Description

This Caramelized Onion Cheddar Bread Savory Artisan Loaf combines the rich sweetness of slow-cooked caramelized onions with sharp, melty cheddar cheese baked into a crusty artisan loaf. Perfect for sandwiches, soups, or enjoyed plain, this bread offers a perfect balance of savory flavors and satisfying textures, making it a beloved kitchen staple for both novice and experienced bakers.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 tbsp granulated sugar
1 1/2 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter

Fillings

1 cup caramelized onions (made from about 2 medium onions slowly cooked)
1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (freshly shredded preferred)

Instructions

Caramelize the Onions: Slice onions thinly and cook them slowly in olive oil or butter over low heat. Stir occasionally and continue for 30-40 minutes until onions are golden brown and sweetly fragrant, forming the flavor base of the bread.
Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until bubbly and activated. Add the all-purpose flour, salt, and olive oil or melted butter. Mix and knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth.
First Rise: Lightly oil a bowl and place the dough inside, covering it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, until doubled in size.
Add Fillings: Gently deflate the dough and fold in the caramelized onions and shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly, being careful not to overwork the dough.
Shape and Second Rise: Shape the dough into a rustic round loaf and place it on parchment paper or a floured surface. Cover and let it rise again for about 45 minutes until puffy.
Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a pan of water at the bottom of the oven to create steam for a crusty exterior. Bake the loaf on the middle rack for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and tapping the bottom produces a hollow sound.

Notes

Patience with Onions: Caramelize slowly on low heat to maximize sweetness without burning.
Use Warm Water: Maintain water temperature around 110°F (43°C) for optimal yeast activation.
Don’t Overknead: Knead just until elastic to keep the crumb light and chewy.
Steam is Key: Adding steam during baking creates a beautifully crisp crust.
Fresh Cheese: Use freshly shredded cheddar for better melting and texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 30-40 minutes for caramelizing onions)
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/10th of loaf)
Calories: 180
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 280mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 3.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: Caramelized onion bread, cheddar bread, artisan bread, savory loaf, homemade bread, sandwich bread