Amish Onion Cake

Amish Onion Cake is a savory, comforting dish that’s perfect as a side for hearty meals or as a stand-alone snack. It’s made with tender, buttery layers of bread topped with sweet, caramelized onions and aromatic herbs. This cake has a rich and comforting flavor that’s sure to delight everyone at the dinner table. It’s easy to make, yet it has a homemade, rustic charm that brings warmth and comfort.

Table of Contents

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cooking Notes
• Variations
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 large onions (thinly sliced)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup of the butter.
2. Add the thinly sliced onions and sprinkle with sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized, about 20 minutes. They should be golden and soft.
3. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme until well combined.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and sour cream until smooth.
3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the flour mixture, mixing until just combined. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick.

Step 4: Assemble the Onion Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
2. Spoon the caramelized onions over the top of the batter, spreading them out to cover the entire surface.
3. Melt the remaining 1/4 cup of butter and drizzle it evenly over the onions.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Let the cake cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Cooking Notes

• Caramelizing Onions: Take your time with caramelizing the onions, as this process brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to the dish. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
• Butter: Use good quality butter for the best flavor. The buttery richness is a key part of this recipe.
• Serving: This onion cake is best served warm but can be enjoyed at room temperature as well.

Variations

Cheese Onion Cake

• Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar or Gruyere cheese over the onions before baking for a rich, cheesy addition that pairs perfectly with the sweet onions.

Herb Onion Cake

• Add 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary or oregano to the batter for an extra herbaceous flavor that complements the caramelized onions beautifully.

Bacon Onion Cake

• Stir in 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon into the batter before pouring it into the baking dish for a smoky, savory twist that pairs wonderfully with the onions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Onion Cake Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can make this onion cake ahead of time and store it at room temperature for up to 1 day. To reheat, place it in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover onion cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through.

Can I Use Different Types of Onions?

Absolutely! You can use yellow, white, or even red onions for this recipe. Each type will add a slightly different flavor profile—yellow onions are sweet, while red onions will add a bit more color and a milder flavor.

Amish Onion Cake is a rustic, comforting dish that brings together the sweetness of caramelized onions and the richness of a buttery cake. Whether you serve it as a side dish for a hearty meal or enjoy it on its own, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Customize it with cheese, herbs, or bacon to make it your own, and enjoy the warmth and comfort of this traditional recipe.

Happy cooking, and enjoy every savory bite of this delicious Amish Onion Cake!