Deliciously Easy Caramelized Onion Tartlets Recipe

Indulge in the rich, savory flavors of homemade Caramelized Onion Tartlets, a delightful appetizer or snack that is sure to impress your guests! Originating from French cuisine, this dish combines the sweetness of slow-cooked onions with creamy cheese, all encased in a buttery, flaky pastry. Perfect for entertaining, these little tarts offer a unique flavor profile that pairs perfectly with a crisp salad or a glass of wine. In this easy Caramelized Onion Tartlets recipe, we’ll guide you step-by-step through making these delectable treats from scratch, ensuring that even novice cooks can achieve professional results. Whether you’re seeking a vegan option or simply want to impress at your next gathering, these homemade tartlets are a must-try!

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Serving Size: 12 tartlets

Ingredients for Caramelized Onion Tartlets

For the crust:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or use a gluten-free blend for gluten-free tartlets)
½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed (substitute coconut oil for a vegan option)
1 ½ tsp salt
2-4 tbsp ice water

For the filling:

3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp sugar (to aid in caramelization)
½ cup heavy cream (or use almond milk for a dairy-free alternative)
2 large eggs
1 cup grated Gruyère cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Equipment List

Mixing bowl
Food processor (optional, for the crust)
Rolling pin
9-inch tart pan with removable bottom
Skillet
Whisk
Sharp knife and cutting board
Parchment paper
Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the tartlet crust: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of flour and 1 ½ tsp of salt. Cut in ½ cup of chilled, cubed unsalted butter using your fingertips or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. If using a food processor, pulse until the same texture is achieved.
Add 2 tablespoons of ice water and mix until the dough comes together. If it feels too dry, add more water, one tablespoon at a time, until fully incorporated.
Chill the dough: Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough will make it easier to roll out later.
Caramelize the onions: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of sugar. Stir occasionally, allowing the onions to cook slowly for 20-25 minutes, until they are soft and golden brown. This process enhances their natural sweetness.
Once caramelized, season the onions with salt and pepper, then remove from heat and let them cool slightly.
Prepare the filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together ½ cup of heavy cream, 2 large eggs, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir in the grated Gruyère cheese (or nutritional yeast, if making a vegan version) until well combined.
Assemble the tartlets: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled pastry dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thick. Cut out circles large enough to line the tart pan, about 4 inches in diameter. Carefully place the circles into the pan, pressing gently into the corners.
Pierce the bottom of each tart shell with a fork to allow steam to escape. Fill each tartlet shell with the caramelized onions and pour the egg-cream mixture over the top, filling until just full.
Bake: Place the tartlets in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the filling is set. You’ll know they are done when you lightly touch the center and it springs back.
Cool and serve: Once baked, remove the tartlets from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before removing them from the pan. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy the savory aroma and golden hue!

Special Notes

Storing: Leftover tartlets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes.
Make ahead: The tartlet crust can be made a day in advance. Just refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it.
Troubleshooting: If the filling is too watery, make sure the onions are well-drained before adding them to the tart shells. You can also consider increasing the baking time slightly.

Variations and Customizations

Vegan Option: Replace high-fat dairy ingredients with alternatives such as coconut cream and flaxseed egg replacements. Use nutritional yeast to achieve a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary for added depth. You can also incorporate sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the filling for added vegetables.

Nutritional Information

While calculations can vary based on specific ingredient brands used and portion sizes, here’s an estimated breakdown per tartlet:

Calories: 175
Protein: 4g
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 1g

Engaging Visual Details

As you prepare your Caramelized Onion Tartlets, imagine the rich golden hue of the caramelized onions, slowly transforming into a sweet, savory filling as they cook. When you open the oven, the aroma of buttery pastry mingling with the scent of cheese will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to the table. Each tartlet should have a perfectly golden crust, holding a creamy, rich filling, topped with a beautifully caramelized layer of onions that glistens invitingly. Visuals showcasing each step from the raw ingredients to the final plated dish would enhance the reader’s experience!

Conclusion

Now that you have the complete guide to creating your own Caramelized Onion Tartlets, why not gather your ingredients and bring this mouthwatering dish to life in your kitchen? These tartlets will elevate any occasion or be perfect as a cozy night in. Share your creations by tagging us on social media with MyDeliciousDish or leave a comment below if you’ve tried this recipe! Enjoy every bite and the praise from your friends and family!