Name: Fluffy Focaccia Bread That's Easy and Irresistibly Delicious
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 165 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Warm Water (Between 105°F to 115°F); 1 tablespoon Cane Sugar (Can substitute with granulated sugar); 2 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast (Ensure yeast is active); 3.5 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can use bread flour for a chewier texture); 1.5 teaspoons Sea Salt (Do not substitute with table salt); 1/4 cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (Other oils may alter taste); to taste Flaky Sea Salt (Can substitute with Kosher salt); to taste Chopped Fresh Rosemary (Feel free to swap with thyme or garlic)

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The aroma wafted through my kitchen like a gentle embrace, drawing me in with its promise of comfort. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Easy Rosemary Focaccia Bread, a homemade delight that marries simplicity and flavor in every fluffy bite. This beginner-friendly Italian-style bread is not only a cinch to make, but it also elevates any meal with its crisp, golden crust and pillowy interior. Imagine serving warm slices right from the oven, drizzled in olive oil and topped with fresh rosemary—a perfect companion for your favorite soups or as a beautiful base for your gourmet sandwiches. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone starting your culinary journey, this focaccia bread will have you feeling like a true artisan in no time. Curious about how to create this delightful bread? Let’s dive in!

Why is Focaccia Bread so Irresistible?

Homemade Delight: There’s nothing quite like fresh focaccia made in your own kitchen—the aroma alone will captivate your senses.
Beginner-Friendly: You don’t need to be a master baker; this simple recipe ensures success with minimal effort.
Versatile Toppings: The base is a blank canvas! Feel free to experiment with toppings like olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a unique twist.
Perfect Texture: Expect a fluffy interior complemented by a crispy crust, making it a delightful addition to any meal.
Crowd Pleaser: Serve as an appetizer or slice for sandwiches, and watch it disappear in minutes! Add a side of Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks for a feast. Enjoying your homemade focaccia with a warm soup is just divine!

Focaccia Bread Ingredients

For the Dough

Warm Water – Activates yeast and hydrates the dough (Use water between 105° to 115°F).
Cane Sugar – Feeds yeast for fermentation (Can substitute with any granulated sugar).
Active Dry Yeast – Leavening agent for rising (Inactive yeast may not produce desired results).
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture (Can use bread flour for a chewier texture).
Sea Salt – Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity (Do not substitute with table salt as it can be too salty).
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Adds flavor and moisture to the dough (Other oils like canola can be used but may alter taste).

For the Topping

Flaky Sea Salt (optional) – For topping (Kosher salt can be used as a substitute).
Chopped Fresh Rosemary (optional) – Adds a fragrant herbal note (Feel free to swap with thyme or garlic).

This Focaccia Bread recipe is not only simple but also elevates your cooking game with its delightful flavor!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Rosemary Focaccia Bread

Step 1: Activate Yeast
In a stand mixer, combine 1 cup of warm water (between 105°F to 115°F) with 1 tablespoon of cane sugar. Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast on top, stirring gently. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes foamy, which indicates that the yeast is alive and ready to help your focaccia bread rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mix Dough
Once the yeast is foamy, add 3 ½ cups of all-purpose flour and 1 ½ teaspoons of sea salt to the mixture. Using the dough hook attachment, mix on low speed until a shaggy dough begins to form. Then, increase the speed to medium and knead for about 5 minutes, until the dough is sticky, elastic, and holds together well—perfect for your focaccia bread.

Step 3: First Rise
Transfer the dough into a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides with olive oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm area for 1 to 1.5 hours. The dough should roughly double in size, becoming light and airy—this step is crucial for achieving that perfect focaccia texture.

Step 4: Shape Dough
After the first rise, gently punch down the dough to release the air. Brush a 9×13-inch baking pan with olive oil, then fold the dough into itself a few times to form a rough ball. Transfer the dough to the prepared pan, gently pressing it to fit the edges, ensuring it fills the corners and is even throughout.

Step 5: Second Rise
Cover the shaped dough with a cloth and let it rise again for about 45 minutes in a warm spot. During this time, preheat your oven to 425°F (about 30 minutes before baking). The dough will puff up again, creating the fluffy interior that makes focaccia bread so delightful.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Once the dough has risen, uncover it and drizzle a generous amount of olive oil over the surface. Using your fingers, gently make dimples all over the dough—this not only adds texture but also traps the oil and flavors. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and chopped fresh rosemary, or choose your preferred toppings for extra flavor.

Step 7: Bake
Place your prepared focaccia in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the edges are crispy. You’ll know it’s done when you see a beautifully golden crust and can smell that inviting aroma wafting through your kitchen. Let it cool slightly before slicing into luscious pieces.

Make Ahead Options

For busy home cooks, this Easy Rosemary Focaccia Bread is a perfect meal prep solution! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first three steps and refrigerating it instead of letting it rise fully. Ensure it’s covered well with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. The next day, take it out, allow it to come to room temperature and rise in the pan for about 45 minutes before continuing with the final steps of drizzling olive oil and baking. This approach keeps your focaccia just as delicious and fluffy, offering the wonderful aroma of fresh baking with minimal effort when you’re ready to enjoy it!

