Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tartlets
Highlighted under: Sweet Cravings Bakery
I love whipping up these Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tartlets for gatherings. The blend of sweet, caramelized onions and tangy goat cheese creates a perfect bite-sized treat that always impresses guests. They are surprisingly easy to make and pack a lot of flavor into each tartlet. When I serve them, they're often the first item to disappear. Whether it's a casual family dinner or a special occasion, these tartlets are my go-to appetizer, and they always receive rave reviews.
During one of my weekend cooking sessions, I decided to try making tartlets that would combine sweet and savory flavors. I chose caramelized onions and goat cheese, as I thought their contrasting profiles would work well together. The process of slowly caramelizing the onions brought out their natural sweetness, which paired beautifully with the creamy tang of the goat cheese. This method not only enhances the flavor but also adds a depth that elevates the entire dish.
While making the tartlet crust, I discovered that using cold butter is key to achieving that flaky texture. I was careful not to overwork the dough, as this can lead to a tough crust. When baked to golden perfection, the tartlets were crisp yet tender, making them a delightful vessel for the rich filling. Each bite was a harmonious blend of flavors, ensuring that I would always turn to this recipe for special occasions.
Why You Will Love These Tartlets
- The perfect balance of sweet caramelized onions and tangy goat cheese
- Flaky, buttery crust that melts in your mouth
- Versatile enough for any gathering or occasion
The Art of Caramelization
Caramelizing onions is a key technique in this recipe that creates a deep, rich flavor to complement the tangy goat cheese. Start by using medium heat and a heavy skillet, which ensures even cooking. Stir the onions frequently to prevent them from burning; they should be soft and turn a golden-brown color after about 20 minutes. If they stick to the pan, add a splash of water or additional olive oil to deglaze, incorporating the flavorful bits from the bottom.
Beyond flavor, the caramelization process enhances the onions' sweetness. If you prefer your onions to be even sweeter, consider adding a pinch of sugar during the cooking process. However, be careful not to overdo it, as the natural sweetness from the onions should shine through. Balance is key, so taste as you go and adjust your seasonings. This will ensure that each tartlet has that perfect blend of sweet and savory.
Perfecting the Tartlet Crust
The crust is the foundation of these tartlets, providing a flaky, buttery texture that complements the filling. Ensure your butter is cold; this helps create steam during baking, resulting in a light and airy crust. When mixing in the cold butter, use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to avoid warming it up, allowing the mixture to remain crumbly rather than pasty. If you struggle with your dough sticking, it might be too wet; sprinkle a little more flour as needed during rolling.
Another great tip is to pre-bake the tartlet shells for 5-7 minutes before adding your filling. This step can enhance the crust's crispness and prevent it from becoming soggy from the caramelized onions' moisture. Once pre-baked, let them cool for a few minutes before filling to maintain their structure. This ensures a delightful crunch with each bite, making the overall tartlet experience even more enjoyable.
Serving and Enjoying Your Tartlets
These Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tartlets can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them remarkably versatile for any gathering. If preparing ahead, store the baked tartlets in an airtight container for up to two days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispy texture before serving. This reheating method helps to refresh the flavors without compromising the tartlets' quality.
To elevate your tartlets further, consider adding a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of chili flakes before serving. The honey adds a delightful sweetness, while the hint of spice can create an exciting flavor contrast. These small adjustments can transform your tartlets from great to truly memorable, leaving your guests talking about them long after the gathering ends. Feel free to experiment with other toppings like chopped herbs or roasted nuts to customize your tartlet experience.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your tartlets:
Tartlet Crust
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, diced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons ice water
Filling
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
With these ingredients ready, you're all set to create delicious tartlets!
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your tartlets:
Prepare the Tartlet Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough begins to come together.
Caramelize the Onions
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sliced onions. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions become soft and caramelized, about 20 minutes. Stir in balsamic vinegar and season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Tartlets
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the chilled crust on a floured surface and cut into circles to fit a muffin tin. Press the circles into the muffin cups.
Bake and Serve
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crusts are golden brown. Let cool slightly before removing from the tin. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy your delicious Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tartlets!
Pro Tips
- To enhance the flavors, consider adding a touch of honey over the filling before baking or using different herbs like rosemary or oregano for a twist.
Dietary Considerations
If you're catering to gluten-free diets, you can easily substitute the all-purpose flour in the tartlet crust with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure that the blend you choose has a good combination of flours and starches to mimic the structure of wheat flour. Additionally, using a dairy-free goat cheese substitute can also accommodate lactose-intolerant guests without losing the essence of the dish.
For a lighter version, consider using a mixture of ricotta and goat cheese for the filling. This not only reduces the fat content but also adds a creamy texture that complements the sweetness of the caramelized onions beautifully. Adjust the seasoning since ricotta is milder than goat cheese; a pinch of salt will enhance the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Consider pairing these tartlets with a simple side salad for a charming appetizer presentation. A mix of arugula, fresh cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the rich tartlets. You could also serve them alongside a variety of dipping sauces, such as balsamic glaze or a herbed yogurt, to give guests options and enhance the eating experience.
Another fantastic idea is to serve these tartlets as part of a diverse appetizer platter. Incorporate other bite-sized delights like mini quiches, savory pastries, or seasonal vegetable crudités. This approach allows for a colorful and irresistible spread that showcases your culinary skills and keeps your guests coming back for more.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make the tartlet crust in advance?
Yes, the crust can be made a day ahead. Just keep it wrapped tightly in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it.
→ What can I substitute for goat cheese?
You can use feta cheese or cream cheese as a substitute if you prefer a different flavor profile.
→ How do I store leftover tartlets?
Store any leftover tartlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
→ Can I freeze the tartlets?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just assemble the tartlets and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag.
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tartlets
I love whipping up these Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tartlets for gatherings. The blend of sweet, caramelized onions and tangy goat cheese creates a perfect bite-sized treat that always impresses guests. They are surprisingly easy to make and pack a lot of flavor into each tartlet. When I serve them, they're often the first item to disappear. Whether it's a casual family dinner or a special occasion, these tartlets are my go-to appetizer, and they always receive rave reviews.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Sweet Cravings Bakery
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 tartlets
What You'll Need
Tartlet Crust
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, diced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons ice water
Filling
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough begins to come together. Shape it into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sliced onions. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions become soft and caramelized, about 20 minutes. Stir in balsamic vinegar and season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the chilled crust on a floured surface and cut into circles to fit a muffin tin. Press the circles into the muffin cups. Fill each tartlet with the caramelized onion mixture and sprinkle crumbled goat cheese and thyme on top.
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crusts are golden brown. Let cool slightly before removing from the tin. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Extra Tips
- To enhance the flavors, consider adding a touch of honey over the filling before baking or using different herbs like rosemary or oregano for a twist.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 4g