Caramelized Onion, Mushroom, Apple, and Gruyere Bites – The Perfect Savory Appetizer

Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s bursting with rich, savory flavors? These Caramelized Onion, Mushroom, Apple, and Gruyere Bites are a delightful blend of caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, sweet-tart apples, and nutty Gruyere cheese, all nestled in flaky puff pastry. Each bite offers a perfect combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, making them a standout choice for any gathering.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply want an elegant snack, these bites are sure to impress. Plus, they’re easy to make and perfect for serving warm right out of the oven.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 4 ounces (113 g) baby bella mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 ½ Granny Smith apples, cubed into ½-inch cubes
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 ½ ounces (43 g) grated Gruyere cheese
• 2 tablespoons chives, minced
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 pound (907 g) frozen puff pastry, thawed
• 1 egg, beaten

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line your baking sheets with silicone baking mats or parchment paper, and set them aside.

2. Caramelize the Onions

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and 1 teaspoon of salt, then cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. Once done, transfer the onions to a large bowl.

3. Sauté the Mushrooms

Using the same skillet, sauté the sliced mushrooms for about 5 minutes until tender. Transfer the mushrooms to the bowl with the caramelized onions.

4. Cook the Apples

Melt the butter in the same skillet, then add the cubed Granny Smith apples along with 1 teaspoon of sugar. Cook the apples for about 10 minutes, or until they are soft but not mushy. Transfer the apples to the bowl with the onions and mushrooms.

5. Prepare the Filling

To the bowl of caramelized onions, mushrooms, and apples, add the grated Gruyere cheese, minced chives, and dried thyme. Mix everything together thoroughly and season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Prepare the Puff Pastry

Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut the pastry into 2-inch squares. Place the squares on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each one.

7. Assemble the Bites

Lightly brush each puff pastry square with beaten egg. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling in the center of each pastry square.

8. Bake

Bake the puff pastry bites for 25 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through for even browning. Bake until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.

9. Serve Warm

Let the bites cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor and texture!

Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, just fill the puff pastry squares and bake as directed.
• Customize the Filling: Feel free to substitute the Gruyere with another cheese like cheddar or fontina. You can also swap out the apples for pears or add some walnuts for extra crunch.
• Perfect for Parties: These bites are great for holiday parties or as an appetizer at a dinner gathering.  for a sophisticated pairing!

Nutrition Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 24-30 bites
• Calories: 120 kcal per bite

Why You’ll Love These Caramelized Onion, Mushroom, Apple, and Gruyere Bites

These Caramelized Onion, Mushroom, Apple, and Gruyere Bites are the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. The rich, caramelized onions add depth, while the sautéed mushrooms and apples offer a balance of umami and sweetness. The Gruyere cheese melts into the filling, creating a creamy, nutty flavor, and the flaky puff pastry makes each bite irresistibly crispy.

They’re not only easy to make but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or just looking for a unique appetizer, these bites will quickly become a favorite at your table.

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