Homemade Chive Onion Bread – Soft, Savory & Delicious!

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There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread, and this Chive Onion Bread takes it to the next level with its savory, herb-infused flavor.

Soft and fluffy on the inside with a lightly golden crust, this bread is packed with the delicate bite of chives and the natural sweetness of caramelized onions.

Perfect as a side for soups and stews, toasted with butter for breakfast, or used to make gourmet sandwiches, this bread is as versatile as it is delicious.

The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make!

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner looking to try something new, this recipe will guide you step by step to create a bakery-worthy loaf at home.

Ingredients Needed for Chive Onion Bread

Essential Ingredients for the Dough

  • All-purpose flour – Provides the perfect balance of softness and structure.
  • Active dry yeast – Helps the bread rise and become light and fluffy.
  • Warm water – Activates the yeast for a good rise.
  • Granulated sugar – A small amount to feed the yeast and enhance flavor.
  • Salt – Balances the flavors and strengthens the dough structure.

Flavor-Boosting Ingredients

  • Fresh chives – Adds a mild onion-like flavor with a hint of freshness.
  • Yellow onion – Sautéed to bring out its natural sweetness.
  • Olive oil or butter – Gives the bread a rich, tender texture and enhances flavor.

Optional Add-Ins

  • Garlic – Finely minced or roasted for extra depth.
  • Parmesan or cheddar cheese – For a richer, more indulgent loaf.
  • Black pepper or red pepper flakes – Adds a slight kick for spice lovers.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Chive Onion Bread

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  • In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast.
  • Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This ensures the yeast is active.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

  • Heat a pan over medium heat and add a little olive oil or butter.
  • Add the chopped onions and cook until soft and slightly golden.
  • Remove from heat and let them cool before adding to the dough.

Step 3: Prepare the Dough

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
  • Pour in the activated yeast mixture and mix until a rough dough forms.
  • Knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 4: Incorporate the Chives and Onions

  • Gently fold the sautéed onions and chopped chives into the dough.
  • Knead for another 2 minutes to evenly distribute the flavors.

Step 5: First Rise

  • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

  • Once risen, punch down the dough to release excess air.
  • Shape it into a loaf or divide it into rolls, depending on your preference.
  • Place it in a greased baking pan or on a lined baking sheet.

Step 7: Second Rise

  • Cover the shaped dough and let it rise again for 30–40 minutes.
  • This helps create a lighter, airier texture.

Step 8: Bake the Bread

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Brush the top of the dough with olive oil or melted butter for a golden crust.
  • Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

Step 9: Cool & Serve

  • Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
  • Serve warm with butter or enjoy as a base for sandwiches and toast!

Storage & Reheating Tips

How to Store Chive Onion Bread

Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container or a bread box for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Avoid refrigeration, as it can dry out the bread.

Refrigeration (If Necessary): If you live in a humid climate, you can refrigerate the bread in an airtight container for up to 5 days, but let it come to room temperature before serving.

Freezing: To keep it fresh for longer, wrap the loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.

It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat Chive Onion Bread

  • Oven Method (Best for Whole Loaves): Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the bread in foil and warm it for 10–15 minutes until soft and warm.
  • Toaster or Skillet (For Slices): Toast individual slices in a toaster or on a skillet over medium heat for 1–2 minutes per side.
  • Microwave (Quickest Method): Wrap a slice in a damp paper towel and microwave for 10–15 seconds to restore softness.

Conclusion – Enjoy the Perfect Homemade Chive Onion Bread!

With its soft, fluffy texture and the delicious blend of fresh chives and caramelized onions, Chive Onion Bread is a must-try for bread lovers.

Whether you enjoy it warm with butter, as a side for soups and stews, or as a base for gourmet sandwiches, this bread adds a touch of homemade comfort to any meal.

Baking bread at home may seem intimidating at first, but with this simple step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to achieve bakery-quality results every time.

So, grab your ingredients, fire up your oven, and enjoy the rich aroma of freshly baked chive onion bread filling your kitchen!

Happy baking!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dried chives instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh chives provide the best flavor.

If using dried chives, reduce the amount to one-third of the fresh amount since dried herbs have a more concentrated taste.

2. What type of onion works best for this bread?

Yellow onions are ideal because they have a balance of sweetness and savoriness.

However, you can also use red onions for a slightly bolder flavor or shallots for a milder taste.

3. Can I make this bread without yeast?

Yes! You can make a quick bread version using baking powder instead of yeast.

However, the texture will be denser and more like a biscuit rather than a fluffy loaf.

4. How do I make this bread extra soft?

For a softer crumb, add 1–2 tablespoons of milk or yogurt to the dough.

Also, make sure not to overbake, as longer baking times can make the bread dry.

5. Can I add cheese to this bread?

Absolutely! Adding grated cheddar, parmesan, or mozzarella to the dough or as a topping before baking will enhance the flavor and give it a rich, cheesy finish.

Chive Onion Bread

Maria G. Brooks
Chive Onion Bread is a flavorful homemade bread infused with the mild, onion-like taste of fresh chives and the sweetness of sautéed onions.
Soft, fluffy, and golden brown on the outside, this bread is perfect for toasting, making sandwiches, or serving as a side dish.
With simple ingredients and an easy step-by-step process, this recipe is ideal for both beginner and experienced bakers.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Bread, Side Dish
Cuisine American, European
Servings 10 slices
Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large mixing bowl
  • 1 Small bowl (for activating yeast)
  • 1 Skillet or pan (for sautéing onions)
  • 1 measuring cup
  • 1 Measuring Spoon Set
  • 1 Wooden Spoon or Dough Whisk
  • 1 Dough scraper (optional)
  • 1 Loaf pan or baking sheet
  • 1 Kitchen towel or plastic wrap (for covering dough)
  • 1 Cooling Rack

Ingredients
  

For the Dough

  • 3 ½ cups 440g all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
  • 1 cup 240ml warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
  • 1 tbsp 12g granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp 5g salt
  • 2 tbsp 30ml olive oil

For the Flavor

  • ½ cup 60g chopped fresh chives
  • 1 medium 100g yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp 15g butter or olive oil (for sautéing onions)

Optional Add-Ins

  • ½ tsp 2g garlic powder or 1 minced garlic clove
  • ¼ cup 30g shredded parmesan or cheddar cheese
  • ½ tsp 2g black pepper or red pepper flakes (for spice)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  • In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

  • Heat 1 tbsp butter or olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Add chopped onions and cook until soft and lightly golden brown. Remove from heat and let them cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Dough

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
  • Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil, stirring until a rough dough forms.
  • Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

Step 4: Incorporate Chives and Onions

  • Gently fold in chopped chives and sautéed onions, kneading for 2 minutes to distribute evenly.

Step 5: First Rise

  • Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

  • Punch down the dough to release air.
  • Shape into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan (or shape into rolls on a baking sheet).

Step 7: Second Rise

  • Cover and let the dough rise again for 30–40 minutes, until slightly puffed.

Step 8: Bake the Bread

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Brush the top of the dough with olive oil or melted butter.
  • Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

Step 9: Cool & Serve

  • Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes before slicing.
  • Serve warm or toasted with butter, soups, or sandwiches!

Notes

  • For a Softer Bread: Add 1–2 tbsp milk or yogurt to the dough for a richer texture.
  • For a Crunchier Crust: Bake on a preheated baking stone or place a pan of water in the oven to create steam.
  • Make it Dairy-Free: Use olive oil instead of butter for sautéing onions.
  • Storage Tip: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Keyword Chive Onion Bread