Name: Authentic Traditional Homemade German Onion Pie
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; ½ teaspoon salt; 4 tablespoons cold water; 1 ½ pounds yellow onions, thinly sliced; 6 ounces thick-cut bacon, diced; 1 cup sour cream; 2 large eggs; ½ teaspoon caraway seeds (optional); 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Hey y'all! If you're looking for a dish that’s savory, comforting, and impressively flavorful, this Authentic Traditional Homemade German Onion Pie is your golden ticket. With its flaky crust, tender caramelized onions, rich creamy filling, and crispy bacon, this classic German dish (known as Zwiebelkuchen) is perfect for cozy fall evenings, Oktoberfest parties, brunches, or even weeknight dinners. Grab your apron and favorite rolling pin—let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Authentic Traditional Homemade German Onion Pie

Classic German comfort food that bursts with deep, savory flavors in every bite.
Easy to customize with vegetarian or gluten-free options to suit every guest.
Makes a wonderful appetizer, main, or potluck dish for any gathering.
Flaky, buttery pie crust pairs perfectly with the creamy, oniony interior.
Perfect make-ahead meal—tastes even better as leftovers!

Ingredients for Authentic Traditional Homemade German Onion Pie

1 ¼ cups (160g) all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon sea salt
8 tablespoon (110g) unsalted butter, chilled and diced
3-4 tablespoon ice water
4 large yellow onions (about 2 lbs/900g), thinly sliced
6 slices bacon or pancetta, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 large eggs
1 cup (240ml) crème fraîche or sour cream
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1 tablespoon caraway seeds (optional)
Chopped chives, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Directions: Authentic Traditional Homemade German Onion Pie

1. Prepare the Crust

In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add the cold butter and cut in with a pastry cutter or fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Sprinkle in ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, tossing until dough comes together.
Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Authentic Traditional Homemade German Onion Pie

2. Caramelize the Onions & Cook Bacon

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until just starting to crisp (about 5-6 minutes).
Reduce heat to medium-low, add onions, and cook, stirring often, until golden and very soft—about 25-30 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3. Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, crème fraîche (or sour cream), nutmeg, pepper, and salt. Stir in caraway seeds if using.

4. Assemble the Pie

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch (23cm) pie pan or tart dish.
Carefully transfer dough, pressing into the pan and trimming any overhang.
Spoon the onion-bacon mixture evenly over the crust.
Pour the creamy egg mixture overtop, smoothing to cover.

5. Bake

Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and top is lightly golden.
Cool for 15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chives (if desired) and serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes: Tips for the Best Authentic Traditional Homemade German Onion Pie

Let the onions caramelize slowly—their mellow sweetness is key to authentic flavor. Learn about caramelizing onions over on Serious Eats.
If you’re short on time, use a quality store-bought pie crust (but homemade yields extra flakiness!).

Variations on Authentic Traditional Homemade German Onion Pie

Vegetarian: Omit bacon and use smoked paprika for a smoky note.
Cheesy: Stir ½ cup grated Swiss or Gruyère cheese into the filling.
Gluten-Free: Substitute your favorite gluten-free pie crust.

Equipment You'll Need for Authentic Traditional Homemade German Onion Pie

Large skillet
Mixing bowls
Pastry cutter or food processor
Rolling pin
9-inch pie or tart pan
Whisk & spatula

Storage and Shelf Life for Authentic Traditional Homemade German Onion Pie

Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly and keep frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in a 325°F (165°C) oven until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings for German Onion Pie

Serve with a crisp green salad tossed in tangy vinaigrette.
Offer alongside a light German beer or Riesling wine for a classic touch.
Add a cup of homemade soup such as potato-leek soup for a hearty meal.

Pro Tips for Perfect Authentic Traditional Homemade German Onion Pie

For extra flavor, sprinkle the top with additional caraway seeds just before baking—more tips at Taste of Home.
Blind-bake the crust for 10 minutes if you prefer a super-crisp bottom.
Don't skip cooling; this allows the filling to set beautifully for neat slices.

FAQ: Authentic Traditional Homemade German Onion Pie

Can I make German Onion Pie ahead of time?: Absolutely! You can bake it a day ahead, refrigerate, and gently reheat before serving.
What onions are best for onion pie?: Yellow onions are traditional for their balance of sweetness and savoriness, but you can mix in sweet onions for milder flavor.
Can I freeze leftovers?: Yes! Slice and wrap tightly; freeze up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Enjoy your journey to authentic German flavor—prost!

Authentic Traditional Homemade German Onion Pie