Name: Caramelized Onion & Gouda Sourdough Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 13 h
Cuisine: Artisan
Ingredients: 3 1/2 cups bread flour; 1/2 cup whole wheat flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons salt; 1 cup active sourdough starter (fed); 1 1/4 cups lukewarm water; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 large yellow onion (thinly sliced); 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar; 1 1/2 cups shredded smoked Gouda cheese

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If you’re searching for a showstopper bread that turns any meal into a special occasion, this Caramelized Onion & Gouda Sourdough is truly in a league of its own. Imagine a golden, crackly sourdough loaf brimming with ribbons of sweet, deeply caramelized onions and pockets of smoky, melty Gouda cheese — every slice is an irresistible balance of savory, tangy, and nutty flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or giving sourdough a whirl for the first time, this recipe’s approachable steps and vibrant character make it an absolute must-bake in any kitchen.

Caramelized Onion & Gouda Sourdough Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Caramelized Onion & Gouda Sourdough lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients; each one works its magic, from the bread’s chewy crumb to its tempting aroma and flavor-packed swirls. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need and why each ingredient matters.

Bread Flour: Provides the structure and chew that makes artisan loaves so satisfying.
Whole Wheat Flour: Adds depth and a subtle nutty note, perfectly complementing the Gouda.
Salt: Balances the flavors and strengthens the gluten network in your dough.
Active Sourdough Starter (fed): This is the heart of the loaf, lending signature tang and natural rise.
Lukewarm Water: Ensures proper hydration, helping the dough come together seamlessly.
Olive Oil: Used for caramelizing onions, it imparts extra richness and flavor.
Yellow Onion (thinly sliced): The star of the show, these caramelize into sweet, golden ribbons that swirl through each bite.
Sugar: Boosts the caramelization process, coaxing out the onions’ natural sweetness.
Balsamic Vinegar: Adds depth and a hint of tang to the caramelized onions, making them truly unforgettable.
Shredded Smoked Gouda Cheese: Brings that familiar, creamy, and smoky dimension that sets this sourdough apart.

How to Make Caramelized Onion & Gouda Sourdough

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium. Add your sliced onions, then kick back and enjoy the transformation as they soften, turn golden, and fill your kitchen with the most mouthwatering aroma. Stir occasionally for about 20–25 minutes, then stir in the sugar and balsamic vinegar for the last five minutes. This extra touch amplifies their sweetness and gives them incredible depth. Set them aside to cool completely — a crucial step for perfect Caramelized Onion & Gouda Sourdough texture!

Step 2: Mix the Sourdough Base

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine bread flour, whole wheat flour, and salt, giving them a quick mix. Add your fed sourdough starter and lukewarm water, then stir everything together until you have a rough, shaggy dough. Cover it up with a towel or plastic wrap, and let it rest for 30 minutes. This rest — known as autolyse — lets the flour absorb the water for better gluten development down the line.

Step 3: Add Onions and Gouda

Now comes the fun part: gently fold your cooled caramelized onions and shredded smoked Gouda into the dough. Be gentle to keep those gorgeous swirls visible. Either knead lightly or use a series of stretch-and-folds until everything is well distributed but not overworked. You’ll see and smell exactly how special this Caramelized Onion & Gouda Sourdough will be!

Step 4: Bulk Fermentation

Cover the dough and set it aside to rise at room temperature for 4–6 hours — you’re looking for it to double in size. For best structure, grab the dough every 30–45 minutes during the first two hours and stretch-and-fold the sides towards the center. This step strengthens the dough and helps those fillings remain well distributed.

Step 5: Shape and Chill Overnight

Once the dough is puffy and doubled, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface, shape it gently into a round boule, and transfer it into a well-floured banneton or bowl. Cover and refrigerate overnight (8–12 hours); this slow, cold ferment is where tons of flavor and those sought-after sourdough bubbles develop.

Step 6: Baking Day

The next day, preheat your oven to 475°F with a Dutch oven inside — this ensures a professional-style crust. Carefully turn the dough onto parchment paper, score the top (get creative!), and place it in the hot Dutch oven. Bake covered for 20 minutes, then uncover and continue baking another 20–25 minutes, until the crust is deep golden and blisters with beautiful color from the onions and cheese. Let the loaf cool completely before slicing so the crumb sets perfectly.

