Onion Lover's Twist Bread

Indulge in the savory aroma and rustic charm of Onion Lover's Twist Bread, a beautifully braided loaf bursting with caramelized onion, garlic, and herb-infused goodness. Perfectly golden and topped with an optional sprinkle of sesame seeds, this artisan-style bread features a rich filling of sautéed yellow onions paired with a hint of dried thyme and black pepper for a uniquely flavorful experience. Whether served warm as a centerpiece for family meals or as an indulgent base for gourmet sandwiches, this bread is a showstopper. With simple ingredients like all-purpose flour, yeast, and olive oil, plus an approachable twist-braiding technique, this recipe transforms basic pantry staples into bakery-worthy perfection. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a soft, aromatic bread that promises to wow onion enthusiasts and bread lovers alike.

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 3.5 cups All-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon Granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 2.25 teaspoons Dry yeast
• 1.25 cups Warm water (110°F/43°C)
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 1 whole Large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 0.5 teaspoons Dried thyme
• 0.25 teaspoons Ground black pepper
• 1 large Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon Sesame seeds (optional)

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and dry yeast.

Step 2

Gradually add warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until the dough forms a shaggy mass.

Step 3

Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes (or 5–6 minutes with a stand mixer and dough hook) until smooth and elastic.

Step 4

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 5

While the dough rises, prepare the onion filling. Heat the butter in a skillet over medium heat.

Step 6

Add the chopped onion and sauté for 7–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden brown.

Step 7

Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and ground black pepper. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat and cool completely.

Step 8

Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll the dough into a large rectangle, approximately 12x18 inches.

Step 9

Spread the cooled onion mixture evenly over the surface of the dough.

Step 10

Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.

Step 11

Using a sharp knife, slice the log lengthwise into two halves, exposing the onion layers.

Step 12

Twist the two halves together, keeping the cut sides facing up, to form a braided loaf.

Step 13

Place the twisted loaf onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover loosely with a kitchen towel and let rise for 30 minutes.

Step 14

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the risen loaf with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.

Step 15

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 16

Remove the bread from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for 15–20 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1017.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2248.1

Total Fat 65.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 21.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 248mg	0%
Sodium 2455.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 355.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 16.9g	0%
Total Sugars 20.5g
Protein 56.4g	0%

Vitamin D 41IU	0%
Calcium 234.8mg	0%
Iron 22.8mg	0%
Potassium 977.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 26.5%

Protein: 10.1%

Carbs: 63.5%