Sweet & Savory Apple Onion Tartlets
Ingredients
Tap the ingredients you have on hand
- 1 apple, thinly sliced≈ $0.20
- 1/2 onion, thinly sliced≈ $0.10
- 1 tbsp butter≈ $0.35
- 1 tbsp sugar≈ $0.10
- 1/4 tsp salt≈ $0.10
- 1/4 tsp black pepper≈ $0.10
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour≈ $0.50
- 1/4 cup cold butter (for pastry)≈ $0.35
- 2-3 tbsp ice water≈ $0.25
Prices are rough US grocery estimates per ingredient and may vary by store and season.
Instructions
- 1
First, make a simple pastry: In a bowl, combine 1/2 cup flour and 1/4 cup cold butter (cut into small pieces). Rub butter into flour with your fingers until crumbly. Add ice water 1 tbsp at a time, mixing until dough just comes together. Form into a disc, wrap, and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
- 2
In a pan, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onion and cook until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in 1 tbsp sugar, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- 3
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 4
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pastry dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out two circles (about 5-6 inches in diameter) or other desired shapes.
- 5
Place pastry circles on a baking sheet. Spread the caramelized onion mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border.
- 6
Arrange thinly sliced apple over the onion mixture.
- 7
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the apples are tender.
- 8
Serve warm.
About this recipe
Discover a delightful balance of flavors with these charming apple onion tartlets, a perfect small-batch treat for two. These French-inspired pastries blend the sweetness of tender apples with the mellow depth of caramelized onions, all nestled in a flaky, buttery crust. Ideal for a cozy brunch, a light lunch, or an elegant appetizer, this recipe offers a sophisticated yet simple baking project that comes together in under 40 minutes.
Crafted for home cooks seeking a unique savory-sweet experience, these individual tarts are surprisingly easy to make from scratch. Whether you're looking for apple recipes for fall, a quick weeknight dessert, or a savory pastry that impresses, this dish is a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of homemade baking without the fuss.
The story behind it
The tradition of sweet and savory combinations in French baking has roots in rustic country kitchens, where local produce like apples and onions were often combined in simple, yet elegant ways. Think of a tarte tatin, reimagined with a savory twist, or a humble galette elevated with seasonal ingredients. These individual tartlets draw inspiration from that heritage, offering a personal-sized rendition of classic French patisserie, adapted for the modern home cook who appreciates both convenience and gourmet flavor.
Chef's tips
- 1Ensure your butter for the pastry is very cold and cut into small cubes to achieve the flakiest crust.
- 2Slice the apples and onions as uniformly thin as possible for even cooking and tender texture.
- 3Sauté the onions gently until translucent before adding apples to allow their sweetness to develop fully.
- 4Lightly prick the bottom of your pastry crusts with a fork before filling to prevent them from puffing up excessively.
- 5Bake tartlets until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender, keeping an eye on them due to varying oven temperatures.
Ways to make it your own
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a celiac-friendly option.
Add a pinch of fresh thyme or rosemary to the apple and onion mixture for an aromatic depth.
Sprinkle a tablespoon of grated Gruyère or sharp white cheddar over the filling before baking for extra savoriness.
Swap the apple for a firm pear and the onion for shallots to create a milder, equally sophisticated tartlet.
Frequently asked
Can I make the pastry dough ahead of time for these tartlets?+
Yes, you can prepare the pastry dough up to two days in advance and store it, tightly wrapped, in the refrigerator. Just let it come to room temperature slightly before rolling.
What kind of apple is best for a sweet and savory tartlet?+
Firm, slightly tart apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith work wonderfully as they hold their shape during baking and offer a nice counterpoint to the onion's sweetness.
Why is cold butter important for pie crust?+
Cold butter creates pockets of steam in the oven, which results in a flaky, tender crust rather than a tough or dense one.
How do I prevent my tartlet crust from getting soggy?+
Sautéing the apple and onion mixture thoroughly to remove excess moisture and lightly pricking the bottom of the crust before filling can help prevent a soggy bottom.
Is it possible to scale this recipe for more servings?+
Yes, you can easily double or triple the ingredients for both the filling and the pastry to make more individual tartlets for a larger gathering.