If you are on the hunt for a deeply flavorful, perfectly textured bread to brighten your table, this Caramelized Onion and Fresh Thyme Focaccia Recipe is your answer. Imagine soft, pillowy focaccia infused with sweet, golden caramelized onions and the fresh, herbaceous notes of thyme, baked to a crisp, golden perfection. It’s a delightful blend of rustic charm and gourmet taste that transforms simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or alongside a meal, this focaccia will quickly become a beloved favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the rich caramelized onions that bring sweetness and depth, to the fresh thyme that adds a bright herbal lift. The olive oil and butter create the tender crumb and crispy exterior focaccia is famous for, while parmesan cheese adds a subtle savory boost.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Used in the dough and for cooking, it lends a fruity richness and keeps the bread moist.
- 1 tbsp salted butter: Adds creaminess to caramelize the onions perfectly without burning.
- 4 cups diced yellow onions: The star for that luscious caramelized sweetness.
- 1/4 cup water: Helps soften onions in the initial cooking stage.
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme (chopped): Brings herbal brightness to balance the sweetness of onions.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the chewy, elastic base of the dough.
- 1 1/4 cup lukewarm water: Activates yeast for a perfect rise.
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese (finely shredded): Adds an umami layer for richer flavor.
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and contributes to browning.
- 2 tsp instant yeast: Responsible for the dough’s airy texture.
- 3/4 tsp salt: Essential for flavor balance and dough structure.
- 1-2 tbsp fresh thyme: For sprinkling on top before baking.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Used for garlic-infused oil and brushing dough.
- 3 whole garlic cloves (crushed): Infuse the olive oil with fragrant garlic aroma.
How to Make Caramelized Onion and Fresh Thyme Focaccia Recipe
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Start by melting the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add your diced onions and a splash of water. Cover and let the onions soften gently. Once softened, reduce to medium-low, removing the lid to let them slowly develop that gorgeous caramel color over about an hour. Stir frequently to prevent burning and mix in the fresh chopped thyme at the end for that lovely herbal touch.
Step 2: Prepare the Focaccia Dough
In a large bowl, combine flour, parmesan, lukewarm water, olive oil, sugar, yeast, and salt. Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough comes together. It will be sticky, but that’s exactly what you want for a light, chewy focaccia crumb.
Step 3: First Rise
Lightly oil your hands and a clean bowl, put your dough in, and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Set the bowl in a warm spot to rise for about an hour, until doubled in size and delightfully puffy.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Oil
While the dough rises, infuse olive oil with crushed garlic cloves by heating gently until aromatic and slightly browned—taking care to avoid burning. Remove the garlic and set the golden oil aside to cool. This oil will impart wonderful flavor and help create crisp, delicious focaccia edges.
Step 5: Prep for Baking
Preheat your oven to 425 F (220 C). Pour half of your garlic oil into a non-lined 9×9 metal baking pan and set it aside. This oil bath will keep the focaccia from sticking and add irresistible flavor.
Step 6: Shape and Second Rise
Once your dough has doubled, gently stretch and fold the edges toward the center a few times to develop structure. Transfer it seam-side down into the oiled pan. Cover again and let rise for another hour until the dough fills the pan and shows lovely bubbles.
Step 7: Final Prep and Bake
After the second rise, pour the remaining garlic oil over the dough. Press your fingers deeply to create classic focaccia dimples, which hold flavor and add texture. Sprinkle fresh thyme on top. Bake immediately for 12 to 18 minutes, until the focaccia is golden and reaches about 190 F inside.
Step 8: Add Caramelized Onions
Remove from the oven, spoon those beautifully caramelized onions on top, then let the focaccia cool in the pan on a wire rack. Finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and more fresh thyme if you like. Slice and serve warm for best flavor.
How to Serve Caramelized Onion and Fresh Thyme Focaccia Recipe
Garnishes
Keep it simple to let the focaccia shine with flaky sea salt, extra fresh thyme, or a drizzle of good olive oil. For added indulgence, a sprinkling of shaved parmesan or a scattering of chili flakes can elevate your focaccia experience.
Side Dishes
This focaccia pairs beautifully with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or hearty soups. It also makes a fantastic accompaniment to cheese boards or charcuterie spreads, turning any meal into a cozy gathering.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve slices topped with a smear of ricotta and a drizzle of honey for brunch, or use it as a base for open-faced sandwiches with cured meats and arugula. You can even tear it into pieces and serve as a shareable snack with dips like olive tapenade or roasted red pepper hummus.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover focaccia, store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh for a couple of days. Be sure to bring it back to room temperature or warm it slightly for the best texture before enjoying again.
Freezing
This Caramelized Onion and Fresh Thyme Focaccia Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap your cooled focaccia tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, and freeze for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.
