Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia

If you’re looking for a cozy recipe to warm up your kitchen this fall, you’ve come to the right place! This Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds. The aroma of thyme mingling with the rich, nutty flavor of gruyère cheese is simply irresistible. Perfect for family gatherings or even a busy weeknight dinner, this bread is sure to become a favorite at your table!

What I love most about this focaccia is its versatility. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or just enjoyed on its own with a drizzle of olive oil, it’s always a hit. Plus, it’s pretty simple to whip up even if you’re not an experienced baker!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few steps, you can create this delicious focaccia that looks like it came from a bakery.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love helping out in the kitchen, and they’ll enjoy munching on this tasty bread.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just an ordinary dinner, this focaccia fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake it fresh when you’re ready!
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of gruyère and thyme creates a comforting taste that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make our Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia. You’ll find that these items are easy to come by and perfect for creating something truly special!

For the Dough

• 6 1/4 cups bread flour
• 2 teaspoons instant dry yeast
• 2 cups warm water (105°F – 115°F or 40°C – 46°C)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 4 teaspoons fine sea salt

For Topping

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (plus more for greasing the sheet pan)
• 1/4 cup room temperature water
• 7 ounces gruyère cheese (sliced into small cubes)
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• 2 teaspoons Maldon sea salt flakes

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations you might like to try:

• Add Some Veggies: Toss in some roasted cherry tomatoes or caramelized onions for added flavor.
• Cheese Swap: Try using mozzarella or parmesan instead of gruyère if you prefer a different cheese experience.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary or oregano along with thyme for extra depth.
• Spice It Up: A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick to your focaccia.

How to Make Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by combining the warm water, sugar, and yeast in a large mixing bowl. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast and ensures your focaccia rises beautifully.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the bread flour and fine sea salt. Gradually add this mixture to the yeast mixture while mixing with your hands or a wooden spoon. This helps incorporate all ingredients evenly without overworking the dough.

Step 3: Knead Your Dough

Transfer your dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Kneading develops gluten which gives structure to your focaccia—this results in that lovely chewy texture we all adore!

Step 4: First Rise

Place your kneaded dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 2 hours or until doubled in size. Patience is key here; allowing it to rise properly will give you that fluffy focaccia we’re aiming for!

Step 5: Shape the Focaccia

Once your dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any air bubbles. Transfer it onto an oiled sheet pan (12 x 18 inches), stretching it out evenly with your fingers. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect; those nooks and crannies will create beautiful textures later.

Step 6: Add Toppings

Drizzle additional olive oil over the surface of the dough. Scatter those delightful gruyère cubes and fresh thyme leaves on top. Finally, sprinkle Maldon sea salt flakes generously over everything—this adds an amazing crunch and enhances flavor.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the pan with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes until puffy. This second rise allows our focaccia to develop even more airiness.

Step 8: Bake Your Focaccia

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once heated, bake your focaccia for about 50 minutes or until golden brown on top. The smell wafting through your home will have everyone gathering around!

Step 9: Cool & Serve

Let the focaccia cool slightly before slicing into pieces. It’s best enjoyed warm but also fantastic at room temperature! Serve alongside olive oil for dipping or as part of any meal.

And there you have it—your very own Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia

Baking focaccia can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll achieve a perfectly fluffy texture and incredible flavor!

• Use high-quality ingredients: The better the flour and olive oil, the more flavorful your focaccia will be. Quality ingredients ensure a deliciously rich taste and texture.

• Watch your water temperature: Ensuring that your water is at the right temperature (105°F – 115°F) activates the yeast properly. Too hot or too cold can hinder yeast growth, resulting in dense bread.

• Don’t rush the rise: Allowing your dough to rise for the full duration will enhance its flavor and texture. A slow rise develops gluten and creates that airy structure we love in focaccia.

• Experiment with toppings: While gruyère and thyme are fantastic, feel free to add other herbs, olives, or even roasted garlic to customize your focaccia. This creativity makes each batch unique!

• Preheat your baking surface: If possible, bake your focaccia on a preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. This provides an initial burst of heat that helps create a crispy crust.

How to Serve Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia

This Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia not only looks stunning but also tastes divine! Here are some ideas on how to present it beautifully at your next gathering or cozy dinner.

Garnishes

• Fresh thyme sprigs: A few sprigs of fresh thyme on top add a vibrant touch and enhance the herbaceous notes.
• Olive oil drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving lends richness and invites guests to dig in.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette balances the richness of the focaccia.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini provide color and complement the flavors of thyme beautifully.
• Creamy Tomato Soup: This classic pairing offers warmth and comfort, making every bite of focaccia even more satisfying.
• Marinated Olives: A small bowl of assorted marinated olives adds a savory touch that guests will love snacking on alongside the focaccia.

With these serving suggestions in mind, you’ll create an inviting atmosphere where your Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia shines as the star of the meal! Enjoy every moment as you gather around this delightful dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia is perfect for meal prep! You can bake it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week, making it a convenient addition to your meals.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the focaccia to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Slice the focaccia into desired pieces before freezing.
• Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, heat individual slices in a toaster oven for a few minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia without gluten?

Yes! You can substitute the bread flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for better texture.

How do I know when my Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia is done baking?

Your focaccia is ready when it’s golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. The internal temperature should reach about 200°F (93°C).

Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh thyme in this recipe?

Absolutely! If using dried thyme, reduce the amount to about one-third of what you would use with fresh thyme since dried herbs are more concentrated.

What can I serve with Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia?

This focaccia pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or as an appetizer with dips. It’s also great on its own as a snack!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia as much as I do! It’s not only delicious but also adds a cozy touch to any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it solo, I’m sure it will bring smiles all around. Happy baking, and don’t forget to come back and share how yours turned out!