Name: Caramelized Onion & Gruyère Stuffed Bread Wreath
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Ingredients: 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast; 1 cup warm milk; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 large egg; 3 large yellow onions; 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter; 2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons melted butter or 1 egg for wash

Description

This Caramelized Onion & Gruyère Stuffed Bread Wreath is a delightful centerpiece, perfect for gatherings!

Ingredients

Scale

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
1 cup warm milk
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
3 large yellow onions
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded
1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons melted butter or 1 egg for wash

Instructions

Start by activating your yeast to ensure a perfect rise in your bread. Combine the warm milk with the sugar in a small bowl, then sprinkle in the active dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This indicates that your yeast is alive and ready to help your dough rise.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the activated yeast mixture with the egg, melted butter, and salt. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Transfer the dough to your countertop and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This kneading process is crucial as it develops the gluten which gives the bread its wonderful texture.
After your dough is well-kneaded, form it into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm area until it has doubled in size. This should take about 1 hour, depending on the warmth of your kitchen.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-low heat. Add the sliced yellow onions, stirring frequently. Allow them to cook slowly, which will bring out their natural sugars and transform them into a golden, sweet filling. Patience is key here; this process can take 30-40 minutes. Once caramelized, season with fresh thyme or rosemary, black pepper, and salt.
Once the onions are caramelized, remove the skillet from the heat and let them cool slightly. Combine the onions with the finely shredded Gruyère cheese in a bowl, mixing well to ensure the flavors combine.
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle approximately ¼-inch thick. Spread the filling mixture over the dough evenly, covering every inch to maximize flavor in each bite.
Starting from one edge of the dough, carefully roll the rectangle into a log shape, sealing the ends. With a sharp knife, slice the log into even pieces, about 1.5 inches wide. Arrange these slices in a circular pattern on your prepared baking sheet, overlapping slightly to create the wreath effect.
Cover your wreath with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Before baking, brush the top with melted butter or an egg wash for a beautiful golden finish. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

Notes

For the best flavor, caramelize the onions slowly over low heat.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Appetizer

Nutrition

Calories: 350 per serving
Sodium: 450 mg
Protein: 12 g