Caramelized Onion Grilled Cheese Spirals (Printable)

Buttery spirals with caramelized onions and gooey cheese, perfect as appetizers or snacks for any occasion.

# Components:

→ For the Caramelized Onions

01 - 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
04 - ½ teaspoon salt
05 - 1 teaspoon sugar
06 - 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

→ For the Spirals

07 - 1 sheet (approximately 250 grams) puff pastry, thawed if frozen
08 - 1 cup (100 grams) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
09 - ½ cup (50 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese
10 - 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
11 - 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)

# Directions:

01 - In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced yellow onions, salt, and sugar. Cook, stirring frequently for 15–20 minutes until the onions reach a deep golden, caramelized state. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and continue to cook for an additional 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
02 - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
03 - On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out the sheet of puff pastry to smooth out any seams. This will create an even base for your spirals.
04 - Evenly distribute the cooled caramelized onions over the prepared puff pastry, ensuring to leave a ½-inch border along one long edge. This border will help seal the roll.
05 - Generously sprinkle both the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the caramelized onions. If using, scatter the fresh thyme leaves evenly across the cheese.
06 - Beginning from the long edge with the filling closest to it, tightly roll up the puff pastry to create a log. Once rolled, wrap the log securely and place it in the freezer for 10 minutes to firm up, which will facilitate easier slicing.
07 - Remove the chilled log from the freezer and slice it into ½-inch (approximately 1.2 cm) thick spirals. Arrange the spirals, cut-side up, on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each spiral.
08 - Lightly brush the tops of each spiral with the beaten egg wash. This will give them a beautiful golden sheen during baking.
09 - Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed, and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
10 - Allow the caramelized onion grilled cheese spirals to cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving them warm. They are best enjoyed fresh.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in under an hour
  • Uses simple ingredients that create gourmet flavor
  • Perfect make ahead appetizer for entertaining
  • Versatile as a snack lunch or elegant starter
02 -
  • These spirals can be prepared ahead and frozen unbaked for up to 1 month
  • The recipe doubles easily for larger gatherings
  • Perfect finger food that doesnt require utensils or plates
03 -
  • For the ultimate caramelized onion flavor deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding the balsamic vinegar. This adds complexity that elevates these humble ingredients to restaurant quality.
  • When working with puff pastry always use a light touch and keep it cold until the last possible moment for maximum rise and flakiness.
  • Finally dont be tempted to overfill your spirals a thin even layer of ingredients creates the most beautiful and evenly cooked result.

Return