Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe
This Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe brings the delightful flavors of Italy right into your kitchen. Perfect for any occasion, this versatile bread can be served as an appetizer, a side dish, or even enjoyed on its own. With its crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior, focaccia is truly a crowd-pleaser. The simplicity of the ingredients means you can whip it up with minimal effort, making it ideal for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation – With most of the time spent waiting for the dough to rise, you’ll find this recipe easy to fit into your day.
- Customizable Toppings – Add your favorite herbs or toppings like olives and sun-dried tomatoes to make it uniquely yours.
- Perfect for Sharing – Slice it up for gatherings or enjoy it fresh out of the oven with family at home.
- Authentic Flavor – Enjoy the richness of extra virgin olive oil and fresh rosemary that creates a true Italian taste.
- Beginner-Friendly – Even if you’re new to baking, you’ll find this focaccia bread recipe straightforward and fun.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your focaccia bread, gather all necessary tools and equipment. Having these items ready will streamline your baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Whisk
- Kitchen towel
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl – A spacious bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients without spilling.
- Baking sheet – Ensures even cooking and provides enough space for your focaccia to rise properly.
- Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze after baking.
Ingredients
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)
How to Make Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
Start by combining warm water and yeast in a mixing bowl. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy. This step activates the yeast.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
Incorporate the flour and salt into the yeast mixture:
Gradually add flour while mixing with a whisk.
Stir until fully combined into a sticky dough.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer your dough onto a floured surface:
1. Knead gently for about 5 minutes until smooth.
2. Shape it into a ball.
Step 4: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl:
Cover it with a kitchen towel.
Let it rise in a warm place for about 90 minutes or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Form the Focaccia
Once risen:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Gently punch down the dough, then transfer it onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Stretch and shape it into an even rectangle.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover again with a kitchen towel:
Allow it to rise for another 30 minutes, so it’s light and fluffy.
Step 7: Add Toppings
Drizzle olive oil over the surface:
1. Use your fingers to create dimples across the dough.
2. Sprinkle fresh rosemary leaves and coarse sea salt on top.
Step 8: Bake Your Focaccia
Bake in preheated oven:
Cook for about 25 minutes until golden brown.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Remove from oven:
1. Let cool slightly before slicing.
2. Enjoy warm or at room temperature with dips or spreads!
How to Serve Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe
Focaccia bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in several delightful ways. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or a side dish, its fluffy texture and rich flavor will elevate any meal.
As an Appetizer
- Serve it warm with a variety of dips like olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.
- Pair with antipasto platters featuring cured meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables.
With Soups and Salads
- Enjoy alongside a hearty minestrone soup for a comforting meal.
- Slice into pieces to accompany fresh garden salads, adding texture and flavor.
For Sandwiches
- Use slices of focaccia as the bread for delicious sandwiches filled with deli meats and fresh veggies.
- Create a panini by grilling focaccia with your favorite fillings until crispy.
At Breakfast
- Toast slices of focaccia and top them with avocado, poached eggs, or smoked salmon for a gourmet breakfast.
- Spread cream cheese or ricotta topped with fruits for a sweet morning treat.
As a Pizza Base
- Use it as a base for mini pizzas by adding sauce, cheese, and your favorite toppings before baking briefly.
How to Perfect Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe
Perfecting your focaccia bread requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your bread turns out amazing every time.
- Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh yeast and good-quality olive oil make a significant difference in flavor.
- Knead properly: Ensure that the dough is kneaded well to develop gluten, which gives the focaccia its desired texture.
- Let it rise fully: Allow enough time for the dough to rise; this improves the flavor and texture dramatically.
- Preheat your oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking to achieve that perfect crust.
- Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add garlic, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Cool before slicing: Let the focaccia cool slightly after baking before cutting into it to maintain its structure.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe
Focaccia bread pairs beautifully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:
- Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella for a fresh appetizer.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil leaves drizzled with balsamic glaze make a vibrant side.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized provides a hearty accompaniment.
- Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad tossed with olive oil, herbs, and vegetables adds a delightful contrast.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp: Juicy shrimp sautéed in garlic butter make an elegant pairing that’s full of flavor.
- Creamy Risotto: A rich risotto complements the lightness of focaccia perfectly while adding comfort to the meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making focaccia bread can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.
- Flour Choice: Using the wrong flour can lead to dense bread. Always use bread flour for the best texture.
- Water Temperature: If your water is too hot, it can kill the yeast. Make sure it’s warm, around 110°F (43°C), for optimal activation.
- Skipping the Rise: Not allowing enough time for the dough to rise can make your focaccia flat. Be patient and let it rise until doubled in size.
- Over-Oiling: While olive oil is essential, too much can make the dough greasy. Use just enough to coat the pan and drizzle for flavor.
- Neglecting Toppings: Focaccia is versatile; skipping toppings like herbs or sea salt can lead to blandness. Experiment with different toppings for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store focaccia bread in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3 days in the fridge without losing its quality.
Freezing Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer bag.
- You can freeze focaccia for up to 3 months.
Reheating Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10 minutes to revive its crispiness.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals of 15 seconds. This method may soften the crust.
- Stovetop: Place on a skillet over medium heat. Cover and heat for about 5 minutes until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries related to this easy focaccia bread recipe.
How do I ensure my Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe rises well?
Using fresh yeast and warm water helps activate the dough properly, ensuring a good rise.
Can I add toppings to my Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize with toppings such as olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even cheese.
What if my Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe turns out dense?
This could be due to under-proofing or using all-purpose flour instead of bread flour. Ensure proper rising time and use the right flour.
How should I store leftover Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
This easy focaccia bread recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, you can customize it with various toppings to suit your taste. Give it a try and enjoy a slice of Italy right at home!
Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Bring the flavors of Italy into your home with this Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe. This delightful bread features a crispy crust and a soft, airy interior, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, pairing it with soups and salads, or enjoying it on its own, this focaccia is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers will find success. Customize with your favorite toppings like olives or herbs for a personal touch that elevates your dining experience.
Ingredients
- 4 cups bread flour or all-purpose flour
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 3/4 cups warm water
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves
- Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture; stir until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth; shape into a ball.
- Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for approximately 90 minutes or until doubled in size.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet; stretch into an even rectangle.
- Allow the dough to rise again for 30 minutes before adding olive oil, rosemary, and sea salt.
- Bake for about 25 minutes until golden brown; cool slightly before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 70g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
