Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious addition to your meals, this Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe is just what you need! There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen. This recipe has become a staple in my home, whether we’re enjoying it with a warm bowl of soup or using it to soak up the last drops of a savory sauce during family dinners. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, bringing everyone together around the table.

What makes this focaccia truly special is its delightful texture—crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The use of simple ingredients like olive oil and fresh rosemary elevates it from ordinary to extraordinary. Once you take that first bite, I promise you’ll understand why this recipe has a permanent place in my heart (and my recipe book!).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Make: With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll be baking like a pro in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves warm bread! It’s perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a base for sandwiches.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of olive oil and rosemary gives this focaccia a taste that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the first step to making this delightful focaccia bread. You may already have many of these items in your pantry!

For the Dough

• 4 cups (500g) bread flour or all-purpose flour
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast or instant yeast
• 2 teaspoons (10g) salt
• 1 3/4 cups (415ml) warm water
• 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling

For Topping

• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves
• Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)

Variations

One of the best parts about making focaccia is how flexible this recipe can be! Feel free to get creative and make it your own.

• Add Garlic: Mix in minced garlic with the dough for an aromatic twist.
• Incorporate Olives: Toss in some chopped olives to add a briny flavor that pairs beautifully.
• Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top before baking for a cheesy crust.
• Herb Infusion: Swap out rosemary for other herbs like thyme or oregano to change things up!

How to Make Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Dough

Start by combining the warm water and yeast in a large mixing bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it gets foamy. This step is essential because it activates the yeast, ensuring your bread rises beautifully. Next, add the flour and salt into the bowl. Mix everything until a sticky dough forms.

Step 2: Knead and Rise

Transfer your dough onto a floured surface and knead it gently for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth. Don’t worry if it feels sticky at first; that’s normal! Once kneaded, place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1.5 hours until doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape Your Focaccia

After your dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any air bubbles. Lightly oil your baking pan and spread the dough into an even layer. Use your fingers to create dimples all over the surface—this not only looks great but helps hold onto those wonderful toppings later!

Step 4: Add Toppings

Drizzle some extra virgin olive oil over the top of your dough, then sprinkle with fresh rosemary leaves and coarse sea salt. These toppings add flavor and make every bite unforgettable!

Step 5: Bake Your Focaccia

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake your focaccia for about 25 minutes or until golden brown. The smell will be heavenly! Once done, let it cool slightly before slicing into glorious pieces that are ready to enjoy.

And there you have it! Your very own Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe that’s sure to impress friends and family alike. Enjoy every crumb!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe

Making focaccia bread at home is a delightful experience, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate your baking game!

• Use warm water: Ensuring your water is warm but not hot helps activate the yeast effectively, leading to a better rise and fluffier texture.
• Don’t rush the rising time: Allowing the dough to rise for the full duration is crucial. It develops flavor and gives your focaccia that airy quality we all love.
• Generously oil the pan: A well-oiled pan not only prevents sticking but also contributes to that wonderful crispiness on the bottom of your focaccia.
• Dimple before baking: Use your fingers to create dimples in the dough before baking. This not only adds an appealing texture but also helps hold onto any toppings or seasonings you add.
• Experiment with toppings: While rosemary is traditional, feel free to get creative! Try adding sliced olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even caramelized onions for added flavor.

How to Serve Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe

Presenting your freshly baked focaccia bread can be as enjoyable as making it! This versatile bread can be served in various ways, making it perfect for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top after baking for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
• Balsamic glaze: Drizzle some balsamic glaze on top just before serving for a tangy sweetness that complements the bread beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with focaccia, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots add a hearty side that’s both nutritious and delicious alongside your focaccia.
• Hummus or Dips: Serve with a side of hummus or any creamy dip. The soft bread is perfect for scooping up flavorsome dips!
• Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup or minestrone makes for a comforting meal when served alongside focaccia. It’s perfect for dipping!

With these suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy your homemade focaccia bread in style! Whether it’s an appetizer during dinner or part of a cozy meal at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This easy focaccia bread recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh, homemade bread throughout the week. Whether you’re planning a gathering or just want a tasty side for your meals, this recipe is versatile and can be stored or frozen for later use.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the focaccia to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the focaccia into portions before freezing for convenience.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the slices on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. For that perfect crispy crust, remove the foil during the last few minutes.

FAQs

Have some questions about making your own focaccia? You’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

What makes this Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe special?

This easy focaccia bread recipe is special because it combines simple ingredients and straightforward steps to produce authentic Italian flatbread that’s both crispy and soft. It’s ideal for any occasion as an appetizer or side dish.

Can I customize my Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe with toppings?

Absolutely! This easy focaccia bread recipe serves as a wonderful base for various toppings. You can add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, or even cheese before baking to create your perfect flavor profile.

How long does it take to make this Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe?

The total time for this easy focaccia bread recipe is approximately 2 hours and 55 minutes, which includes 2.5 hours of rising time and 25 minutes of baking.

Can I use whole wheat flour in this Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe?

Yes! You can substitute some of the bread flour with whole wheat flour in this easy focaccia bread recipe. Just keep in mind it may alter the texture slightly, making it denser but still delicious!

Final Thoughts

I’m so excited for you to try this easy focaccia bread recipe! It’s not just about making bread; it’s about creating something special that brings warmth to your kitchen and joy to your table. I hope you enjoy every step of the process and savor every bite of this delightful focaccia. Happy baking!