Caramelized Onion and Brie Puff Pastry Tarts hold a special place in my heart. My story begins in my grandmother’s autumn kitchen, where the scent of buttery pastry and slowly cooked onions meant the seasons were changing. We didn’t need anything fancy just good, honest ingredients and a little time. These tarts are a reflection of those days. Sweet, golden onions, creamy Brie, and flaky pastry all come together in one warm, rustic bite that’s perfect for a crisp fall evening. Now, I share this reader-favorite recipe from my kitchen to yours, hoping it brings that same comfort and connection to your table.
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Whether you’re prepping a simple appetizer, planning a holiday gathering, or just craving something savory and seasonal, these tarts are easy to make, hard to resist, and absolutely beautiful on a plate.
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Caramelized Onion and Brie Puff Pastry Tarts
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6–9 tarts
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sweet caramelized onions, creamy Brie, and flaky golden puff pastry come together in these comforting and elegant fall tarts perfect for gatherings, appetizers, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried)
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
- 150g Brie cheese, cut into thin slices
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and stir to coat. Cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring often, until onions are deep golden brown. Add brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook 5 more minutes until jammy. Let cool slightly.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). On a lightly floured surface, unroll puff pastry and cut into 6 rectangles or 9 squares. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet. Score a ½-inch border around each piece without cutting through.
- Spoon a tablespoon of caramelized onions inside each border. Top with Brie slices. Brush edges with beaten egg.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes or until puffed and golden. Cool for 5 minutes and serve warm.
Notes
Caramelize onions slowly over medium-low heat for best flavor. Keep puff pastry chilled until assembly to ensure a crisp finish. These can be cut into smaller portions for party-friendly bites.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s keep things simple but full of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful Caramelized Onion and Brie Puff Pastry Tarts:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried)
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
- 150g Brie cheese, cut into thin slices
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Want to serve alongside something seasonal? Pair these with a Pumpkin Soup served in Mini Pumpkins or finish your fall spread with Brown Sugar Pumpkin Loaf.

Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and stir to coat. Cook slowly for about 25–30 minutes, stirring often, until the onions turn deep golden brown. Add brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook another 5 minutes until jammy. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Prep the Puff Pastry
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Unroll your puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut into 6 rectangles or 9 squares. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Use a knife to score a ½-inch border around each piece, being careful not to cut all the way through.
Step 3: Assemble the Tarts
Spoon a tablespoon of caramelized onion inside each scored border. Top with a slice or two of Brie cheese. Brush the outer edges with beaten egg for that beautiful golden finish.
Step 4: Bake and Serve
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving warm.
If you’re a fan of quick Brie appetizers, don’t miss Mini Brie Bites with Fig and Rosemary for another elegant snack idea.
Tips for Success
- Low and Slow for Onions: Don’t rush the caramelization process. Keep heat medium-low and stir often. It’s worth every minute.
- Cold Puff Pastry is Key: Keep the pastry chilled until just before baking. Warm dough can become soggy or lose its puff.
- Customize the Shape: Circles or heart shapes work well if you’re feeling festive. Just keep the edges scored.
Looking for more fall baking ideas? Try Sweet Sourdough Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon and Pecans to complete your autumn table.
Delicious Variations
These Caramelized Onion and Brie Puff Pastry Tarts are versatile! Here are a few easy ways to switch them up:
Gluten-Free Option
Use gluten-free puff pastry sheets (available in most grocery stores). Everything else stays the same, but check that your Brie is labeled gluten-free.
Add a Streusel Topping
For a sweet-savory twist, mix 2 tbsp flour, 1 tbsp brown sugar, and 1 tbsp cold butter until crumbly. Sprinkle over the Brie before baking for a crisp, nutty finish.
Add Fresh Fruit
A few thin slices of pear or apple tucked under the Brie complement the onion’s sweetness beautifully.
Want more Brie-based creations? Don’t skip our Skillet Brie with Fig Chutney or the elegant Baked Brie en Croûte with Fig Jam.

Storage and Reheating Tips
- Fridge: Store cooled tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze baked and cooled tarts in a single layer. Reheat straight from frozen in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes.
- Reheating: Avoid microwaving use the oven or toaster oven for best texture.
Hosting a fall brunch? Try serving these with Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins for a full spread.
Conclusion
Caramelized Onion and Brie Puff Pastry Tarts are more than just a treat they’re a comforting taste of the season. Whether you’re a confident home cook or just starting out, this recipe brings that warm, rustic magic to your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum flavor. And just like the simple joy of cooking in my grandmother’s kitchen, these tarts prove that cozy food doesn’t have to be complicated.
How far in advance can I make these?
You can assemble the tarts (minus the egg wash) and refrigerate them up to 1 day ahead. Brush with egg and bake fresh.
Can I use red onions instead?
Absolutely. Red onions bring a sweeter, deeper flavor and beautiful color contrast.
What if I don’t have Brie?
Try Camembert, goat cheese, or even shredded mozzarella for a different twist.
Can I make these mini for a party?
Yes! Cut the pastry smaller and bake slightly less time around 14–16 minutes. They’re perfect as finger food.