Focaccia Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This homemade focaccia recipe is straightforward and rewarding. With minimal ingredients—flour, yeast, salt, water, and olive oil—you can create a bread that’s both crispy and soft. The addition of fresh rosemary and a sprinkle of sea salt elevate its flavor, making it a hit at any meal. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, this recipe’s clear steps and helpful tips ensure success.

Ingredients

• 4 cups (500g) bread flour or all-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast or instant yeast
• 2 teaspoons (10g) salt
• 1 ¾ cups (415ml) warm water
• ¼ cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves
• Coarse sea salt for sprinkling

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Mixing and Kneading the Dough:

   • In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and yeast.
   • Add the warm water and olive oil.
   • Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

2. First Rise:

   • Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

3. Shaping and Dimpling the Focaccia:

   • Grease a baking sheet with olive oil.
   • Gently stretch the dough to fit the pan.
   • Use your fingertips to create dimples all over the surface.

4. Second Rise:

   • Cover the dough and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.

5. Topping and Baking:

   • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
   • Drizzle the dough with extra olive oil, sprinkle with fresh rosemary leaves and coarse sea salt.
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown.
   • Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
• Preparation Time: About 2.5 hours (including rising times).
• Baking Time: 25 minutes.

Variations

• Mediterranean-Inspired: Top with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
• Sweet Variation: Add grapes, a drizzle of honey, and a sprinkle of thyme for a sweet version.
• Stuffed Focaccia: Before baking, fill the dough with prosciutto and mozzarella for a hearty option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 5-10 minutes to restore crispiness.

FAQs

What is focaccia?

Focaccia is a traditional Italian flatbread known for its airy texture and rich olive oil flavor.

Can I make focaccia without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can knead the dough by hand on a lightly floured surface for about 10-15 minutes.

Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Yes, prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.

My focaccia didn’t rise well. What went wrong?

This could be due to old yeast, water that’s too hot (which can kill the yeast), or insufficient rising time. Ensure your yeast is fresh and your water is warm, not hot.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, but the texture will be denser. You might consider using a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for better results.

How do I know when the focaccia is done baking?

The focaccia should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Can I freeze focaccia?

Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat before serving.

What other herbs can I use besides rosemary?

Thyme, oregano, or sage are great alternatives. You can also experiment with a mix of herbs.

Why is olive oil important in focaccia?

Olive oil adds flavor, moisture, and helps create the characteristic crispy crust of focaccia.

Can I add cheese to my focaccia?

Yes, adding cheese like Parmesan or mozzarella can enhance the flavor. Sprinkle it on top before baking.

Conclusion

Baking homemade focaccia is a delightful experience that brings the flavors of Italy into your kitchen. With its crispy crust, soft interior, and customizable toppings, this bread is sure to become a favorite. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or reheFocaccia Bread

Focaccia Bread

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This homemade focaccia is a classic Italian flatbread with a crispy crust, airy interior, and rich olive oil flavor. Infused with rosemary and sea salt, it’s perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or sandwich base. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is great for beginners and experienced bakers alike.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including rise times)
• Cook Time: 25min
• Total Time: 3hours
• Yield: 8servings
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 4 cups (500g) bread flour or all-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast or instant yeast
• 2 teaspoons (10g) salt
• 1 ¾ cups (415ml) warm water
• ¼ cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves
• Coarse sea salt for sprinkling

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Instructions

1. Mix and Knead the Dough:

• In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and yeast.
• Add warm water and olive oil.
• Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

2. First Rise:

• Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours, or until doubled.

3. Shape and Dimple the Dough:

• Grease a baking sheet with olive oil.
• Stretch dough to fit the pan.
• Use fingertips to create dimples on the surface.

4. Second Rise:

• Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes.

5. Top and Bake:

• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with rosemary and sea salt.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown.

6. Cool and Serve:

• Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

• For best texture, use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour.
• Make-ahead option: Let the dough rise overnight in the fridge and bring to room temperature before baking.
• Storage: Keep at room temperature for 2 days in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 5-10 minutes.