Introduction
Puff Pastry Tartlets with Camembert & Red Onion Jam are a refined yet simple appetizer that brings together buttery pastry, creamy cheese, and tangy sweetness in every bite. Each tartlet features a golden, flaky base layered with smooth Camembert and rich caramelized onion jam. The balance of textures crisp pastry, velvety cheese, and sticky jam makes this recipe an instant favorite for entertaining. Using ready-made puff pastry saves time while still giving a bakery-quality finish, and the onion jam can be prepared days ahead, making assembly effortless. This dish fits perfectly into both casual gatherings and elegant dinner parties, offering the kind of flavor that feels indulgent without being complicated. It’s a combination of French-inspired comfort and modern convenience that delivers every time.
The Basics of the Recipe
This recipe draws inspiration from classic French appetizers where creamy cheese meets savory-sweet condiments. The caramelized red onion jam creates a depth of flavor that complements the buttery puff pastry and the rich Camembert. Each bite delivers sweetness, tang, and creaminess, while the puff pastry adds a light, flaky crunch. These tartlets are ideal for holidays, brunches, or cocktail hours easy to prepare, visually stunning, and universally loved. The jam can be made ahead, and the tartlets bake in less than 20 minutes. Whether served warm straight from the oven or at room temperature, they always impress.
Quick Recipe Snapshot
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Category: Appetizer
Cuisine: French-Inspired
Detailed Ingredients List
Main Ingredients:
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
4 oz Camembert cheese, cut into small slices
1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
For the Red Onion Jam:
2 medium red onions, thinly sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
2 tbsp brown sugar
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
Pinch of salt
Notes and Substitutions: Brie can replace Camembert for a milder taste. Onion jam can be made up to three days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Use red wine instead of balsamic for a richer flavor or drizzle honey over the baked tartlets for extra sweetness. Vegan puff pastry and cheese alternatives can make this recipe dairy-free.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and salt, cooking for 10–12 minutes until softened. Add brown sugar and cook for another 5 minutes until caramelized. Stir in balsamic vinegar and thyme, then simmer for 5–7 minutes until thick and jam-like. Set aside to cool.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out puff pastry and cut into 12 equal squares (3 inches each). Score a small border around each square, being careful not to cut through. Transfer to the baking sheet.
- Brush edges lightly with beaten egg. Add 1 teaspoon of onion jam to the center of each square and top with a small slice of Camembert.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
- Remove from oven and cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with thyme if desired and serve warm or at room temperature.
Pro Tips, Substitutions & Variations
Keep puff pastry cold until baking to ensure maximum flakiness. Avoid overfilling with jam to prevent soggy pastry. Score edges evenly for clean, defined borders. Substitute Camembert with Brie, goat cheese, or blue cheese for different flavor profiles. Swap red onions with shallots for a milder sweetness. For added flair, top with sliced pear or apple under the cheese or sprinkle chopped walnuts on top before baking. For a festive touch, replace onion jam with cranberry chutney.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Tips
The onion jam can be made three days ahead and stored refrigerated. Assemble tartlets up to four hours before baking and keep chilled. Bake just before serving for crisp texture. Store leftovers in a single layer in an airtight container for up to two days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 6–8 minutes until warm and crisp. Avoid microwaving as it softens the pastry.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Serve on a wooden board with fresh herbs for an elegant presentation. Pair with arugula salad drizzled with balsamic glaze for a light meal. These tartlets complement cured meats, grapes, and figs beautifully on a charcuterie board. Serve alongside sparkling water, apple cider, or white grape juice for balance. For variety, include other pastries like Spinach Puffs or Tomato Tartlets for a colorful appetizer spread.
Nutritional Information
Per Tartlet: Calories 170, Protein 5 g, Carbohydrates 14 g, Sugars 4 g, Fat 10 g, Saturated Fat 5 g, Fiber 1 g, Cholesterol 20 mg, Sodium 190 mg. To lighten the recipe, use reduced-fat puff pastry or halve the cheese portion. Cook onions in olive oil only instead of butter to reduce calories.
FAQ Section
Can I use store-bought onion jam? Yes. Warm it slightly before spreading to make it easier to handle.
Can I make these in advance? Assemble and refrigerate unbaked tartlets up to four hours ahead and bake just before serving.
Can I freeze them? Yes, freeze unbaked tartlets on a tray and bake directly from frozen, adding 3–4 minutes to the time.
Can I substitute Brie for Camembert? Yes, Brie has a similar texture and milder flavor.
How do I prevent soggy bottoms? Avoid overfilling with jam and bake on parchment on the middle rack. Keep pastry chilled until baking.
Closing Section
Puff Pastry Tartlets with Camembert & Red Onion Jam are an effortless yet elegant appetizer that combines rich, buttery pastry with creamy cheese and sweet, tangy jam. Perfect for entertaining, these tartlets deliver restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. They’re versatile enough for holidays, brunches, or special dinners and pair beautifully with other small bites or a simple salad. Once you try them, they’ll become your go-to for impressive but easy appetizers. Share your results on Facebook or Pinterest and tag @RecipesList00. For more refined yet simple recipes, try Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry & Pecans, Cranberry Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Bites, or Roasted Carrots with Maple Ricotta & Spiced Butter.