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Apple Cheddar Caramelized Onion Pastry Bites

These pastry bites combine the comforting flavors of sweet onions, tart apples, and sharp cheddar cheese, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry, making them perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings at home.
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Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 20 pieces
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 130
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the filling
  • 2 tablespoons salted butter Use unsalted butter if preferred, and adjust salt to taste.
  • 2 large yellow onions, cut into thin crosswise rings Choose heavy, firm onions for best flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves Dried thyme can be used; adjust amount down.
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt Adjust to taste if using unsalted butter.
  • 6 tablespoons fresh apple cider, divided Use apple juice or white wine if cider is unavailable.
  • 1 sheet good-quality store-bought puff pastry Keep cold until ready to use.
  • 1 medium firm-tart apple, unpeeled, cored and thinly sliced Granny Smith or similar apples work well.
  • 3 cups finely grated sharp Cheddar Gruyère can be used for a different flavor.

Method
 

Cook the Onions Slowly
  1. Melt the butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the onions, thyme, and salt. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8 to 10 minutes until onions are translucent.
Build the Caramelized Flavor
  1. Uncover the skillet and raise the heat to medium. Add 4 tablespoons of cider and scrape up the browned bits. Cook until liquid reduces to about 1 tablespoon, approximately 8 minutes. Add the remaining cider and cook 10 minutes more until onions are golden brown.
Prepare the Pastry
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and place a rack in the second-lowest position. Roll the puff pastry into a rectangle about 12 by 15 inches on an ungreased baking sheet, freezing for 4 minutes if it gets soft.
Cut and Fill the Diamonds
  1. Slice the pastry into diamonds about 3 inches wide. Place a slice of apple, a small mound of onions, and a sprinkle of cheese in the center of each diamond.
Bake Until Golden
  1. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the cheese melts and the pastry is golden brown. Serve warm.

Notes

These bites can be made ahead by preparing the onions in advance. Pair with salads, soups, or lighter sides for a balanced meal.