How to Serve Caramelized Onion & Gouda Sourdough

Garnishes

This loaf hardly needs dressing up, but sprinkling it with a little fresh thyme, cracked black pepper, or an extra handful of shredded smoked Gouda right after baking will make every bite pop just a bit more.

Side Dishes

Pairing Caramelized Onion & Gouda Sourdough with a silky butternut squash soup, crisp green salad, or a platter of charcuterie creates a cozy and satisfying meal. Its savory-sweet notes also make it perfect alongside fried eggs or as the base for a rustic sandwich.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cubing and toasting leftovers for the most luxurious croutons, turning thick slices into decadent grilled cheese sandwiches, or layering them into a breakfast strata. Serve torn wedges on a cheese board to steal the spotlight at any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Caramelized Onion & Gouda Sourdough in a clean kitchen towel or parchment followed by foil, then store at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep that crust crisp and crumb tender. If you need to store it longer, slice and pop it into the fridge (just know the texture is optimal fresh).

Freezing

For longer keeping, slice the loaf after it cools completely, then wrap tightly in plastic and place in a freezer bag. Your Caramelized Onion & Gouda Sourdough will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 2 months; just pull out what you need, when you need it.

Reheating

To restore that irresistible just-baked feel, reheat slices in a toaster or oven at 350°F for a few minutes; the cheese will get a little melty again and the aroma will return in full force. For whole loaves, wrap in foil and warm in the oven.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Bread

Absolutely! While smoked Gouda offers signature character, regular Gouda, Gruyère, or even sharp cheddar can work. Each will give your Caramelized Onion & Gouda Sourdough its own unique twist.

Do I need a Dutch oven to bake this bread?

A Dutch oven builds steam to create that beautiful crust, but you can use a heavy, lidded oven-safe pot or even bake on a preheated pizza stone with a pan of water for steam. Both yield excellent results.

How do I know when my caramelized onions are ready?

You’ll know they’re ready when they’re deeply golden, silky, and have a complex sweet aroma. Patience is key; low and slow delivers the best flavor for your Caramelized Onion & Gouda Sourdough.

Can I make this recipe with all-purpose flour?

You can swap some or all of the bread flour for all-purpose, but the loaf may be a little less chewy and structured. It’ll still be delicious, but bread flour is ideal for the classic texture.

What if I don’t have a sourdough starter?

If you don’t have a starter, you can substitute with a small amount of yeast and increase water slightly, but the flavor and crumb won’t be as complex as a traditional Caramelized Onion & Gouda Sourdough loaf.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something that makes both your home and your heart feel cozier, give Caramelized Onion & Gouda Sourdough a try. Each slice is a little celebration of simple ingredients and homemade artistry — I can’t wait for you to experience the magic in your own kitchen!

Caramelized Onion & Gouda Sourdough Recipe

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4.6 from 10 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 13 hours
Yield: 1 loaf (8–10 slices) 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich flavors of Caramelized Onion & Gouda Sourdough, a delectable artisan bread that combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the nuttiness of Gouda cheese, all in a crusty sourdough loaf.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread:

3 1/2 cups bread flour
1/2 cup whole wheat flour
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 cup active sourdough starter (fed)
1 1/4 cups lukewarm water

Caramelized Onions:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large yellow onion (thinly sliced)
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar

Additional:

1 1/2 cups shredded smoked Gouda cheese

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Instructions

Caramelize Onions: In a skillet, cook olive oil and onions over medium heat until deep golden brown. Add sugar and balsamic vinegar in the last 5 minutes. Set aside to cool.
Prepare Dough: Mix flours and salt in a bowl. Add sourdough starter and water. Rest for 30 minutes. Incorporate onions and Gouda into the dough.
Rise: Let dough rise at room temperature, performing stretch and folds. Shape into a boule, refrigerate overnight.
Bake: Preheat oven with Dutch oven inside. Bake dough until golden and crusty. Cool before slicing.