Caramelized Onion, Apple & Cheddar Tart Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, you have to try this Caramelized Onion, Apple & Cheddar Tart Recipe. It brings together the deep richness of slowly caramelized onions with the crisp brightness of fresh apples, all melted under a blanket of sharp, aged cheddar cheese. It’s a stunning tart that’s as charming as it is delicious—ideal for cozy dinners, brunches with friends, or whenever you want to impress with a home-baked treat that feels both elegant and comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential for creating layers of flavor that define this tart. Each one plays a key role in delivering a crispy crust, a sweet and savory filling, and that creamy, melty finish that makes this dish unforgettable.

• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base of the buttery tart crust, providing structure and a tender crumb.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (chilled, cubed): Adds richness and flakiness to the dough when cut in cold.
• 1/4 cup cold water: Helps bring the dough together without making it tough.
• 2 medium yellow onions (sliced): The star ingredient for caramelization, adding sweetness and depth.
• 1 medium Granny Smith apple (diced): Offers a tart contrast and crisp texture.
• 1 cup shredded aged cheddar cheese: Brings sharpness and creamy melting goodness.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the filling and give it body and richness.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds silkiness to the filling and balances flavors.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances and rounds out all the natural flavors in the tart.

How to Make Caramelized Onion, Apple & Cheddar Tart Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Begin by mixing the all-purpose flour with a pinch of salt in a bowl. Cut in the chilled, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture looks crumbly with pea-sized bits of butter. Gradually add the cold water, a tablespoon at a time, stirring gently until the dough just holds together. This dough promises a flaky yet sturdy crust, perfect for holding the luscious filling without sogginess.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Once formed, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This chilling phase is crucial—it lets the gluten relax and the butter firm up, ensuring the crust will bake up beautifully crisp and tender.

Step 3: Caramelize Onions

While the dough chills, melt a knob of butter in a skillet over medium heat and add the sliced yellow onions. Stir often as the onions cook slowly to develop a deep golden brown color and mouthwatering sweetness. This caramelization takes about 20 minutes but is worth every second, as it builds the rich flavor base essential to this Caramelized Onion, Apple & Cheddar Tart Recipe.

Step 4: Add Apples

Next, stir in the diced Granny Smith apples to the caramelized onions. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for another 5 minutes until the apples soften slightly but still retain a bit of crunch to contrast the tender onions. This step brings that lovely balance of sweet and tangy brightness to the filling.

Step 5: Assemble the Tart

Take the chilled dough and roll it out neatly to fit your tart pan, pressing down evenly to cover the bottom and sides. Pour the warm onion-apple filling into the crust, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded aged cheddar cheese generously on top—the cheddar will melt and bubble as it bakes, creating a rich, golden topping that’s simply irresistible.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the tart in the center rack and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese has melted into a beautifully bubbly, toasty layer. Allow the tart to cool slightly before slicing so the filling sets and each piece holds together perfectly.

How to Serve Caramelized Onion, Apple & Cheddar Tart Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary leaves works wonders to add an herbal freshness that complements the savory-sweet filling. You can also drizzle a little honey over the top for a subtle extra touch of sweetness that makes each bite sing.

Side Dishes

This tart pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, cutting through the richness and adding a refreshing balance. Roasted root vegetables or a simple bowl of soup make for cozy additions that turn this tart into a satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress guests? Cut the tart into small squares or wedges and serve on a wooden board with a colorful spread of complementary cheeses and nuts. Alternatively, top with microgreens or edible flowers for a visually stunning dish that feels festive and fresh.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover tart tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining the flavors and textures that make this dish so delightful.

Freezing

You can freeze the assembled but unbaked tart by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, bake it straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it cooks all the way through.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid the microwave if possible, as reheating in the oven helps retain the crispness of the crust and the integrity of the filling.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple in this tart?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide a tart contrast, you can experiment with sweeter apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp if you prefer a milder flavor. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain balance.

Is it possible to make this tart gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind that the texture of the crust may vary slightly, but it will still taste delicious.

Can I prepare the caramelized onions and apples in advance?

Definitely. You can caramelize the onions and cook the apples a day ahead. Store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container and assemble the tart just before baking for convenience.

What cheese alternatives work if I’m not a fan of cheddar?

Gruyère, fontina, or even a sharp mozzarella can be fantastic substitutes. They all melt well and complement the sweetness of the onions and apples beautifully.

How do I make sure the tart crust doesn’t get soggy?

To avoid sogginess, make sure to chill your dough before baking and bake the tart on a lower oven rack for even heat distribution. You can also brush the crust lightly with a beaten egg before adding the filling to create a barrier.

Final Thoughts

This Caramelized Onion, Apple & Cheddar Tart Recipe truly shines as a cozy, flavorful dish that feels special even on an ordinary day. Whether you’re baking it for a gathering or indulging in a quiet night at home, it’s a wonderful way to savor the harmony of sweet and savory. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and fall in love with its beautiful layers of taste and texture just like I have.

Caramelized Onion, Apple & Cheddar Tart Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 72 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A savory tart featuring a buttery crust filled with sweet caramelized onions, tart Granny Smith apples, and sharp aged cheddar cheese. Perfect as a flavorful appetizer or a light meal.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Dough

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1/4 cup cold water
• Pinch of salt

For the Filling

• 2 medium yellow onions, sliced
• 1 medium Granny Smith apple, diced
• 1 cup shredded aged cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for sautéing)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Custard

• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt. Cut in the chilled, cubed unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture is crumbly. Gradually add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
2. Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
3. Caramelize the Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the sliced yellow onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and golden brown, about 20 minutes.
4. Add the Apples: Stir the diced Granny Smith apple into the caramelized onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the apples soften slightly.
5. Assemble the Tart: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and press it evenly into a tart pan. Pour the onion and apple mixture into the crust, then sprinkle the shredded aged cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
6. Prepare and Pour Custard: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream until smooth. Pour this custard mixture over the filling in the tart shell, allowing it to settle evenly.
7. Bake the Tart: Place the tart pan on the middle rack of the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Bake until the crust is golden brown and the custard is set. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

• This tart can be served warm or at room temperature.
• For added flavor, try incorporating fresh thyme or rosemary into the filling.
• Use aged cheddar for a sharper taste that complements the sweetness of the onions and apples.
• Ensure the dough is well chilled before baking to prevent shrinking.
• You can prepare the dough and filling a day ahead to save time on the day of baking.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Tart
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American