This recipe was brought to us by Cheryl Odden, from the original recipe by Sandhya Ramakrishnan of My Cooking Journey.
If you love savory, aromatic bread, this Onion and Poppy Seed Pletzel is a must-bake! Cheryl is known for her outstanding bakes, and this one is particularly delicious, simple, and packed with flavor.
Pletzel, often referred to as onion bread board, is a traditional Jewish flatbread that combines a chewy, golden crust with sweet, caramelized onions and crunchy poppy seeds. It’s perfect as a snack, side, or even a base for creative toppings!
🔥 Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
✔️ Easy to Make – No complicated techniques.
✔️ Incredibly Flavorful – Sweet onions + nutty poppy seeds = perfection.
✔️ Great for Any Occasion – Serve it warm with butter, cream cheese, or as a side to soups and salads.
📝 Onion and Poppy Seed Pletzel Recipe
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups (300g) bread flour
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 cup (240ml) warm water (adjust as needed)
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
For the Topping:
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
🍞 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Dough
- In a small bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it proof for 10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl (or stand mixer), combine flour, salt, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Add the yeast mixture and knead for 7-8 minutes until soft and elastic.
- Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 ½ hours, or until doubled.
2️⃣ Prepare the Onion Topping
- Heat a cast iron pan (or regular pan) with oil over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions and salt, sauté until soft, then reduce heat and cook until light golden brown.
- Let cool—don’t overcook, as they will continue cooking in the oven!
3️⃣ Shape & Bake
- Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down.
- Grease a baking tray, place the dough inside, and spread it evenly. Let it rest 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Dimple the dough with your fingers, then spread the caramelized onions evenly. Sprinkle poppy seeds on top.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
- Let cool slightly, then slice and enjoy! 😍
💡 Pro Tips:
✔️ Want a crispier crust? Bake 5 extra minutes.
✔️ No poppy seeds? Swap for sesame seeds!
✔️ Best served warm with butter, cream cheese, or as a snack.
🛠️ Equipment You’ll Need:
✅ Measuring cups & spoons
✅ Mixing bowl / stand mixer (optional)
✅ Cast iron or regular pan
✅ Baking tray
✅ Oven
📸 Recipe Image & Credit
Alt Text: Golden-brown Onion and Poppy Seed Pletzel, sliced to show its airy crumb, topped with caramelized onions and poppy seeds, served on a wooden board.
🎉 A big thank you to Cheryl Odden for sharing this amazing recipe! Whether you’re new to bread baking or an experienced baker, this Onion and Poppy Seed Pletzel is a must-try.
📸 If you bake this, share your photos in the comments! Let’s see those golden, onion-packed loaves! 🔥🍞
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