Description
Cheesy Herb and Caramelized Onion Bread Recipe
Ingredients:
2 1/2 cups (315g) all-purpose flour
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp salt
2 tsp active dry yeast
1 cup (240ml) warm water
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese (or any melting cheese)
1 large onion, thinly sliced
1 tbsp butter
1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh)
1 tsp dried rosemary (or fresh)
Optional: 2 tbsp chopped nuts for topping
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and salt.
Dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients and knead into a soft, elastic dough. Cover and let rise for 1 hour.
2. Caramelize the Onions:
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until golden and caramelized (about 20 minutes). Stir in thyme and rosemary, then set aside.
3. Assemble the Bread:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Roll out the dough into a rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the caramelized onions evenly, followed by the cheese. Roll the dough tightly into a log and place it in the prepared loaf pan.
4. Top and Bake:
Optional: Brush the top with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped nuts or extra herbs for added texture and flavor.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
5. Cool and Serve:
Let the bread cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect bread every time. First, ensure your water is between 105-115°F for optimal yeast activation. When kneading, aim for a smooth, non-sticky ball; this takes about 8-10 minutes by hand. For the caramelized onions, low and slow is key. Cook them over medium-low heat, adding a pinch of sugar to accelerate browning. When assembling, roll the dough rectangle to about 1/4-inch thickness to prevent tearing. Seal the final log tightly by pinching the seam and tucking the ends under before placing it in the pan.
Serving Suggestions
This savory bread is incredibly versatile. Serve it warm as a standout side to soups, stews, or a fresh garden salad. For an appetizer, slice it thinly and pair with a creamy garlic dip or a tangy tomato bruschetta topping. It also makes for a decadent breakfast or brunch item when served with soft scrambled eggs. For a complete meal, accompany it with a charcuterie board featuring cured meats, olives, and pickles.
How-to Summary
In summary: Activate yeast in warm water, then mix with dry ingredients to form a dough. Knead and let rise for one hour. Separately, slowly cook sliced onions in butter until golden and sweet, then add herbs. Roll out the risen dough, layer with onions and cheese, then roll into a log. Place in a greased loaf pan, add optional toppings, and bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until golden. Cool briefly before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry? Yes. Simply mix instant yeast directly with the dry ingredients and add the warm water and oil. No need to proof it separately.
How can I store leftovers? Store cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven.
My dough didn’t rise. What happened? The likely culprit is expired yeast or water that was too hot (which kills yeast) or too cold (which deactivates it). Always check the expiration date and use a thermometer.
Can I add other fillings? Absolutely. Sautéed mushrooms, cooked bacon bits, sun-dried tomatoes, or different cheese blends like cheddar and gouda work wonderfully.
Why is my bread dense inside? This can be due to over-kneading, using old yeast, not letting it rise fully, or slicing it while it’s still too hot, which causes it to collapse.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Rushing the Onions: Cooking onions over high heat will burn them before they caramelize. Patience is essential for deep, sweet flavor.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially water and milk (if substituted), are at room temperature to support proper yeast activity.
- Overfilling the Dough: Adding too much cheese or onion can cause the filling to leak out during baking and make the dough difficult to roll.
- Skipping the Cooling Time: Slicing the bread immediately will release steam and result in a gummy, collapsed texture. Let it set for at least 10 minutes.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Herb and Caramelized Onion Bread is more than a recipe; it’s a rewarding baking project that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. The combination of sweet, savory onions, melted cheese, and fragrant herbs baked into soft, fresh bread is truly special. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll master a beautiful, impressive loaf perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!