If you love the rich, caramelized flavors of French onion soup, you’re going to be obsessed with these French Onion Rolls! Soft, fluffy, and infused with golden caramelized onions, these rolls have a deep, savory flavor that makes them irresistible. Topped with melty cheese and a touch of herbs, they’re perfect for serving alongside soups, sandwiches, or just enjoying on their own.
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The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make, and the aroma of slow-cooked onions filling your kitchen is pure magic. Trust me—once you taste these, you’ll never go back to plain dinner rolls again!
Why You’ll Love French Onion Rolls
- Rich & Savory Flavor: Sweet caramelized onions give these rolls a deep, umami-packed taste.
- Soft & Fluffy Texture: A light, tender crumb makes them the perfect companion to any meal.
- Versatile & Delicious: Serve them with soups, sandwiches, or just slathered with butter.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dough in advance for easy baking.
- Cheesy Goodness: Melted cheese on top makes them even more irresistible.
Ingredients in French Onion Rolls
- All-Purpose Flour: The base for soft, pillowy rolls.
- Yeast: Helps the dough rise and gives the rolls their airy texture.
- Sugar: Just a touch to balance the flavors and help activate the yeast.
- Salt: Enhances the savory depth of the rolls.
- Butter: Adds richness and a tender texture.
- Caramelized Onions: The star ingredient, bringing deep, sweet-savory flavor.
- Beef Broth (Optional): Adds an extra layer of French onion soup-inspired richness.
- Egg: Helps bind the dough and gives the rolls a golden crust.
- Cheese (Gruyère or Swiss): A melty topping that takes these rolls over the top.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Caramelize the Onions
Sauté the Onions: In a skillet over medium-low heat, melt butter and add sliced onions. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden and caramelized (about 30-40 minutes). Add a splash of beef broth for extra depth, if desired. Let cool slightly before adding to the dough.
Make the Dough
Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and caramelized onions. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a soft dough forms.
Knead & Rise: Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
Shape & Bake
Shape the Rolls: Punch down the dough and divide into equal portions. Shape into rolls and place on a greased baking sheet. Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes.
Add Cheese & Bake: Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 18-22 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
Serve & Enjoy
Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with butter, or alongside your favorite soup or roast!
How to Serve French Onion Rolls
- With Soup: The ultimate pairing—try them with French onion soup or beef stew.
- As a Side: Serve with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or pasta dishes.
- For Sandwiches: Use them as buns for sliders or roast beef sandwiches.
- With Butter & Herbs: A simple smear of butter with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary makes them irresistible.
Additional Tips
- Be Patient with the Onions: Slow-cooked onions develop the best flavor, so don’t rush the caramelization.
- Use Bread Flour for a Chewier Texture: If you prefer a slightly chewier roll, swap all-purpose flour for bread flour.
- Make-Ahead Dough: The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping.
- Storage Tips: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
A1: Yes! If using instant yeast, you can mix it directly into the dry ingredients—no need to activate it in water first.
Q2: How do I store leftover rolls?
A2: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Q3: Can I freeze these rolls?
A3: Absolutely! Freeze baked rolls in an airtight bag for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Q4: What cheese works best?
A4: Gruyère, Swiss, or even Parmesan work beautifully. For a more intense flavor, try aged cheddar.
Q5: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A5: Yes! After the first rise, refrigerate the dough overnight and continue the next day.
Q6: How do I make them extra fluffy?
A6: Let the dough rise fully and avoid over-kneading. A second rise before baking also helps.
Q7: Can I add garlic or herbs?
A7: Absolutely! A little garlic or thyme mixed into the dough adds extra flavor.
Q8: Why didn’t my dough rise?
A8: Check your yeast—it may be expired. Also, ensure your water is warm but not too hot (around 110°F).
Q9: Can I make mini versions?
A9: Yes! Just shape smaller rolls and reduce baking time slightly.
Q10: What’s the best way to reheat these rolls?
A10: Warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Final Thoughts
These French Onion Rolls are everything you love about classic French onion soup wrapped into a warm, fluffy roll. The deep, caramelized flavors, the gooey cheese, and the soft, pillowy texture make them absolutely irresistible. Try them for your next dinner or gathering—you won’t be disappointed!
Print
French Onion Rolls
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Category: Bread, Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These French Onion Rolls are soft, fluffy, and packed with rich caramelized onion flavor, making them perfect for sandwiches, burgers, or as a side for soups and stews. Infused with the deep umami of caramelized onions and a hint of cheese, these rolls are a delicious twist on classic dinner rolls. Whether you’re looking for healthy homemade recipes or quick dinner ideas, these rolls are an excellent addition to your meal.
Ingredients
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup caramelized onions (from above)
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 egg yolk + 1 tablespoon water (egg wash)
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
Instructions
-
Caramelize the Onions:
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add sliced onions and salt, stirring occasionally until golden and caramelized (about 20-25 minutes).
- Stir in balsamic vinegar for extra depth. Set aside to cool.
-
Make the Dough:
- In a bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Add melted butter, egg, salt, and half of the flour. Mix until combined.
- Stir in caramelized onions, cheese (if using), and remaining flour. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
- Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
-
Shape the Rolls:
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape into rolls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
-
Bake:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush rolls with egg wash, sprinkle with cheese and thyme.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Serve warm with butter or use for sandwiches.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze rolls after baking for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg