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Fig, Caramelized Onion, and Goat Cheese Tartlets

Elegant bite-sized tartlets featuring buttery puff pastry topped with sweet caramelized onions, tangy goat cheese, and fresh seasonal figs. A perfect sweet and savory appetizer for fall entertaining.

Fig, Caramelized Onion, and Goat Cheese Tartlets
Prep 20 min Cook 45 min Total 70 min Level Intermediate
Serves 8

Ingredients

Caramelized Onions

  • 2 medium yellow onions — thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves — chopped
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt — to taste

Tartlets

  • 1 package puff pastry — thawed (usually 2 sheets)
  • 8 medium fresh figs — stemmed and thinly sliced
  • 4 ounces goat cheese (chèvre) — crumbled or softened
  • 1 large egg — beaten with 1 tbsp water for egg wash
  • 2 tablespoons honey (optional) — for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and salt, tossing to coat.

    ~5 min
    Adding salt early helps draw out the moisture from the onions.
  2. Cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally, until they turn a deep golden brown and are very soft. This process should not be rushed.

    ~25 min
    If the onions start to dry out or burn, add a splash of water to the pan.
  3. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and fresh thyme. Cook for 1 more minute until the liquid evaporates. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

    ~2 min
    The balsamic adds a necessary tang to balance the sweetness of the figs.
  4. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.

    ~10 min
  5. Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into 12 equal squares (or rectangles) using a pizza cutter or sharp knife. Transfer them to the prepared baking sheets.

    ~5 min
    Keep the puff pastry cold until ready to bake for maximum flakiness.
  6. Using a paring knife, lightly score a smaller square about 1/4-inch inside the edge of each pastry square to create a border. Do not cut all the way through.

    ~3 min
    Scoring allows the edges to rise and puff up around the filling.
  7. Place about 1 teaspoon of goat cheese inside the scored border of each pastry. Top with a small spoonful of caramelized onions, and place 1-2 slices of fresh fig on top.

    ~5 min
  8. Brush the edges of the puff pastry with the egg wash.

    ~2 min
    Egg wash ensures a beautiful, shiny, golden crust.
  9. Bake until the pastry is puffed and golden brown, and the cheese is melted.

    ~15 min
    Rotate the baking sheets halfway through for even baking.
  10. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Drizzle lightly with honey and garnish with extra fresh thyme leaves before serving.

    ~5 min
    A drizzle of hot honey is a fantastic alternative if you like a spicy kick.
Nutrition
180
Calories
4
Protein (g)
16
Carbs (g)
11
Fat (g)
4
Sat. Fat (g)
1
Fiber (g)
4
Sugar (g)
150
Sodium (mg)
18
Cholesterol (mg)
Equipment
  • large skillet
  • baking sheet
  • parchment paper
  • pastry brush
  • pizza cutter or sharp knife
  • cutting board
Tips & Storage
  • If fresh figs are out of season, you can use dried figs reconstituted in warm water, or use a high-quality fig jam in place of the fresh fruit.
  • The caramelized onions can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
  • Ensure your puff pastry is completely thawed but still cold. Warm pastry will stick and won't puff up properly.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven or toaster oven for 5-7 minutes to restore the pastry's crispness. Do not microwave, or the pastry will become soggy.
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🤖 This recipe was created with AI assistance. If you spot a mistake or something that doesn't look right, please report it.