If you are planning a special menu for a festive occasion like New Year's Eve or simply want to surprise your guests with an exquisite appetizer, Brie cheese puff pastry, caramelized onion and walnuts are an option that cannot be missed. It is an easy recipe to prepare, with a incomparable combination of flavors that will delight all palates. In addition, the golden and delicate appearance of the puff pastries makes them a very attractive presentation on the table.
The interesting mix of ingredients such as Brie cheese, caramelized onions and walnuts It provides contrasts in texture and flavour that make these puff pastries an ideal choice both as a starter at special events and as an everyday snack. Although caramelising the onion takes a little time, the effort is worth it and you can make this preparation in advance to speed up the process.
Ingredients needed
- 3 large onions, finely julienned
- Extra virgin olive oil
- A pinch of salt
- A handful of walnuts
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- Brie cheese
- 1 rectangular puff pastry sheet
- 1 egg to paint the dough
The choice of high quality ingredients, such as a good brie cheese and fresh walnuts, will make all the difference in the final result of this recipe. You can also experiment with red onions for a slightly sweeter flavor and an attractive color.
Step by step to prepare the puff pastries
- Caramelize the onion: Place a generous amount of olive oil in a frying pan and cook the onions over a low heat for approximately 90 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a pinch of salt 10 minutes before the end. When the onions are golden and soft, drain them in a colander and set aside. You can do this step the day before to save time.
- Caramelize the nuts: In a pan, mix the brown sugar with a tablespoon of water and wait for it to bubble to form caramel. Add the walnuts and stir off the heat until they are coated. Return the pan to the heat so that the walnuts caramelise completely. Spread them out on baking paper to cool and not stick together.
- Prepare the puff pastry: Spread the puff pastry on a clean surface and cut it into 9 equal rectangles. On each rectangle, place two pieces of brie cheese, a teaspoon of caramelized onion and some walnuts.
- Form the packets: Bring the four corners of each rectangle together towards the centre, making sure to seal the edges tightly so they don't open during baking. Place the packets on a baking sheet lined with baking paper, with the seam facing down.
- Paint and bake: Use a brush to coat each packet with beaten egg and place in a preheated oven at 220ºC. Bake for about 15 minutes or until the puff pastries are golden and crispy.
Tips and Variations
To give this recipe a personal touch, you can try the following variations:
- Include aromatic herbs such as thyme or rosemary, which combine perfectly with brie cheese and walnuts.
- Substitute walnuts with almonds or hazelnuts for a different flavor.
- Add a touch of honey or fig jam before closing the puff pastries for an extra sweet contrast.
If you are looking for more ideas to enrich your menu, we recommend you visit our section of Special meals to prepare at home this Christmas.
Although these puff pastries are ideal to enjoy hot or warm straight from the oven, they have the advantage that they can also be served cold if you need to prepare them in advance. Their combination of crispy, creamy and caramelized textures makes them a very versatile option for any occasion.
Either as a luxury appetizer or as part of a special meal, these puff pastries are a recipe you'll want to make over and over again. Dare to experiment with the ingredients and delight your guests with this delicious treat.