Reheating
Warm your focaccia in the oven at 350 F for 10–15 minutes to revive the crisp crust and soft interior. Alternatively, a quick zap in the microwave will do if you’re pressed for time, though it may soften the crust slightly.
FAQs
Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh?
While fresh thyme gives that vibrant, herbaceous aroma perfect for this focaccia, you can substitute dried thyme if needed. Use about one-third the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated, but fresh is definitely preferred whenever possible.
What’s the best way to caramelize onions without burning them?
Patience is key! Keep your heat at medium-low, stir frequently, and add a splash of water occasionally to keep the onions moist and prevent burning. Slow cooking over about an hour brings out the deep sweetness you want.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix the dough and refrigerate it overnight to develop more flavor. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before the first rise and adjust rising times accordingly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This focaccia uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, substitute with a gluten-free baking flour blend, but results may vary, especially with the dough’s texture and rise.
Can I add other toppings besides caramelized onions?
Definitely! This focaccia is versatile. Feel free to add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, rosemary, or even crumbled goat cheese for a different twist while keeping the base flavors balanced.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about making focaccia from scratch, especially when it’s loaded with sweet caramelized onions and fragrant fresh thyme. This Caramelized Onion and Fresh Thyme Focaccia Recipe brings so much warmth and flavor to your kitchen and makes any meal feel special. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want this golden beauty on your table all the time. So grab your ingredients, and get ready to bake some love into your day!
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Caramelized Onion and Fresh Thyme Focaccia Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
This Caramelized Onion Focaccia recipe combines sweet, deeply caramelized onions with herb-infused olive oil and a tender, airy bread base. With a perfect golden crust and soft interior, the focaccia is topped with fragrant fresh thyme and Parmesan cheese, delivering a savory and slightly sweet flavor that is ideal for serving as an appetizer, snack, or accompaniment to meals. The dough undergoes two rises for maximum fluffiness, and the garlic-infused olive oil adds extra richness and aroma.
Ingredients
For the Caramelized Onions
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp salted butter
- 4 cups diced yellow onions
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
For the Dough
- 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour (see notes for measuring)
- 1 1/4 cup lukewarm water
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, finely shredded
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 tsp instant yeast
- 3/4 tsp salt
For the Garlic Oil and Topping
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 whole garlic cloves, crushed
- 1–2 tbsp fresh thyme
- Flaky sea salt, for finishing (optional)
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: Melt the butter and 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and pour in 1/4 cup water, then cover the skillet. Let the onions soften for about 5 minutes. Remove the lid, lower the heat to medium-low, and stir the onions frequently for about 1 hour until deeply caramelized and golden. Transfer the caramelized onions to a bowl and stir in 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, lukewarm water, parmesan cheese, 2 tbsp olive oil, sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Use a wooden spoon to mix thoroughly until a combined dough forms.
- First Rise: Lightly oil your hands and a separate large bowl. Place the dough in the bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and set it in a warm place. Let it rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Make Garlic Oil: While the dough rises, heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add crushed garlic cloves and cook for 5 minutes until fragrant and starting to brown. Remove garlic cloves and discard. Allow the infused oil to cool.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Pour half of the garlic oil into an unlined 9×9 inch metal baking pan and set aside.
- Shape the Dough: Once the dough has doubled, lightly oil your hands. Stretch and fold each quarter of the dough upwards and fold toward the center, repeating on all four sides to build dough structure. Transfer the dough seam-side down into the oiled pan. Cover with plastic wrap and allow a second rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
- Check Second Rise: After the second rise, the dough should be jiggly, filled with large air bubbles, and nearly fill the pan.
- Add Garlic Oil and Create Dimples: Pour the remaining garlic oil over the dough’s surface. Press your fingers into the dough to create deep dimples evenly across the top. Sprinkle 1-2 tbsp fresh thyme on top.
- Bake the Focaccia: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 12-18 minutes until the top is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches at least 190°F (88°C).
- Finish and Serve: Remove the focaccia from the oven and spoon the caramelized onions evenly on top. Cool the bread in the pan on a wire rack. Once cool, sprinkle with flaky sea salt and extra fresh thyme if desired. Cut into 12 servings and enjoy!
- Storage: Best served the day it’s made. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge or tightly wrapped in plastic and foil to freeze for up to one month. Reheat thoroughly in the microwave or oven before serving.
Notes
- For accurate measurement of flour, spoon it into the measuring cup and level off with a knife instead of scooping directly, to avoid packing.
- The recipe uses instant yeast which does not require proofing.
- The garlic oil adds rich flavor, but ensure the garlic is removed to avoid overpowering bitterness during baking.
- You can substitute fresh thyme with rosemary or oregano, but fresh thyme complements the caramelized onions best.
- For best texture, avoid using non-metal pans for baking focaccia as metal pans conduct heat better and help develop a crisp crust.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
