Homemade onion rolls can make dinner at home feel even more special. They’re perfectly served with hamburgers, shredded chicken, or even roast beef.
Why Should You Try Making Your Own?
Initially, I often bought onion rolls from bakeries or supermarkets. But after discovering how easy it is to make them myself, they’re so much more satisfying! Besides being more economical, the aroma of homemade onions is completely different—fresher and mouth-watering!
The onion flavor spreads throughout the bread, but my favorite part is still the crispy onions on top. Crispy and savory—it’s hard to stop eating.
Easy Steps to Make Onion Rolls
Don’t worry, you don’t need to be a baking expert to make these. Just follow these steps:
- Make the onion filling – Sauté the chopped onion until fragrant and slightly browned, then set aside.
- Mix the dough – Mix the flour, yeast, water, and other ingredients until smooth. Let it rise (about 1 hour).
- Add the onion filling – Once the dough has risen, flatten it and add the onion filling.
- Form the rolls – Roll the dough and shape it into small patties.
- Let it rest – Let the patties rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Bake – Place in a preheated oven at 170°C for about 20 minutes, or until the top is browned and fragrant.
What’s it good for?
- Burgers: The soft texture and onion flavor pair perfectly with juicy burger meat.
- Sandwiches: Fill with shredded chicken, roast beef, or shredded pork.
- Dinner: Serve with a hearty side dish like roast beef or soup.
Want a mini version? You can do that too! Or, if you prefer a whole loaf, roll the dough into a loaf pan and slice it once it’s cooked—perfect for grilled cheese sandwiches.
Tips for Beginners in Making Yeast Bread
Many people are afraid of making bread because of the yeast involved, but once you try, it’s actually quite easy! Start with a trusted recipe. I’ve learned a lot from the King Arthur Baking Company website, which has many yeast bread recipes for beginners.
This onion roll recipe was also inspired by King Arthur Flour’s Onion Rolls recipe, which was part of their community baking challenge in May 2014 with an onion theme.
📌 Reference: King Arthur Baking – Onion Rolls Recipe.
FAQs about Onion Rolls
Q: Can I use shallots or garlic instead of onions?
A: Yes, but the taste will be slightly different. Onions have a natural sweetness when sautéed, so they’re better suited to this bread filling. But if you’re feeling experimental, feel free to try!
Q: My dough isn’t rising. Why is that?
A: The yeast may have died, or the water is too hot. Use lukewarm water (around 37–40°C) and make sure the yeast is still active (check the expiration date).
Q: Can I make the dough the day before?
A: Yes! After the dough has risen for the first time, store it in a covered container in the refrigerator overnight. The next day, take it out, let it rest at room temperature for a while, and then continue shaping the rolls.
Q: Can I bake onion rolls without an oven?
A: Yes, but the results won’t be exactly the same. You can try using a Teflon pan with a lid over low heat and baking for about 10–15 minutes per side. However, using an oven is still recommended for optimal results.
Q: My onion roll gets hard quickly after cooling. What’s the solution?
A: Store the bread in a tightly closed container or airtight plastic wrap. You can also wrap it in a clean cloth. To reheat, simply heat it briefly in the microwave or oven.
Q: Can these onion rolls be frozen?
A: Absolutely! Once cooked and cooled, store them in the freezer. When ready to eat, heat them in the oven or microwave. They’re perfect for breakfast or lunch!
Q: I want a more savory bread. Can I add toppings?
A: Absolutely! Sprinkle grated cheese or a few sesame seeds on top before baking for a richer flavor.
Check out more:
Conclusion
These onion rolls are delicious, fragrant, and super easy to make at home. They’re perfect for burgers, sandwiches, or even eaten warm. Once you try them, you’ll be hooked!
Good luck and happy baking!
Homemade Onion Rolls Recipe
Print RecipeIngredients
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm water (about 43°C / 110°F)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
For the Dough:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm water (about 43°C / 110°F)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 tsp salt
For the Onion Filling:
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp oil or butter (for sautéing)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1 tsp poppy seeds (for topping)
How to:
- Prepare the Onions. In a skillet, sauté chopped onions with oil or butter and a pinch of salt until soft and golden brown. Set aside to cool.
- Make the Dough. In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. Add flour, salt, and oil. Mix and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rise for 1 hour.
- Add the Onions. Gently flatten the dough and sprinkle most of the sautéed onions over it. Knead briefly to distribute onions through the dough.
- Shape the Rolls. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Shape into balls and place on a baking sheet. Press slightly to flatten. Top with the remaining onions and sprinkle poppy seeds if using.
- Second Rise. Cover loosely and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Bake. Bake in a preheated oven at 170°C / 340°F for 18–20 minutes, or until golden brown.
