Print

Caramelized Onion Focaccia

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This Caramelized Onion Focaccia features a light, airy crumb topped with sweet, slow-cooked onions and fragrant thyme. With its crisp golden crust and soft interior, it’s perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or sandwich bread.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose or bread flour
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 3/4 cups warm water
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Extra olive oil, for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Dissolve the yeast and sugar in the warm water and let stand for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Combine the flour, salt, olive oil, and yeast mixture in a large bowl and mix until a soft dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, then place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover and let rise for 1 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
  4. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Cook the sliced onions for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden and caramelized. Stir in the thyme during the final few minutes.
  5. Generously grease a baking pan with olive oil and gently stretch the risen dough into the pan.
  6. Cover and let the dough rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until puffy.
  7. Use your fingertips to create dimples across the surface of the dough.
  8. Drizzle with olive oil, evenly distribute the caramelized onions over the top, and sprinkle with flaky sea salt and black pepper.
  9. Bake in a preheated 425°F (220°C) oven for 22 to 28 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown.
  10. Allow the focaccia to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Top with grated Parmesan or Pecorino before baking for extra flavor.
  • Add fresh rosemary along with the thyme for a fragrant variation.
  • Include sliced olives or roasted garlic for additional savory notes.
  • Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
  • Add crumbled goat cheese after baking for a creamy finish.
  • Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Freeze individual slices for up to 3 months and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8 to 10 minutes.

Nutrition