Name: Caramelized Onion, Apple & Cheddar Tart
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pre-made pie crust (9-inch); 2 medium sweet onions (e.g., Vidalia), sliced; 2 Granny Smith apples, thinly sliced; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme); Salt and pepper to taste

Print Recipe

When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For me, it’s the rich aroma of caramelized onions mingling with the crispness of apples and the sharp bite of cheddar cheese. The moment you cut into a warm Caramelized Onion, Apple & Cheddar Tart, the flaky crust gives way to a melty filling that dances on your taste buds, creating an experience that’s nothing short of magical. creamy avocado egg salad

Ah, nostalgia strikes again! Picture this: a rainy Sunday afternoon spent in the kitchen with my grandmother. She would whip up this tart while sharing stories about her childhood. The combination of sweet and savory flavors always made it a family favorite during cozy gatherings. savory mini quiches Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a delicious snack while binge-watching your favorite series, this tart is sure to impress.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Caramelized Onion, Apple & Cheddar Tart is easy to prepare and perfect for both casual and special occasions
The sweet and savory flavor profile will tantalize your taste buds
Its golden-brown crust and colorful filling make it visually stunning on any table
Versatile enough for brunch or as an appetizer at dinner parties

Every time I serve this tart, my friends rave about it, and I can’t help but feel like a culinary genius!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: delicious Italian chicken panini.

- Pie Crust: A pre-made crust saves time, but homemade adds love and flakiness.
- Onions: Use sweet onions like Vidalia for a perfect balance of flavors.
- Apples: Granny Smith apples lend a lovely tartness that complements the sweetness of the onions.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Opt for high-quality cheddar; it adds depth and richness to every bite.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for sautéing the onions; it lets the natural flavors shine through.
- Sugar: A sprinkle of sugar helps caramelize the onions beautifully without overpowering them.
- Thyme: Fresh thyme elevates the tart with its aromatic essence; dried works in a pinch too!
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Oven and Pie Crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out your pie crust into a 9-inch tart pan, pressing firmly into the edges.

Sauté Those Onions: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat in a skillet. Add sliced onions and cook until they turn translucent and start caramelizing, stirring occasionally.

Add Sugar and Thyme: Sprinkle sugar over the onions after about 10 minutes. Toss in fresh thyme leaves for an aromatic kick as they continue cooking until golden brown.

Mix Apples and Cheese: In a bowl, combine thinly sliced apples with shredded cheddar cheese. Toss gently so every slice gets coated with cheesy goodness. For more inspiration, check out this baked apples with feta recipe.

Fill Your Tart Shell: Spread the caramelized onion mixture evenly across the pie crust first. Layer apple slices on top before generously sprinkling more cheddar cheese over everything.

Bake It Up!: Place your tart in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown on top and bubbly inside. You’ll know it’s ready when you can hardly resist taking a peek!

Enjoy this delightful Caramelized Onion, Apple & Cheddar Tart with friends or all by yourself—no judgment here! colorful spring orzo salad.

You Must Know

Caramelized onions bring a rich sweetness to the tart, enhancing every bite
Always take your time with caramelizing; rushing it results in less flavor
A touch of apple balances the savory richness of cheddar, creating a perfect harmony of tastes

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by caramelizing the onions until golden and sweet, then layer them on puff pastry with sliced apples and cheddar cheese for a crispy delight.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out apples for pears or add fresh herbs like thyme for an aromatic twist that elevates the dish even further.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly caramelized onions, cook them low and slow; patience is key!
Avoid overcrowding your pan to ensure they brown evenly
Don’t skip adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to brighten flavors and enhance sweetness

When I first made this tart for friends, their eyes lit up as they took their first bites. It turned into a staple at my gatherings, always leaving everyone asking for seconds!

FAQs

FAQ

What type of apples work best in a caramelized onion, apple & cheddar tart?

For more inspiration, check out this cinnamon pear crumble recipe.

For this tart, choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Their tartness contrasts beautifully with the sweet caramelized onions and rich cheddar cheese, creating an excellent flavor balance.

Can I prepare the caramelized onion ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can caramelize your onions a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Just reheat before assembling your tart to ensure they’re warm and flavorful when baked.

How do I keep the puff pastry from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, bake the tart on a preheated baking sheet and consider brushing the pastry with egg wash before adding toppings. This creates a barrier that keeps moisture away from the crust.