Focaccia

Making focaccia is easier than you think. With our recipe, you can create authentic Italian focaccia bread in as little as three hours. This delightful bread is perfect for various occasions, from casual dinners to festive gatherings. Enjoy its crisp and golden crust paired with a soft, airy crumb that will impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This focaccia recipe simplifies the bread-making process, making it accessible for all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: Infused with olive oil and optional herbs, this focaccia offers a rich, savory taste that complements any meal.
• Versatile Use: Enjoy it as a side dish, sandwich base, or simply with olive oil for dipping—perfect for any occasion!
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite herbs or toppings to make this focaccia truly your own.
• Satisfying Texture: The combination of a crispy crust and a fluffy interior makes each bite a delightful experience.

Tools and Preparation

To make delicious focaccia, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon
• Baking pan
• Whisk
• Damp cloth or plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily without spills.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for mixing sticky dough while providing good leverage when stirring.
• Baking pan: Ensures even cooking and provides enough space for the dough to rise comfortably.

Ingredients

Making focaccia is easier than you think. With our recipe you can make authentic Italian focaccia bread in as little as three hours. This recipe is tested by hundreds of you that follow us here and on social. It makes a focaccia with a crisp and golden crust and soft and airy crumb. Happy baking!

Ingredients:
– 1¾ cups lukewarm water
– 2 teaspoons instant dry yeast
– 2 teaspoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour)
– 3 teaspoons salt
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (+ 2 tablespoons to grease the baking pan or you can substitute parchment paper.)
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 3 tablespoons water
– ½ teaspoon salt (+ flaky salt optional)
– 3 pinches rosemary (optional to taste; fresh or dry.)

How to Make Focaccia

Step 1: Bloom the Yeast

1. Measure ingredients for the dough.
2. In a small bowl, combine lukewarm water, instant dry yeast, and sugar.
3. Whisk together and set aside for about 30 seconds until the yeast fully dissolves.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, stir together flour and salt.
2. Add the yeast-water mixture into the flour mixture.
3. Stir with a sturdy wooden spoon until you achieve a wet, sticky dough (about 1 minute).
4. Mix in extra virgin olive oil and stir for another minute until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Choose Proofing Method

Quick Proofing

1. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
2. Place it in a slightly warm oven for 1.5 to 2 hours until doubled in volume.

Slow Proofing

1. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap.
2. Allow it to mature slowly in the fridge for 8 to 24 hours.
3. When ready, remove from fridge and let sit at room temperature for another 2 to 3 hours.

Step 4: Folding

1. After proofing, fold the dough over itself about 20 to 40 times using a spoon from outside to inside while still in the bowl.
2. Stop once the dough feels tight.

Step 5: Final Proofing

1. Grease your baking pan with olive oil.
2. Drop the dough into the pan and spread it out using two spoons dipped in water.
3. Cover again with a damp cloth/plastic wrap and proof in a warm corner of your kitchen for about 45 minutes.

Step 6: Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix together extra virgin olive oil, water, and salt until dissolved.
2. Dip fingers into this mixture and press dimples across the top of the focaccia.
3. Pour any remaining oil-water mixture over it, letting it seep into dimples.
4. Optionally add rosemary pinches on top along with flaky salt.

Step 7: Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Once heated, place the focaccia on medium-low rack and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes.
3. Look for a golden brown color on top; let cool for at least five minutes before serving.

Enjoy your homemade focaccia!

How to Serve Focaccia

Focaccia is a versatile bread that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as a standalone snack, a side dish, or part of a meal, there are many delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As an Appetizer

• Dipping Oil: Serve warm focaccia with a mixture of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.
• Bruschetta: Top slices with fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella for a refreshing appetizer.
• Cheese Platter: Pair focaccia with a selection of cheeses for an elegant cheese board.

In Salads

• Panzanella Salad: Cube leftover focaccia and toss it with ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, and vinaigrette for a classic Italian salad.
• Caesar Salad: Use focaccia croutons to add a unique twist to the traditional Caesar salad.

As a Sandwich Base

• Focaccia Sandwich: Layer meats, cheeses, and veggies between slices of focaccia for a hearty sandwich.
• Panini Style: Grill focaccia with fillings like ham and cheese for a delicious panini.

With Soups

• Minestrone Soup: Serve alongside hearty minestrone soup for a comforting meal.
• Tomato Basil Soup: Enjoy warm focaccia dipped in creamy tomato basil soup.

How to Perfect Focaccia

Making perfect focaccia involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results every time.

