Keep frozen puff pastry handy in your freezer for effortless baking. It has the power to turn simple ingredients into sensational dishes. This recipe pairs freezer-friendly puff pastry with humble onions to create a stunning holiday appetizer. These mini delights are perfect finger foods for your Thanksgiving feast or any holiday gathering. They also make a delightful lunch when paired with a fresh salad. You’ll be surprised at how simple they are to whip up and how much your guests will love them.
Before you begin, remember to thaw your puff pastry for about 4 hours in the refrigerator. Caramelizing onions takes time and attention, but the rich onion flavor is worth it. If your onions start to stick or burn, add a splash of water to loosen them and slow down the cooking process. The water will evaporate, leaving behind perfectly caramelized onions. A dash of balsamic vinegar added at the end adds a lovely touch of acidity to balance the flavors.
Once the onions cool, spoon a bit onto each puff pastry square along with some crumbled goat cheese for creaminess and tang. Finish with a drizzle of honey for that irresistible sweet and salty contrast. This is the perfect opportunity to use your favorite high-quality honey.
Caramelized Onion & Goat Cheese Bites
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 4 medium yellow onions thinly sliced
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves plus extra for garnish
- All-purpose flour for dusting
- 2 sheets frozen puff pastry from a 17.3-ounce package, thawed in the refrigerator
- 1 large egg beaten
- 4 ounces goat cheese crumbled
- 2 teaspoons honey
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions, salt, and pepper, and cook until deeply caramelized, about 35 minutes. Stir in balsamic vinegar and thyme. Let cool.
- Preheat oven to 375°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, cut each puff pastry sheet into 9 (3-inch by 3-inch) squares. Transfer squares to the prepared baking sheets.
- Top each square with caramelized onions, leaving a small border. Brush the edges with beaten egg. Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese over the onions.
- Bake tarts until puffed and golden brown, about 25 to 28 minutes. Drizzle honey over each tart and garnish with fresh thyme leaves and pepper. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!