How to Make Cheesy Homemade Onion Bread

Master the Caramelized Onion Technique

Slow-cook onions to develop deep sweetness and complexity.

Create Perfect Bread Dough Texture

Balance ingredients and kneading for ideal chew and tenderness.

Layer Flavors Strategically

Apply onions and cheese mixture evenly for consistent taste in every bite.

Shape for Both Beauty and Function

Roll and score the loaf for dramatic presentation and easy serving.

Baking Tips

For the best flavor, caramelize the onions slowly over low heat. Rushing this process will result in bitter rather than sweet onions.

The bread can be prepared through the shaping step, then refrigerated overnight for a slow rise. Bring to room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

Try adding 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon to the filling for an extra savory touch.

For a softer crust, brush with butter immediately after removing from the oven.

This bread freezes well; slice before freezing for easy single-serving portions.

Cheesy Homemade Onion Bread

Name: Cheesy Homemade Onion Bread
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 3 h 10 min
Yield: 1 large loaf (12 servings)
Cuisine: European, Artisanal
Ingredients: For the caramelized onions:; 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves; For the bread dough:; 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast; 1 1/2 teaspoons salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 1/4 cups warm milk (110°F/45°C); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large egg; For the cheese mixture:; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, grated (optional); 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; For the topping:; 1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash); 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

A savory, aromatic loaf featuring caramelized onions folded into a tender, cheese-studded dough. This rustic bread boasts layers of flavor with sweet onions, sharp cheese, and fresh herbs throughout. Perfect alongside soups, as a sandwich base, or simply enjoyed warm with butter for an irresistible treat.

Prep Time

30 Minutes

Cook Time

40 Minutes

Total Time

3H10 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

For the caramelized onions:

3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced

2 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

For the bread dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour

2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast

1 1/2 teaspoons salt

1 tablespoon sugar

1 1/4 cups warm milk (110°F/45°C)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 large egg

For the cheese mixture:

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated

1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, grated (optional)

2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the topping:

1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash)

2 tablespoons melted butter

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon flaky sea salt

1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

Instructions

Start by caramelizing the onions: Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and salt, then cook slowly, stirring occasionally for 25-30 minutes until deeply golden and sweet. Add brown sugar (if using) and thyme in the last 5 minutes. Set aside to cool completely.

In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.

In a separate bowl, whisk together warm milk, olive oil, and egg.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-6 minutes.

Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

While the dough is rising, prepare the cheese mixture by combining all ingredients in a bowl. Set aside.

Once risen, punch down the dough and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle approximately 18x12 inches.

Spread the cooled caramelized onions evenly over the dough surface, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.

Sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the onions.

Starting from a long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam and ends to seal.

Place the roll seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Shape into a circle and connect the ends, or leave as a straight loaf.

Using kitchen scissors, cut slashes about two-thirds of the way through the loaf at 1-inch intervals.

Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy.

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Brush the loaf with egg wash, then bake for 30-35 minutes until deeply golden brown.

During the last 5 minutes of baking, brush with melted butter and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with flaky sea salt and fresh thyme leaves.

Allow to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing to prevent the cheese from oozing out completely.

Cheesy Homemade Onion Bread

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

How to Make Cheesy Homemade Onion Bread

Cheesy Homemade Onion Bread

Ingredients

Instructions