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Soft Cheesy Onion Bread

Soft Cheesy Onion Bread is a warm, gooey loaf combining the rich savoriness of melted cheese with the sweet, aromatic flavor of caramelized onions. This pillowy-soft bread offers a perfect balance of tender texture and delicious taste, ideal for breakfast, snacks, or as a side dish. Made with simple pantry staples and easily customizable, it is a comforting, crowd-pleasing favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup warm milk or water (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Onion and Cheese Mix

  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp butter or oil (for caramelizing onions)
  • 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar or mozzarella cheese, shredded

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Activate the yeast by mixing it with warm milk or water and a pinch of sugar. Let it foam for 5–10 minutes until bubbly. In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and melted butter to the flour. Knead the dough either by hand for 8–10 minutes or with a stand mixer for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  2. Caramelize the Onions: While the dough is rising, heat butter or oil in a pan over low heat. Add thinly sliced onions and stir frequently. Cook slowly for 20–30 minutes until onions are soft, golden, and fragrant, releasing their sweetness.
  3. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size, ensuring a light and airy texture.
  4. Incorporate Cheese and Onions: Gently punch down the dough and knead in the caramelized onions and shredded cheese, distributing them evenly without overworking the dough to maintain softness.
  5. Shape and Second Rise: Shape the dough into a loaf or round shape. Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet or greased loaf pan. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy and ready to bake.
  6. Bake Until Golden: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25–30 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the cheese on top has melted and bubbled. Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients to help yeast activate effectively and ensure smooth dough formation.
  • Caramelize onions slowly over low heat for deeply sweet and flavorful results.
  • Mix gently after adding cheese to avoid toughening the dough.
  • Brush the hot baked loaf with melted butter for a glossy, rich crust.
  • Test for doneness by tapping the bottom of the loaf; it should sound hollow.

Nutrition

Keywords: soft bread, cheesy bread, onion bread, caramelized onions, savory bread, homemade bread, snack bread, easy bread recipe