Description
This Caramelized Onion & Gruyère Stuffed Bread Wreath is a stunning and delicious appetizer or snack featuring rich, sweet caramelized onions and melted Gruyère cheese encased in flaky puff pastry. Easy to prepare and perfect for sharing, this savory bread wreath is enhanced with fresh thyme and a golden egg wash, making it an irresistible centerpiece for any gathering or holiday table.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Caramelized Onions
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Bread Wreath
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
- 1 ½ cups Gruyère cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- 1 large egg, beaten
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, salt, and pepper. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 25–30 minutes until the onions become deeply caramelized and golden. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Roll Out Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out both sheets of puff pastry to smooth out any creases and even their thickness. Transfer one sheet carefully onto the lined baking sheet.
- Add Filling: Spoon the cooled caramelized onions onto the first puff pastry sheet in a ring shape, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese evenly over the onions. If using, sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the cheese for extra aroma and flavor.
- Seal the Wreath: Lay the second sheet of puff pastry over the filling. Gently press around the filling edges to seal the two layers together, ensuring the filling stays inside during baking.
- Cut and Twist the Wreath: Using a sharp knife, cut slits around the ring about 2 inches apart. Twist each segment gently outward to expose the delicious filling side up, creating an attractive, wreath-like pattern.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the entire surface of the wreath with the beaten egg. This will give the pastry a beautiful golden-brown and shiny finish once baked.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 22–25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed, golden, and fully cooked. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For best results, use high-quality Gruyère cheese for natural melting and flavor.
- Make sure the onions are fully caramelized to achieve the deep sweetness that complements the cheese.
- You can prepare the caramelized onions a day ahead to save time on the day of baking.
- If you don’t have fresh thyme, dried thyme can be used, but reduce the quantity to avoid overpowering the filling.
- This recipe can be made vegetarian by ensuring the puff pastry is made without animal fats.
- Serve with a side of mustard or chutney for added flavor contrast.
