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.

Nutriscore Rating: 57/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:65 mins

Servings: 8

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

Directions

Step 1

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.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.

Step 3

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.

Step 4

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.

Step 5

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.

Step 6

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.

Step 7

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.

Step 8

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.

Step 9

Brush the top of the dough with the beaten egg to create a shiny, golden crust when baked.

Step 10

Optionally, sprinkle additional shredded cheese or a pinch of thyme on top for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Step 11

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.

Step 12

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

Serving size	949.2 grams (949.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2980

Total Fat 140.40g	180%
Saturated Fat 66.20g	331%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.60g
Cholesterol 495mg	165%
Sodium 4199mg	183%
Total Carbohydrate 304.90g	111%
Dietary Fiber 15.90g	57%
Total Sugars 15.40g
Protein 121.30g	243%

Vitamin D 68IU	341%
Calcium 2557mg	197%
Iron 19mg	108%
Potassium 1067mg	23%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 42.6%

Protein: 16.3%

Carbs: 41.1%