Name: Caramelized Onion and Thyme Focaccia Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 20 min
Total time: 3 h 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp salted butter; 4 cups diced yellow onions; 1/4 cup water; 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped; 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour; 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; 1-2 tbsp fresh thyme; 1/4 cup olive oil; 3 whole garlic cloves, crushed; Flaky sea salt (for garnish)

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If you have ever dreamed of biting into a warm, golden, and perfectly fluffy bread that sings with the sweet depth of caramelized onions and the earthy brightness of fresh thyme, this Caramelized Onion and Thyme Focaccia Recipe is exactly what you need. This focaccia stands out with its irresistibly tender crumb and the rich layers of flavor that come from slow-cooked onions and aromatic herbs. It’s a dish full of heart and soul, perfect for sharing with loved ones or elevating any meal with its rustic charm. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will earn a permanent spot in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a small white ceramic bowl filled with golden-brown caramelized onions that have a glossy texture. The onions are finely chopped and cooked until soft and slightly crispy on the edges, mixed with small bits of fresh green herbs scattered throughout. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and a slight shine on the onions hints at the presence of oil. The scene is closely framed to focus on the texture and color of the onions. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this focaccia comes from straightforward ingredients, each bringing its own special touch to the final masterpiece. From the sweetness of caramelized onions to the fresh hit of thyme and the hearty chew of the dough, these essentials create a symphony of flavors and textures that will make every bite unforgettable.

Olive oil: Adds richness and helps create that classic golden crust and tender crumb.
Salted butter: Used in caramelizing the onions to deepen their flavor and add a luscious texture.
Yellow onions: The star of the show, slowly caramelized for over an hour to develop their natural sweetness.
Water: Helps soften the onions during caramelization and hydrates the dough perfectly.
Fresh thyme: Infuses the focaccia with herbal brightness and a fragrant aroma.
All-purpose flour: The foundation for the dough, providing structure and chew.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a subtle umami depth and a slight savory crunch when baked.
Granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and enhances the caramelization of the onions and dough.
Instant yeast: Ensures a perfect rise for that light, airy texture.
Salt: Balances flavors and strengthens the dough.
Garlic cloves: Infused into oil for a fragrant topping that complements the onions beautifully.

How to Make Caramelized Onion and Thyme Focaccia Recipe

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Start by melting butter and olive oil together in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced yellow onions, add water, and cover to soften them gently. After about five minutes, remove the lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. This step is where patience pays off—stir the onions every so often for approximately one hour to develop that deep, sweet caramelization without burning them. Once beautifully golden and fragrant, stir in the fresh thyme and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, lukewarm water, Parmesan, olive oil, sugar, yeast, and salt. Use a sturdy wooden spoon to mix everything until you have a cohesive dough. The gentle incorporation of ingredients here ensures that your focaccia will be light and tender after baking.

Step 3: First Rise

Lightly oil your hands and a separate large bowl for proofing the dough. Place the dough into this bowl, cover it securely with plastic wrap, and set it somewhere warm. Give it roughly an hour to double in size. This rise is crucial for developing a soft, airy texture that sets focaccia apart from other breads.

Step 4: Prepare Garlic Oil

While the dough is resting, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add crushed garlic cloves and cook for about five minutes until the garlic is fragrant and just beginning to brown. Remove the garlic cloves and discard them to keep the oil smooth but deeply aromatic, then allow the oil to cool. This garlic-infused oil will add another layer of flavor when spread on the dough.

Step 5: Shape and Second Rise

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pour half of the garlic oil into an unlined 9×9 metal baking pan. Oil your hands again and gently stretch the risen dough upward and fold it over onto itself on all four sides. Then flip the dough seam-side down into the pan, cover it again with plastic wrap, and let it rise for a second time until doubled and pleasantly jiggly, about one hour more.

Step 6: Final Touches and Bake

After the second rise, the dough should be bubbly and nearly fill the pan. Pour the remaining garlic oil over the dough and use your fingers to press deep dimples into its surface—these create that signature focaccia texture. Sprinkle freshly chopped thyme on top and pop the pan into the oven. Bake for 12 to 18 minutes, until the focaccia is beautifully golden and reaches an internal temperature of at least 190°F (88°C).

Step 7: Top with Caramelized Onions and Serve

Once the focaccia is out of the oven, artfully spoon the caramelized onions evenly over the top while it is still warm. Let the pan cool on a wire rack, then add flaky sea salt and an optional sprinkle of fresh thyme. Slice into generous squares and prepare for compliments on every bite!

How to Serve Caramelized Onion and Thyme Focaccia Recipe

The image shows several thick, square pieces of bread with a soft, light beige inside and a golden crust. The top of each piece is covered with a layer of caramelized onions that are dark brown with some amber tones, mixed with small green herb leaves, creating a textured and slightly crispy surface. The bread pieces are arranged closely on a light brown parchment paper, placed on a white marbled surface. The image is a close-up, focusing on the different textures of the bread and onions, with natural warm lighting that highlights the caramelized topping. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of flaky sea salt right after baking enhances textures and flavors, while a few fresh thyme leaves scattered on top brighten the presentation visually and aromatically. You can also drizzle a little extra garlic oil if you want to amp up the aroma just before serving.

Side Dishes

This focaccia pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. It’s perfect alongside a fresh green salad, mellow cheeses, or a bowl of hearty soup. The complex sweetness of the onions and the herbal thyme notes create a natural companion to dishes with robust, savory flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the focaccia warm as a base for bruschetta toppings like tomatoes and basil, or use it to scoop up creamy hummus or rich tapenade. Cutting it into fingers makes it ideal for parties, offering your guests a delicious handheld bite that combines rustic charm with gourmet taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Focaccia is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain the bread’s moisture while preserving the integrity of the toppings for up to three days.

Freezing

You can freeze your focaccia by wrapping it tightly first in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. Stored this way, it will last about one month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw at room temperature before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat slices in the oven or toaster oven at a moderate temperature until warmed through and the crust regains some crispness. If you’re short on time, wrapping it in a damp paper towel and microwaving for a few seconds works too, though the texture won’t be quite as perfect as oven reheating.

FAQs

Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh thyme?

While fresh thyme adds a brighter, more vibrant flavor to the Caramelized Onion and Thyme Focaccia Recipe, dried thyme can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to use a bit less since dried herbs are more concentrated.

How long does it take to caramelize the onions properly?

Patience is key. The onions typically take about one hour on low to medium-low heat to caramelize fully, developing that rich sweetness without burning.

Can I substitute the Parmesan cheese?

If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, a hard cheese like Pecorino Romano works well too, providing similar umami notes. You can also omit it, though it does add a nice depth to the dough.

Is it necessary to do two rises for the dough?

Yes, two rises help develop the focaccia’s characteristic airy, fluffy texture and large bubbles. Skipping one rise might make the bread denser and less tender.

Can I add other toppings besides caramelized onions?

Absolutely! This focaccia is versatile. Feel free to experiment with toppings like rosemary, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even crumbled goat cheese for variety.

Final Thoughts

This Caramelized Onion and Thyme Focaccia Recipe is a true labor of love that rewards you with a deliciously aromatic and deeply flavorful bread, perfect for sharing or savoring solo. Once you’ve mastered it, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and time again, delighting in its simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a fast favorite in your kitchen!