re surprisingly simple to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of effort, these delicious bites can transform any table into a feast. Every element—the flaky pastry, creamy brie, and sweet onions—comes together to create an unforgettable treat.
So, whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or simply indulging your inner foodie, don’t hesitate to try this recipe. Your taste buds will thank you! Happy cooking!