Expert Tips for Perfect Focaccia Bread

Fresh Yeast Check: Ensure your yeast is fresh; if it doesn’t foam after 5 minutes, it’s inactive, and you’ll need new yeast for your focaccia bread.
Oil Generously: Don’t skimp on the olive oil! A good drizzle can help prevent sticking, especially in non-nonstick pans, ensuring a perfect crust.
Dimpling Technique: When creating dimples, don’t be afraid to push down firmly. This not only gives texture but also holds the delicious olive oil and toppings in place.
Embrace Toppings: Feel free to get creative! Add ingredients like caramelized onions, olives, or other fresh herbs for added flavor and variety in your focaccia bread.
Check Baking Time: Every oven is different! Keep an eye on your bread while it bakes to achieve that golden brown glory—too little time, and it’ll be doughy; too much, and it’ll become dry.

How to Store and Freeze Focaccia Bread

Room Temperature: Keep your focaccia bread covered at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its softness and flavor. A simple kitchen towel works well for this.
Fridge: For extended freshness, you can store focaccia in the fridge for up to 5 days. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out, though this may slightly affect texture.
Freezer: To enjoy your focaccia bread later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat thawed focaccia in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.

What to Serve with Easy Rosemary Focaccia Bread?

Imagine the joyful sounds of laughter around your dining table, complemented by the wonderful aroma of freshly baked focaccia bread that fills the air.

Creamy Tomato Soup: The warm, rich flavors of this classic soup pair beautifully with the airy texture of focaccia. It’s a comforting, satisfying combination perfect for chilly nights.
Garlic Herb Butter: Slathering warm focaccia with garlic herb butter adds a tasty twist and elevates every bite into a savory delight that’s impossible to resist.
Mixed Green Salad: A light and refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the focaccia. The crisp greens and crunchy veggies provide a delightful contrast.
Olive Tapenade: This savory spread loaded with olives and capers is perfect for dipping. It echoes the Mediterranean notes found in the focaccia itself, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
Antipasto Platter: Serve your focaccia alongside a colorful assortment of cured meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables. This adds variety and makes for an impressive presentation.
Wine Pairing: A glass of light, fruity white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, complements the herby flavors of the focaccia while cooling down the palate.
Pesto Dip: A vibrant, herby dip made with basil, garlic, and nuts makes a perfect match. Just tear off pieces of the focaccia and scoop up the deliciously fragrant pesto.

Each of these pairings creates a delightful culinary experience that complements the fluffy focaccia bread so beautifully, elevating your meal to new heights.

Focaccia Bread Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this focaccia bread recipe—there’s a world of flavors waiting for you to explore!

Herb Twist: Swap rosemary for thyme or basil for a different herbal profile. Each option adds its unique aromatic twist, elevating your bread in delightful ways.
Cheesy Delight: Top with shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese just before baking for a rich, gooey finish. Imagine the melty goodness drawing everyone to the table!
Savory Olives: Incorporate olive slices (green or black) into your dough or on top before baking for a briny contrasting flavor with every bite. They’ll add a Mediterranean flair that’s simply irresistible!
Caramelized Onion: For a touch of sweetness, layer caramelized onions on top of the bread. The sweetness balances beautifully with the savory notes of the olive oil and sea salt.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or thin slices of jalapeño for a hint of heat, giving your focaccia a bold punch that will excite your taste buds.
Sweet Variation: For a sweeter twist, mix in chopped dried fruits like figs or raisins, and drizzle honey on top after baking. This combination creates a wonderful contrast that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pine nuts, for added texture and a delightful crunch. This can transform the focaccia into a unique snack or appetizer!
Garlic Infusion: Mix in minced garlic with the olive oil before drizzling it over your dough for a profound garlic flavor with a delicious aroma. It pairs wonderfully with soups or as a side to pasta dishes.

With so many options, you can tailor your focaccia to match any meal or occasion! If you’re looking for more delicious bread recipes, you might want to try making some Chocolate Zucchini Bread or perhaps a savory Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread. Happy baking!

Focaccia Bread Recipe FAQs

What type of water should I use for the dough?
Absolutely! For the best results, you should use warm water between 105°F to 115°F. This temperature range activates the yeast effectively, ensuring your dough rises beautifully. If the water is too hot, it can kill the yeast, so make sure to double-check the temperature before mixing!

How should I store leftover focaccia?
You can keep your focaccia bread covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. I often use a simple kitchen towel to maintain its softness and flavor. If you want it to last longer, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and storing in the fridge will help, but do note it can dry out a bit.

Can I freeze focaccia bread?
Certainly! To freeze your focaccia, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place the wrapped bread in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be safely stored for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes to bring back its delicious texture.

What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
Oh no! If your dough doesn’t rise, the yeast may not be active. First, check if your yeast was fresh; it should foam within 5 minutes when mixed with warm water and sugar. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to start over with fresh yeast. Also, ensure your dough is placed in a warm spot to rise, as drafts or cold temperatures can impede fermentation.

Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
Definitely! This focaccia recipe includes common ingredients, so it’s essential to check for any allergies. For those gluten-sensitive, you can use gluten-free flour instead. Also, ensure no one has allergies to the oils or herbs used. Feel free to swap any toppings to accommodate dietary needs!