Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious bread that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion, this Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe is just what you need! Imagine pulling a warm, golden-brown flatbread out of the oven, its surface glistening with olive oil and sprinkled with sea salt. This recipe has become a favorite in my home because it not only fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma but also pairs beautifully with any meal or stands alone as a delightful snack.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this focaccia will impress everyone at the table. Plus, it’s wonderfully simple to prepare, making it accessible for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. You’ll love how this bread can elevate your dining experience without requiring hours of effort!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this focaccia without any fuss.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves freshly baked bread! It’s perfect for dipping in olive oil or serving alongside your favorite dishes.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake it right before serving for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.
• Customizable flavors: Feel free to get creative by adding toppings like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even different herbs!
• Perfectly fluffy texture: The combination of warm water and yeast creates a light and airy bread that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this easy homemade focaccia, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry; they’re likely already 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 the Topping

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

Variations

One of the best things about focaccia is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or whatever ingredients you have on hand.

• Add herbs: Mix in other fresh herbs like thyme or basil for an extra burst of flavor.
• Cheesy goodness: Sprinkle some grated parmesan or mozzarella on top before baking for a cheesy twist.
• Veggie delight: Top with sliced cherry tomatoes or caramelized onions for added sweetness and color.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes into the dough or sprinkle them on top for a spicy kick.

How to Make Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by mixing the warm water with the yeast in a large bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly. This step is crucial because it activates the yeast, ensuring your bread rises beautifully. Once bubbly, add the flour and salt into the bowl, followed by 1/4 cup of olive oil. Stir until combined; don’t worry if it looks a bit shaggy—this is normal!

Step 2: Knead and Rise

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently for about 5 minutes until smooth. Shape it into a ball and place it in an oiled bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot for about 2 hours. This rising time allows air bubbles to form, which gives your focaccia its delightful texture.

Step 3: Shape the Focaccia

Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release some air. Grease a baking sheet with olive oil, then transfer the dough onto it. Stretch and press the dough into an even rectangle—don’t worry about being perfect! Use your fingers to create dimples all over the surface; these pockets will hold onto all those delicious toppings.

Step 4: Add Toppings and Bake

Sprinkle fresh rosemary leaves over the top of your dough, followed by coarse sea salt. Drizzle with more olive oil for that crispy finish. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) while letting the dough rest for another 20 minutes on the baking sheet. Then pop it into the oven for about 25 minutes, or until it’s golden brown on top.

Step 5: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing into squares. Serve warm as an appetizer or alongside your favorite dish—trust me, everyone will be reaching for seconds! Enjoy this Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe as part of your next meal!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe

Making focaccia may seem intimidating, but with these helpful tips, you’ll be a pro in no time!

• Use warm water: Ensuring your water is warm (not hot) activates the yeast effectively, helping your dough rise beautifully. Aim for around 110°F (43°C) for optimal results.
• Don’t rush the rising: Allowing the dough to rise longer than the recipe suggests can enhance the flavor and texture. A longer fermentation period develops a richer taste and airy crumb.
• Generously drizzle olive oil: Adding extra virgin olive oil both in the dough and on top before baking creates a crispy crust and adds rich flavor to every bite.
• Experiment with toppings: While rosemary is traditional, feel free to add other toppings such as sliced olives, cherry tomatoes, or even garlic for a flavorful twist that suits your palate.
• Preheat your baking pan: Heating your baking pan in the oven before adding the dough can help create that desirable crispy bottom crust. Just be careful when transferring the dough!

How to Serve Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe

Focaccia bread is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile! Here are some fun ways to serve it that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkling fresh basil or thyme on top right after baking adds a burst of color and flavor.
• Sea salt flakes: A sprinkle of coarse sea salt just before baking enhances the taste and gives a lovely finish.

Side Dishes

• Bruschetta: This classic Italian appetizer made with diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic complements focaccia beautifully and offers a fresh contrast.
• Mediterranean Salad: A vibrant mix of cucumbers, bell peppers, red onions, and feta cheese tossed in lemon vinaigrette pairs well with focaccia’s fluffy texture.
• Hummus: Smooth and creamy hummus served alongside focaccia provides a hearty dip that makes for a delightful pairing.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies drizzled with balsamic glaze make a colorful and nutritious side that enhances any meal featuring focaccia.

Enjoy crafting this delightful focaccia bread recipe, perfect for sharing at gatherings or savoring on cozy nights in!

Make Ahead and Storage

This easy focaccia bread recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store and preserve your delicious creation.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If you want to keep it fresh longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• For best results, avoid refrigerating as this can dry out the bread.

Freezing

• Allow the focaccia to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Focaccia can be frozen for up to 3 months. Don’t forget to label the bags with the date!

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the focaccia on a baking sheet and cover loosely with aluminum foil.
• Bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also toast slices in a toaster oven for a crispier texture.

 

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this easy focaccia bread recipe.

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

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for bread flour. However, you may need to add a little more water as whole wheat absorbs more liquid.

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

The total time for this recipe is approximately 2 hours and 55 minutes, including preparation, rising, and baking time.

Can I add other toppings besides rosemary?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with toppings like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or garlic. Just remember not to overload the dough!

What’s the best way to serve focaccia?

Focaccia is delightful served warm as an appetizer or side dish. It pairs wonderfully with soups or salads and makes a fantastic base for sandwiches!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to try this easy focaccia bread recipe! It’s not only simple but also incredibly rewarding when you pull that golden loaf from the oven. Enjoy sharing it with friends and family—there’s nothing quite like homemade bread! Happy baking!