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Soft Cheesy Onion Bread

Soft Cheesy Onion Bread

Soft Cheesy Onion Bread is a tender, fluffy bread combining the rich, melty goodness of mozzarella cheese with the natural sweetness and savoriness of slow-caramelized onions. Perfect as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, this recipe is easy to make at home with simple ingredients and offers a comforting, flavorful experience with every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free version)
  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 3 tbsp melted butter or olive oil

Filling Ingredients

  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp butter or olive oil (for caramelizing onions)
  • 1 tsp salt (for onions)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or vegan cheese for dairy-free option)
  • Optional fresh herbs: 1 tbsp chopped thyme or rosemary

For Brushing

  • 2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

  1. Preparing the Dough: Activate the yeast by dissolving it in warm water with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and the yeast mixture. Add melted butter or olive oil. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp towel and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
  2. Caramelizing the Onions: While the dough rises, thinly slice the onions. In a pan, cook them over low heat with butter or oil, stirring occasionally for 20-30 minutes until golden brown and sweet. Add salt to enhance flavor. Let onions cool before assembling.
  3. Assembling the Bread: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently. Roll it out into a rectangular shape on a floured surface. Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Roll the dough into a log and pinch the edges to seal. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking pan.
  4. Final Rise and Baking: Cover the loaf and let it rest for 30 minutes for a second rise. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the loaf with melted butter for a golden crust. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the bread is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. Allow to cool slightly before slicing.

Notes

  • Use fresh yeast and check expiration for proper dough rise.
  • Caramelize onions slowly over low heat to maximize sweetness and flavor.
  • Allow dough to rise twice for better texture and flavor.
  • Use room temperature ingredients to help dough come together and rise smoothly.
  • Brushing bread with butter before baking adds richness and golden color.
  • For gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour blends and xanthan gum to mimic dough texture.
  • Substitute mozzarella with your favorite melting cheese or vegan alternatives.
  • Optional additions include jalapeños for heat, fresh herbs mixed into dough, or sun-dried tomatoes for tanginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: Soft Cheesy Onion Bread, caramelized onion bread, cheesy bread, homemade bread, comfort food, appetizer, snack, gluten-free bread