Easy Focaccia Recipe

Focaccia is one of those magical breads that seem to elevate any meal, and the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! With a golden crust, a soft and airy interior, and a deliciously fragrant topping, this Easy Focaccia Recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Perfect for dipping in olive oil, serving alongside soup, or enjoying as a sandwich, this bread is as versatile as it is delightful. Ready to impress your family and friends with your baking skills? Let’s dive right in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to love this Easy Focaccia Recipe! Here’s a quick rundown:

– **Simplicity**: With just a few ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you’ll have fresh focaccia in no time.
– **Customizable**: Add your favorite toppings, herbs, and spices to make it your own.
– **Delicious**: The combination of olive oil, herbs, and garlic creates an irresistible flavor profile.
– **Great for Sharing**: Focaccia is perfect for gatherings, making it a wonderful addition to any table.

Gather These Ingredients

To create this delightful Easy Focaccia Recipe, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients:

• 6 tablespoons olive oil (divided for dough and topping)
• 2-1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
• 2-1/4 teaspoons instant yeast or active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon honey (to help the yeast bloom)
• 5 cups all-purpose flour (for the perfect texture)
• 1 tablespoon salt (to enhance flavor)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (for brushing on top)
• Flaky sea salt (for topping, optional)
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic (for aromatic flavor)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary or 1 teaspoon dried
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper (for a hint of spice)

Recommended Tools

Before you start baking, make sure you have these essential tools on hand:

• Mixing Bowl: For combining your dough ingredients.
• Whisk: To mix the yeast, water, and honey thoroughly.
• Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring the dough together.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Baking Sheet: To shape and bake your focaccia.
• Plastic Wrap or Towel: For covering the dough while it rises.
• Oven Mitts: To protect your hands when handling hot pans.

Mastering Easy Focaccia Recipe: How-To

Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s get started on this Easy Focaccia Recipe! Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, honey, and yeast. Give it a gentle stir and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This step ensures that your yeast is active and ready to make your bread rise.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

Once the yeast is activated, add 3 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and flour to the mixture. Using a wooden spoon, stir until the dough begins to come together. It should be a bit sticky but manageable.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.

Step 4: First Rise

Grease a large bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and place the dough inside. Turn it to coat in the oil, then cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or drizzle it with olive oil. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Transfer it to the prepared baking sheet and stretch it out to fit, creating dimples with your fingers.

Step 6: Add Toppings

In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, pepper, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Brush this mixture all over the surface of the dough. If desired, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for an extra crunch.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the dough again and let it rise for another 20-30 minutes. This step will create a lovely airy texture in your focaccia.

Step 8: Bake

Bake the focaccia in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and has a lovely aroma.

Step 9: Brush with Butter

Once out of the oven, melt the unsalted butter and brush it over the top of the warm focaccia for added richness and flavor.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Allow the focaccia to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once cooled slightly, slice and serve warm. Enjoy with olive oil or your favorite dip!

Better-for-You Options

If you’re looking for some healthier alternatives or variations to this Easy Focaccia Recipe, consider these options:

• Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.
• Herb Variations: Use other fresh herbs like basil or oregano to change up the flavor profile.
• Olive Oil Substitute: Try avocado oil for a different taste while keeping it healthy.
• Low-Sodium Option: Reduce the salt in the dough if you’re watching your sodium intake.

Behind the Recipe

This Easy Focaccia Recipe is inspired by traditional Italian methods of bread-making but simplified for home bakers everywhere. The use of instant yeast allows for quicker rising times, making this recipe accessible even for novice bakers. The addition of fresh herbs and garlic not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful aromatic element that fills your kitchen. It’s a recipe that invites creativity, so feel free to experiment with your favorite toppings!

Storage & Reheat Guide

To keep your focaccia fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

• Room Temperature
• Refrigeration: If you live in a humid climate, you can refrigerate the focaccia for up to a week. Just make sure to wrap it tightly.
• Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes! Using bread flour will give your focaccia a slightly chewier texture, which can be quite delightful.

What can I serve with focaccia?

Focaccia pairs wonderfully with olive oil for dipping, balsamic vinegar, soups, salads, or as a base for sandwiches.

Can I make this dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight during the first rise. Just let it come to room temperature before proceeding with the recipe.

How can I make my focaccia extra flavorful?

Consider adding toppings like sliced olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even cheese before baking to amp up the flavor profile!

Next Steps

Now that you’ve mastered this Easy Focaccia Recipe, it’s time to get baking! This bread is not only easy to make but also a wonderful way to impress your guests or enjoy a cozy night in. Don’t forget to play around with your favorite herbs and toppings to create your signature focaccia. After your first successful bake, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and time again. Happy baking!

Easy Focaccia Recipe

This Easy Focaccia Recipe is SO SIMPLE! With a golden crust and an airy interior, it's perfect for any meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Bread

Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 6 tablespoons olive oil (divided for dough and topping)
• 2.5 cups warm water (about 110°F)
• 2.25 teaspoons instant yeast or active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon honey (to help the yeast bloom)
• 5 cups all-purpose flour (for the perfect texture)
• 1 tablespoon salt (to enhance flavor)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (for brushing on top)
• Flaky sea salt (for topping, optional)
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic (for aromatic flavor)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary or 1 teaspoon dried
• 0.25 teaspoon pepper (for a hint of spice)

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Plastic Wrap or Towel
• Oven mitts

Method

 

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, honey, and yeast. Give it a gentle stir and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
2. Once the yeast is activated, add 3 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and flour to the mixture. Using a wooden spoon, stir until the dough begins to come together.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
4. Grease a large bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and place the dough inside. Cover the bowl and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or drizzle it with olive oil. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet.
6. In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, pepper, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Brush this mixture all over the surface of the dough.
7. Cover the dough again and let it rise for another 20-30 minutes.
8. Bake the focaccia in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and has a lovely aroma.
9. Once out of the oven, melt the unsalted butter and brush it over the top of the warm focaccia.
10. Allow the focaccia to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Slice and serve warm.

Notes

• Let the dough rise in a warm spot for the best results.
• Experiment with different herbs and toppings to customize your focaccia.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.