Easy French Onion Bread
Transform your kitchen into a French bakery with this Easy French Onion Bread, a heavenly combination of soft, homemade bread and the rich flavors of caramelized onions, Gruyere cheese, and aromatic thyme. This recipe simplifies bread-making with instant yeast and straightforward steps, while the caramelized onions add a sweet and savory depth that pairs beautifully with the nutty, melted cheese baked right into the dough. Perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, this bread is ideal for serving alongside soups, stews, or as a standout centerpiece at brunch. Its golden, egg-washed crust and optional cheese topping ensure every slice is irresistibly flavorful and visually stunning. Ready in just over an hour and packed with bold, comforting flavors, this is the ultimate homemade bread for any occasion.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 2 medium (thinly sliced) Yellow onion
- 1 teaspoon Granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 3 cups All-purpose flour
- 2.25 teaspoons Instant yeast
- 1.25 cups Warm water
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 cup (shredded) Gruyere or Swiss cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dried thyme
- 1 large (beaten, for egg wash) Egg
Instructions
In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized and golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the warm water and olive oil. Stir until the dough begins to come together.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for 5-6 minutes.
Gently fold in the caramelized onions, shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese, and dried thyme. Knead until evenly incorporated, being careful to not overwork the dough.
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease a loaf pan, depending on your preferred bread shape.
Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a loaf or a round boule. Place it onto the prepared baking sheet or in the loaf pan.
Brush the top of the dough with the beaten egg to create a shiny, golden crust when baked.
Optionally, sprinkle additional shredded cheese or a pinch of thyme on top for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
308 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 11.8 g | 15% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.1 g | 26% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 43 mg | 14% | |
| Sodium | 354 mg | 15% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 39.1 g | 14% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.8 g | 6% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.9 g | ||
| Protein | 10.4 g | 21% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 158 mg | 12% | |
| Iron | 1.9 mg | 11% | |
| Potassium | 108 mg | 2% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
