Name: Caramelized Onion Focaccia Recipe
Prep time: 3 h 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 3 h 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp salted butter; 4 cups diced yellow onions (about 520 g); 1/4 cup water (56 g); 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped; 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour (320 g); 1 1/4 cup lukewarm water (283 g); 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, finely shredded (30 g); 2 tbsp olive oil (20 g); 1 tbsp granulated sugar; 2 tsp instant yeast; 3/4 tsp salt; 1-2 tbsp fresh thyme; 1/4 cup olive oil (40 g); 3 whole garlic cloves, crushed

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 51 reviews

If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into a perfectly fluffy, golden focaccia bread topped with rich, sweet caramelized onions and fragrant thyme, then this Caramelized Onion Focaccia Recipe is exactly what your kitchen has been waiting for. This bread is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. From the tender crumb soaked with garlicky olive oil to the deep, savory-sweet flavor of slowly caramelized onions, this focaccia will quickly become your go-to for appetizers, sides, or even a satisfying snack any time of day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows seven items arranged on a white marbled surface. In the center, there is a white bowl filled with white flour, forming a small mound. Surrounding it are other bowls and containers: at the top left, a white bowl with garlic cloves and fresh green herbs; at the top center, a white cup containing yellow olive oil; at the top right, a clear glass measuring cup with water; at the bottom left, a small white bowl with brown yeast granules; at the bottom center, a white bowl filled with chopped white onions; and at the bottom right, a white bowl with white salt. All items are neatly placed and clearly visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients together is the first joyful step toward baking this masterpiece. The magic lies in using pantry staples and a handful of fresh elements that each contribute something unique—whether it’s the softness of the flour, the sweet depth of the onions, or the herbal brightness of thyme.

Olive oil (for caramelizing and dough): Provides a rich, fruity base flavor and keeps the focaccia moist and tender.
Salted butter: Adds a creamy depth to the caramelized onions, enhancing their natural sweetness.
Diced yellow onions: The star ingredient that’s slowly cooked to bring out a rich, sweet flavor and tender texture.
Water (lukewarm and for onions): Lukewarm water activates the yeast gently; a splash keeps the onions soft as they caramelize.
Fresh thyme: This herb brightens the focaccia, complementing the sweet onions with a peppery, earthy note.
All purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure for a soft yet chewy focaccia crumb.
Parmesan cheese: Brings a subtle umami and savory sharpness to the dough.
Granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and balances the savory flavors with a hint of sweetness.
Instant yeast: Works its magic to create that fluffy rise without needing a lot of extra work.
Salt: Essential for bringing out flavor and controlling yeast activity.
Garlic cloves: Infuses the olive oil with a warm, aromatic garlic punch, bringing another layer of deliciousness.

How to Make Caramelized Onion Focaccia Recipe

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Start by melting butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then stir in the diced yellow onions with a splash of water. Cover to soften the onions gently, then uncover and reduce the heat to let the onions cook slowly, stirring frequently. This patience pays off—the onions transform from sharp and pungent to irresistibly sweet and deeply golden in about an hour. Toss in fresh thyme at the end for an herbal lift before transferring the caramelized mixture to a bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine your flour, lukewarm water, parmesan, olive oil, sugar, yeast, and salt with a wooden spoon until no dry flour remains. This no-knead dough is forgiving and easy, developing a soft, stretchy texture as it rests, making it perfect for both beginners and bread lovers alike.

Step 3: First Rise

Lightly oil your hands and bowl, then place the dough inside and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Let it rest in a warm spot for about an hour until doubled in size—this is where the yeast does its wonderful work, creating a light, airy dough perfect for your focaccia base.

Step 4: Make Garlic Oil

While the dough rises, gently heat olive oil with crushed garlic cloves until fragrant and starting to brown. Remove the garlic to prevent bitterness, and allow the infused oil to cool. This garlicky oil will be generously used to flavor the dough, adding a savory richness that pairs beautifully with the onions.