• Bold Hydration: Ensure your dough is adequately hydrated; this results in a soft and airy texture.
• Bold Olive Oil Usage: Generously use olive oil during baking; it creates that signature crispy crust.
• Bold Proofing Time: Allow enough time for proofing; longer proofing develops better flavor and texture.
• Bold Dimpling Technique: Make deep dimples in the dough before baking; this helps hold toppings and olive oil.
• Bold Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven thoroughly; high temperatures result in great oven spring and crispiness.

Best Side Dishes for Focaccia

Focaccia pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some delightful options to complement your meal.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Charred seasonal vegetables add color and flavor alongside focaccia.
2. Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, olives, and pickled vegetables offers diverse flavors.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a refreshing contrast to the bread.
4. Roasted Garlic Butter Shrimp: Savory shrimp in garlic butter makes an indulgent pairing with focaccia.
5. Creamy Spinach Dip: This rich dip is perfect for scooping up with freshly baked focaccia.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers add substance next to the lightness of focaccia.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making focaccia can be straightforward, but there are a few common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Avoiding these will help you achieve the best bread possible.

• Using cold water: Ensure your water is lukewarm. Cold water can hinder yeast activation, leading to poor dough rise.
• Over-proofing the dough: Don’t let the dough sit too long during proofing. This can result in a sour taste and dense texture. Stick to the recommended times.
• Skipping the folding step: Folding helps develop gluten, which gives focaccia its structure. Neglecting this step may lead to a flat loaf.
• Not greasing the pan enough: Adequate oil in your baking pan prevents sticking. Be generous with olive oil or use parchment paper for easy removal.
• Ignoring baking time: Pay attention to your focaccia while it bakes. Oven temperatures vary, so check for golden-brown color and adjust cooking time accordingly.

Refrigerator Storage

• Focaccia can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• Use an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

Freezing Focaccia

• You can freeze focaccia for up to three months.
• Wrap it in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container for protection against freezer burn.

Reheating Focaccia

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat for 20-30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm each side of the focaccia for about 2-3 minutes until crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is focaccia?

Focaccia is an Italian flatbread known for its crisp crust and soft interior. It’s often topped with olive oil, herbs, and other ingredients.

How do I make my focaccia more flavorful?

Experiment with toppings like garlic, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or different herbs such as thyme or basil to enhance the flavor of your focaccia.

Can I make focaccia without yeast?

While traditional focaccia requires yeast for leavening, you might consider using baking powder as a substitute for a quick version, though the texture will differ.

How should I store leftover focaccia?

Store any leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate it if you plan to keep it longer.

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

Yes! You can substitute whole wheat flour; however, you may need to adjust the hydration level as whole wheat absorbs more water than all-purpose flour.

Final Thoughts

This homemade focaccia recipe brings the taste of Italy right into your kitchen. Its delightful texture and versatility make it perfect for sandwiches, appetizers, or simply enjoyed on its own. Feel free to get creative with toppings and flavors! Give this recipe a try—it’s sure to become a favorite among family and friends.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Homemade Focaccia

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Making focaccia is a delightful culinary adventure that brings the authentic taste of Italy to your kitchen. In just three hours, you can create a stunning loaf with a golden, crispy crust and a soft, airy interior. Perfect for any occasion—whether you’re enjoying a casual dinner or hosting a festive gathering—this versatile bread can be served as an appetizer, sandwich base, or simply enjoyed with olive oil for dipping. Customize it with your favorite herbs or toppings to make it uniquely yours. Get ready to impress family and friends with this easy-to-follow recipe!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1¾ cups lukewarm water
• 2 teaspoons instant dry yeast
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 teaspoons salt
• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided)
• 3 tablespoons water
• ½ teaspoon salt (optional flaky salt)
• 3 pinches rosemary (optional)

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Instructions

1. Bloom the yeast by mixing lukewarm water, yeast, and sugar in a bowl; let it sit for 30 seconds.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt; add the yeast mixture and stir until you have a sticky dough.
3. Mix in olive oil until fully incorporated.
4. For proofing, cover the bowl and choose either quick (1.5–2 hours) or slow (8–24 hours in fridge) methods.
5. After proofing, fold the dough multiple times until tight.
6. Grease a baking pan with olive oil, spread the dough into it, and let it rise again for about 45 minutes.
7. Dimple the dough with fingers and drizzle remaining olive oil-water mixture on top; optionally sprinkle rosemary and flaky salt.
8. Bake at 450°F (230°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (45g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 290mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg