Savory Caramelized Onion and Brie Tart

Name: Savory Caramelized Onion and Brie Tart
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed; 2 large onions, thinly sliced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 8 ounces Brie cheese, sliced; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Family Baking Recipes

I absolutely love serving this Savory Caramelized Onion and Brie Tart at gatherings. The combination of sweet, caramelized onions and creamy Brie cheese tucked into a flaky pastry yields an irresistible appetizer. Each slice is a perfect balance of flavors that leave everyone craving more. I often accompany it with a simple salad to enhance the flavors even further. It’s versatile enough to enjoy at a casual brunch, elegant evening, or festive occasion. Trust me, this tart is bound to impress and will soon become your go-to dish.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-08T15:11:29.933Z

When I first made this Savory Caramelized Onion and Brie Tart, I was amazed at how easy it was to create such a gourmet dish. The key is to patiently caramelize the onions until they become sweet and golden, which enhances their flavor immensely. I remember the delightful aroma that filled my kitchen as they cooked.

Another tip that I learned is to let the tart cool slightly before slicing. This helps the filling set and ensures a perfect slice every time. Pair it with a glass of white wine, and you have a charming dish that feels both luxurious and comforting.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The rich contrast of sweet caramelized onions with creamy Brie cheese
A buttery, flaky crust that pairs perfectly with the filling
Easy to make, yet impressive enough for any occasion

      

Understanding the Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Savory Caramelized Onion and Brie Tart plays a pivotal role in crafting a delicious final product. The puff pastry serves as the foundation, providing a light and flaky texture that contrasts nicely with the soft Brie and the rich onions. Opting for high-quality Brie is essential, as it melts beautifully and adds a creamy depth of flavor. For the onions, large, sweet varieties such as Vidalia or Walla Walla contribute to caramelization, enhancing the savory and sweet profile of the tart.

Incorporating fresh thyme is not just for decoration; it elevates the tart with an earthy aroma that complements the sweetness of the onions. If thyme isn’t available, you can substitute with rosemary or oregano, but be mindful of the intensity and adjust accordingly. Seasoning with salt and pepper while caramelizing is crucial—it not only brings out their natural sweetness but also adds a savory depth that balances the richness of the cheese.

Tips for the Perfect Caramelization

Perfectly caramelizing onions requires patience and attention. Start by heating the olive oil and butter together until shimmering without letting it smoke. Then, add the sliced onions, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cook them over medium heat, stirring often, for approximately 15-20 minutes, until they are a deep golden brown and have developed a sweet, rich flavor. If they begin to stick or brown too quickly, reduce the heat to low to prevent burning.

If you'd like to speed up the caramelization process without sacrificing taste, you can sprinkle a teaspoon of sugar over the onions after about 10 minutes of cooking. This enhances the caramelization and can slightly shorten cooking time. Just watch carefully and adjust your stirring frequency to avoid burning.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

This tart can be served warm or at room temperature, making it an ideal choice for entertaining. For a delightful serving suggestion, pair the tart with a refreshing mixed greens salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing complements the rich flavors and adds brightness to the dish.

If you happen to have leftovers, store the tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and flaky again. Freezing is also an option; just be sure to wrap the cooled tart tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to a month, and can be reheated directly from frozen, though the texture may be slightly less crisp.

Ingredients

For the Tart

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
2 large onions, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
8 ounces Brie cheese, sliced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

Caramelize the Onions

Heat the olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and caramelized.

Prepare the Puff Pastry

While the onions are cooking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the puff pastry onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and trim the edges to create a border.

Assemble the Tart

Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the puff pastry, leaving the edges clear. Layer the Brie slices on top of the onions and sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves. Brush the edges of the pastry with beaten egg.

Bake the Tart

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden and puffed. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar while caramelizing the onions.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to put your own spin on the tart. Goat cheese, for instance, offers a tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the onions, while sharp cheddar can add a nice contrast. You might also consider adding spinach or arugula for a pop of color and a slight peppery bite. Simply sauté a handful in the pan with the onions before assembling the tart.

If you're looking for gluten-free options, consider using a gluten-free puff pastry, widely available in supermarkets. Just make sure to check the baking instructions, as gluten-free dough may require slightly different handling techniques. You can also explore alternative toppings, such as caramelized mushrooms or roasted red peppers, for a unique twist that suits your preferences.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your puff pastry doesn’t rise as expected, check that the dough was cold before baking. Puff pastry relies on steam created from the layers to puff up. If it becomes warm or melts before reaching the oven, the texture will suffer. Ensure that the pastry is fully thawed but still cold when you roll it out and assemble the tart.

In case the edges of the tart brown too quickly, which can happen if your oven runs hot, shield them with strips of aluminum foil halfway through the baking process. This method permits the center to cook thoroughly while protecting the delicate pastry edges from burning.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While Brie adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with goat cheese, feta, or any cheese that melts well.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to get the crust crispy again.

→ Can this tart be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tart up to the baking step and refrigerate it for a day before baking.

→ Is it possible to freeze the tart?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled, unbaked tart for up to a month. When ready to eat, bake it straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.