Caramelized Onion and Thyme Focaccia

Name: Caramelized Onion and Thyme Focaccia
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups warm water (110°F); 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast; 1 teaspoon sugar; 5 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon fine sea salt; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 large onions, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves; Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling

Highlighted under: Baking Favorites

I absolutely love making this Caramelized Onion and Thyme Focaccia in my kitchen. The combination of sweet, caramelized onions and fragrant thyme brings an irresistible aroma that fills the room. It’s become a staple at my gatherings, and the soft, airy bread is perfect for soaking up sauces or serving alongside soups. With just a few steps, you’ll create a beautifully rustic loaf that impresses everyone but is deceptively simple to prepare. This focaccia is not just a bread; it's a delightful experience that has quickly become a family favorite.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-17T17:06:28.161Z

I remember the first time I attempted this Caramelized Onion and Thyme Focaccia. The onions took on a rich, golden color as they slowly cooked down, filling my home with a sweet and savory scent. It struck me how the patience in caramelizing onions made such a difference in flavor. This method really brings out their natural sweetness, which beautifully complements the earthy thyme.

After experimenting with a few variations, I discovered that adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top just before baking elevates the focaccia even further. It breaks through the sweetness and enhances overall flavor, making every bite a delightful surprise. You’ll want to take your time with each stage – trust me!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic caramelized onions add a sweet depth of flavor.
Herbaceous thyme brings freshness to every bite.
A perfect blend of a crunchy crust and soft, chewy center.

      

The Role of Aromatics

Caramelized onions are the star of this focaccia, infusing each bite with natural sweetness and depth. As they cook, the sugars break down, creating that characteristic golden hue and a rich flavor. Aim for a slow cooking process over medium-low heat; rushing this step can lead to burnt edges before the onions are fully caramelized. Stir them every few minutes, allowing them to cook evenly and reach that perfect, silky texture.

Fresh thyme adds an herbal brightness that balances the rich onions beautifully. Thyme not only enhances the dish's aroma but also complements the bread's crust. If fresh thyme isn't available, dried thyme can work in a pinch; just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so reduce the amount to about a teaspoon.

Perfecting the Dough

Getting the dough right is crucial for a focaccia that has the ideal texture. Kneading for 8-10 minutes not only develops the gluten, making it elastic, but also allows the dough to trap air pockets, leading to the characteristic airy crumb. If the dough feels sticky, light dusting with flour as you knead can help achieve the right consistency without adding too much flour overall.

After kneading, letting the dough rise for at least an hour until it doubles in size is essential. A warm, draft-free location is ideal for this process. If your kitchen is cool, you can create a warm environment by placing the dough in the oven with just the light on. This helps the yeast to activate and gives the focaccia its light, fluffy texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started on your delicious focaccia!

Focaccia Dough

2 cups warm water (110°F)
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 teaspoon sugar
5 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon fine sea salt
1/4 cup olive oil

Topping

2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling

Once you've prepared your focaccia, enjoy it fresh out of the oven!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious focaccia.

Proof the Yeast

In a bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.

Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a rough dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.

Caramelize the Onions

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add onions and cook until deeply golden and sweet, about 25 minutes, stirring regularly.

Shape the Focaccia

Once risen, punch down the dough and transfer to a greased baking sheet. Stretch and shape into a rectangle. Dimple the surface with your fingers.

Assemble and Bake

Spread the caramelized onions on top, sprinkle with thyme and coarse sea salt. Let rise for another 20 minutes. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 25 minutes or until golden.

Allow the focaccia to cool slightly before slicing, then enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a more intense flavor, let the onions caramelize for a bit longer. Additionally, brush the focaccia with garlic-infused olive oil before baking for an extra aromatic kick.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This focaccia is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to extend its life, consider freezing it. After cooling, wrap the focaccia tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, storing it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it at room temperature and warm it in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until the crust is crisp again.

You can also prepare the dough ahead of time. After the first rise, punch it down and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, take the dough out and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before shaping. This step allows the dough to relax, making it easier to dimple and top with your caramelized onions.

Variations to Try

While caramelized onions and thyme make a stellar combination, feel free to experiment with different toppings. Roasted garlic or sun-dried tomatoes can add a delightful twist. For a cheesy version, sprinkle grated Parmesan or feta on top before baking for added flavor. Alternatively, you can incorporate seasonal vegetables like thinly sliced zucchini or bell peppers for a colorful and nutritious variation.

For those looking for a healthier option, consider swapping out half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour. This will give the focaccia a nuttier flavor and a slightly denser texture, while still maintaining a soft crumb. Just make sure to adjust the water slightly if you're using a flour with higher protein content.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the fridge.

→ What can I serve with focaccia?

This focaccia pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or even as a base for sandwiches.

→ Can I freeze leftover focaccia?

Yes! Once cooled, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

→ What variations can I try?

Feel free to experiment with different toppings like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even different herbs.