about contact

Cheesy Onion Focaccia Bread

by
Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Cheesy Onion Focaccia Bread combines the soft, airy texture of classic focaccia with a savory topping of caramelized onions and melted cheese. This versatile bread is perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or snack and is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Soft and Fluffy: The focaccia is pillowy and light, with a crisp golden crust.
  • Savory and Cheesy: The combination of onions and cheese creates a rich, irresistible topping.
  • Easy to Make: Simple steps with no complicated techniques required.
  • Perfect for Any Meal: Serve it as a side, use it for sandwiches, or enjoy it on its own.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the dough:

  • All-purpose flour
  • Warm water
  • Active dry yeast
  • Olive oil
  • Salt
  • Sugar

For the topping:

  • Yellow onions (thinly sliced)
  • Olive oil or butter
  • Cheese (mozzarella, Parmesan, or a blend)
  • Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
  • Salt

Directions

  1. Prepare the Dough:
    • In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
    • Add flour, olive oil, and salt. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
    • Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
    • Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
  2. Prepare the Onions:
    • Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 20–25 minutes).
  3. Assemble the Focaccia:
    • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
    • Punch down the dough and transfer it to a greased baking sheet or pan. Stretch the dough into an even layer.
    • Use your fingers to create dimples across the surface of the dough. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
    • Spread the caramelized onions over the top, then sprinkle with cheese and fresh herbs if using.
  4. Bake:
    • Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the bread is golden and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
    • Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: Makes 6–8 slices
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1–2 hours rising time)
  • Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
  • Total Time: About 2 hours and 30 minutes

Variations

  • Herb Focaccia: Add chopped fresh basil, thyme, or oregano to the dough or topping.
  • Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños over the top before baking.
  • Garlic Lover’s: Add roasted garlic cloves to the topping for extra flavor.
  • Cheese Varieties: Try cheddar, Gruyere, or goat cheese for a unique twist.
  • Whole Wheat: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to maintain the crisp texture.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast. Skip the proofing step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

What type of cheese is best for this recipe?

Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, but any meltable cheese like Gruyere or fontina works well.

Can I make this dough ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.

How do I prevent the dough from sticking?

Use olive oil to grease your hands and the surface when handling the dough.

Can I freeze focaccia bread?

Yes, freeze baked focaccia in an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

What’s the best pan to use for focaccia?

A heavy-duty baking sheet, cast iron skillet, or rectangular pan works best for even baking.

How can I tell if the bread is done baking?

The edges should be golden, and the bottom of the bread should sound hollow when tapped.

Can I add toppings besides onions and cheese?

Absolutely! Try olives, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or even cooked bacon.

Is this bread vegan?

The dough itself can be vegan, but substitute cheese with a plant-based alternative and use olive oil for the onions.

Can I use a stand mixer?

Yes, use the dough hook attachment to mix and knead the dough for about 5 minutes.

Conclusion

Cheesy Onion Focaccia Bread is an irresistible combination of soft bread, caramelized onions, and gooey cheese. Whether you’re serving it as a side, snack, or centerpiece for a meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit. With its simple preparation and impressi

Print

Cheesy Onion Focaccia Bread

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This soft and fluffy focaccia bread is topped with caramelized onions, gooey melted cheese, and a touch of herbs. It’s perfect as a side dish, snack, or the base for your favorite sandwiches.

  • Author: Beth
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Chill Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Category: Breads
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale

For the dough:

  • 3 ½ cups (440 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 ¼ cups (300 ml) warm water (110°F/43°C)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) olive oil

For the topping:

  • 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for caramelizing)
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
  • Flaky sea salt, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the dough:

  1. Activate the yeast:
    • In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Mix the dough:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
  3. Knead and rise:
    • Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, knead in a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5 minutes.
    • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the caramelized onions:

  1. Cook the onions:
    • Heat the butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes until golden and caramelized. Add the sugar for extra sweetness if desired. Set aside to cool.

Assemble the focaccia:

  1. Shape the dough:
    • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
    • Punch down the risen dough and press it into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Use your fingers to create dimples all over the surface of the dough.
  2. Add the toppings:
    • Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top. Finish with a sprinkle of thyme or rosemary and a touch of flaky sea salt.

Bake the focaccia:

  1. Bake:
    • Bake the focaccia for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the cheese is bubbly.
  2. Cool and serve:
    • Allow the focaccia to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Substitute the cheese with your favorite blend, such as Gruyère or fontina, for a unique flavor.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star