Cheddar-Onion Bread

When you want something a little fancier and flavorful, here's an easy one to do when you are already making a batch of bread (and of course it will freeze for use on a busy day in the future).

Chop a large onion and cook it slowly in a little butter while making bread dough until golden and sweet.

Make your usual or favorite whole wheat bread dough (here's my recipe) and after the first rising, save out a portion - a large loaf's worth.After shaping any other loaves, take the reserved piece and knead in the onion and about 1 1/2 cups finely grated sharp or extra sharp cheddar (or other favoirte cheese). Let it rest 10-15 minutes.

Divide into three portions and roll each into a long snake, maybe about 14 inches. Braid them together and form into a circle in a greased 10" glass pie plate (or on a baking sheet). Let rise 30 minutes, put in cold oven on a slightly  lowered rack and bake at 325 for 30 minutes or until browned.
You can brush it with water before baking to help it get crusty.

This bread is great with broccoli soup, easy vegetable soup, etc.