Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for the perfect side dish or appetizer to impress your friends and family, this Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe is just what you need. There’s something wonderfully comforting about homemade bread, especially when it’s warm from the oven and drizzled with olive oil. This focaccia is not only easy to make but also versatile enough to suit any occasion—from busy weeknights to festive family gatherings.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a delicious flatbread that has a crispy exterior and a soft, airy interior. Plus, the tantalizing aroma of fresh rosemary will have everyone flocking to the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal hands-on time and mostly hands-off rising, this recipe fits effortlessly into your day.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids love to help with the dough, making it a fun family activity that brings everyone together.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake it fresh just before serving.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of olive oil and fresh rosemary creates an irresistible flavor that pairs beautifully with any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this easy focaccia bread, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry if you don’t have everything on hand; most of these items are kitchen staples!

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

Variations

One of the best things about focaccia is how flexible it is! Feel free to experiment and make it your own.

• Add Some Veggies: Toss in sliced olives, cherry tomatoes, or caramelized onions for an extra burst of flavor.
• Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top before baking for a melty treat that’s hard to resist.
• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for a touch of heat.
• Herb Infusion: Mix different herbs like thyme or oregano into the dough for a unique twist.

How to Make Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by mixing the warm water and yeast in a large bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it’s frothy. This step activates the yeast, which helps your dough rise beautifully.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Once mixed, add this dry mixture to your yeast blend along with the olive oil. Stir until everything comes together into a sticky dough. This is where the magic begins!

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Lightly flour your work surface and knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Kneading develops gluten, which gives your focaccia its lovely texture.

Step 4: First Rise

Place your dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1.5 hours or until it doubles in size. Patience is key here!

Step 5: Shape and Second Rise

Once risen, gently deflate the dough on a floured surface. Spread it out onto an oiled baking sheet, creating dimples with your fingers—this allows for those delicious pockets of flavor! Cover again and let it rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 6: Bake Your Focaccia

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Drizzle olive oil over the dough and sprinkle with coarse sea salt and rosemary leaves before popping it into the oven. Bake for about 25 minutes until golden brown—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Enjoy sharing this wonderful Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe with others; it’s sure to become a favorite at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe

Making focaccia bread can be incredibly rewarding, and with a few tips, you’ll be on your way to baking the perfect loaf!

• Use high-quality olive oil: A good extra virgin olive oil not only enhances the flavor of the focaccia but also helps create that beautiful golden crust. It’s worth investing in quality oil for this recipe.
• Don’t skimp on the rising time: Allowing the dough to rise adequately is key to achieving that light and airy texture. The longer it rises, the more flavor it develops, so be patient!
• Dimple the dough generously: When you press your fingers into the dough before baking, it creates little pockets that hold onto olive oil and toppings. This technique adds flavor and makes for an attractive presentation.
• Experiment with toppings: While rosemary is traditional, feel free to get creative! Try adding sliced olives, cherry tomatoes, or even caramelized onions for a unique twist.
• Serve warm for best results: Focaccia is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven or warmed up slightly. This ensures you experience that delightful soft interior and crispy crust.

How to Serve Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe

Focaccia bread is versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether as an appetizer or a side dish, there are countless options to elevate your dining experience!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkling additional fresh herbs like thyme or basil right before serving adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Flaky sea salt: A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving enhances the flavors beautifully and gives a lovely crunch.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette complements the richness of focaccia and adds a refreshing contrast.
• Vegetable Soup: Pairing focaccia with a warm vegetable soup creates a comforting meal. The bread is perfect for dipping!
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a hearty side that balances the carb-rich focaccia while adding vibrant colors to your plate.
• Hummus or Olive Tapenade: Serve alongside creamy hummus or zesty olive tapenade for a delicious dip option that pairs wonderfully with focaccia.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your easy focaccia bread will not only taste amazing but also look impressive on any table! Enjoy your baking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This easy focaccia bread recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to deepen and making your weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Wrap leftover focaccia in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, place it in an airtight container.

Freezing

• Allow the focaccia to cool completely after baking.
• Slice the bread into portions for easier thawing later.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Remove the focaccia from the freezer and unwrap it.
• Place it on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil to prevent browning.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. For extra crunch, remove the foil for the last few minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious focaccia bread recipe!

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour for this Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely use all-purpose flour! The texture might be slightly different, but it will still yield a delicious focaccia.

How can I customize my Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe?

Feel free to experiment with toppings! You can add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even different herbs like thyme or oregano. Get creative with your favorite flavors!

How do I know when my focaccia is done baking?

The focaccia should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Additionally, you can check that its internal temperature reaches about 200°F (93°C) for perfect doneness.

Can I make this Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the bread flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just make sure to follow any specific instructions related to yeast activation in gluten-free recipes.

What dishes pair well with focaccia bread?

Focaccia is fantastic served alongside soups, salads, or as a base for sandwiches. Its versatility makes it a delightful addition to any meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this easy focaccia bread recipe as much as I do! This delectable flatbread brings warmth and flavor to any table, whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in. Don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings or pairings—there’s no wrong way to enjoy this treat! Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with love and delicious aromas!