Step 5: Shape and Second Rise

Preheat the oven to 425 F (220 C). Begin stretching and folding the dough by pulling each edge upward and folding it toward the center, creating layers that help trap air inside. Transfer the dough seam side down into the oiled baking pan. Cover again with plastic wrap and let it rise for another hour until wonderfully puffy and bubbly.

Step 6: Add Garlic Oil and Bake

Once risen, pour half the garlic oil into the preheated baking pan, then coat the dough with the remaining oil. Using your fingers, press deep dimples into the dough’s surface—the signature look of focaccia—then sprinkle with fresh thyme. Bake immediately for 12 to 18 minutes until the crust is a golden brown and the inside reaches a perfect, soft texture.

Step 7: Add Caramelized Onions and Finish

Right out of the oven, spoon the fragrant caramelized onions evenly over the focaccia. Let it cool slightly on a rack, then sprinkle with flaky sea salt and extra thyme if you’re feeling fancy. This last flourish transforms the focaccia into an utterly irresistible dish that’s ready for sharing or savoring solo.

How to Serve Caramelized Onion Focaccia Recipe

The image shows a close-up view of a thick, pale dough spread in a metal baking pan. The dough has visible dimples and a soft, slightly bubbly texture. It is topped with scattered fresh green herbs and drizzles of golden olive oil that add shiny spots to the surface. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh thyme and flaky sea salt sprinkled on top brighten every bite and enhance the focaccia’s texture and flavor. For extra indulgence, a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a scattering of freshly cracked black pepper can make your servings pop with aroma and taste.

Side Dishes

This Caramelized Onion Focaccia Recipe pairs beautifully with soups like tomato bisque or a hearty minestrone, salads featuring peppery arugula or crisp greens, and even alongside roasted vegetables or grilled meats for a satisfying, rustic Italian-inspired meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the focaccia into thick squares for dipping into olive oil and balsamic, or slice into thin strips for a unique breadstick alternative at parties. You can also top individual pieces with fresh mozzarella and roasted tomatoes to turn it into a quick flatbread pizza snack that is sure to impress anyone lucky enough to try it.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers after enjoying this caramelized onion focaccia, keep them fresh by storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The focaccia will hold onto its moist, fluffy texture beautifully during that time.

Freezing

For longer preservation, wrap the focaccia tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil, then freeze for up to a month. This makes it easy to enjoy a freshly baked taste whenever the craving strikes without starting from scratch.

Reheating

To bring your focaccia back to life, warm it in an oven preheated to 350 F for about 10 minutes or until heated through, or microwave it briefly for convenience. Reheating refreshes the crust and restores the softness inside, making each bite as delightful as the first.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of onion for caramelizing?

Absolutely! While yellow onions are classic for their balance of sweetness and sharpness, you can try red or white onions for different flavor nuances. Just keep in mind that cooking times to caramelize may vary slightly depending on the onion’s sugar content.

Is it necessary to use instant yeast for this recipe?

Instant yeast is recommended because it works quickly without needing to be activated in water first, making the process smoother and faster. If you only have active dry yeast, you can use it but dissolve it in lukewarm water first and allow it to bloom before mixing.

Can I make this focaccia without parmesan cheese?

Yes, parmesan adds a subtle savory depth, but it’s optional. If you omit it, your focaccia will still be deliciously tender and flavorful thanks to the other rich ingredients like garlic oil and caramelized onions.

How can I tell when the focaccia dough has risen enough?

The dough should roughly double in size and look puffy with visible bubbles. When pressed gently with a fingertip, it should hold the indentation without springing back immediately, indicating good fermentation and airiness inside.

What’s the best way to get those classic focaccia dimples?

Use your fingertips to press straight down into the dough deeply and evenly just before baking. This not only gives focaccia its signature look but also traps pockets of garlic oil and herbs, enhancing flavor and creating delightful texture pockets.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Caramelized Onion Focaccia Recipe, it will become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire. It’s elegant enough to impress guests yet simple and cozy enough for everyday enjoyment. The combination of sweet onions, fragrant thyme, and garlicky olive oil on a soft, fluffy focaccia is pure magic. So grab your ingredients, get that dough rising, and prepare for some serious compliments around the table.