Normandy-Style French Onion Soup

In a medium pot set over medium high heat, melt 3 tablespoons butter. When the foam begins to subside, add the onions and cook, stirring frequently, until golden, 35–40 minutes. Tie the parsley, thyme, bay leaf, and rosemary into a bundle with kitchen twine and add to the pan along with 1⁄2 cup plus 2 tablespoons cider. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat to maintain a simmer, and cook until the alcohol evaporates, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

In a second medium pot set over medium heat, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter. When the foam begins to subside, add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, until the roux is just slightly toasty, about 2 minutes. Slowly pour in the stock, whisking constantly, then bring to a full boil. Lower the heat to maintain a simmer and cook until thickened, about 15 minutes. Scrape the reserved onion-and-cider mixture into the stock and cook until slightly reduced, about 15 minutes. Remove and discard the herb bundle, then season the soup to taste with salt and black pepper.

Meanwhile, heat the broiler. Place the baguette slices onto a small baking sheet and broil, flipping once, until lightly golden and toasted all over, about 2 minutes. Divide the remaining cider between two heatproof bowls. Ladle the soup into the bowls, then top each bowl with the toasted baguette slices. Place the bowls of soup on the baking sheet and sprinkle with the Gruyère. Drizzle the cream over the cheese, then transfer to the oven and broil until the cheese is golden and bubbling, about 2 minutes. Serve immediately.