Focaccia

Making focaccia is easier than you think. With our recipe, you can create authentic Italian focaccia bread in just three hours. This recipe has been tested by countless followers on our blog and social media. You’ll end up with focaccia that boasts a crisp golden crust and a soft, airy crumb. Perfect for snacking, serving with meals, or even using as a pizza base, this focaccia is sure to impress at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: You can whip up this delicious focaccia in under three hours.
• Versatile Flavor: Customize your focaccia with herbs, toppings, or dips to suit any occasion.
• Crispy & Soft Texture: Enjoy the delightful contrast of a crispy crust and soft interior.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 12 pieces, making it ideal for gatherings or family meals.
• Simple Ingredients: You only need a few pantry staples to create this amazing bread.

Tools and Preparation

To make your focaccia experience seamless, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are the key tools you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon
• Baking pan
• Plastic wrap or damp cloth
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl allows you to combine ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for mixing sticky dough without losing grip.
• Baking pan: A good quality pan ensures even baking and prevents sticking.

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 the ingredients for the dough.
2. In a small bowl, add lukewarm water, instant dry yeast, and sugar. Whisk together and let it sit for about 30 seconds until the yeast fully dissolves. If it doesn’t dissolve, use fresh yeast.

Step 2: Make the Dough

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

Step 3: Choose Proofing Method

1. For quick proofing (1.5 to 2 hours), cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and place it in a warm oven for the designated time or until doubled in volume.
2. For slow proofing (8 to 24 hours), cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Remove from fridge and allow it to come back to room temperature for 2 to 3 hours before proceeding.

Step 4: Folding

1. After proofing, fold the dough over itself about 20 to 40 times (this takes approximately 30–60 seconds) while it is still in the bowl.
2. Stop folding once you feel that the dough gets tight.

Step 5: Final Proofing

1. Grease your baking pan with additional olive oil.
2. Transfer the dough into the pan and spread using two spoons until mostly covered.
3. Cover again with a damp cloth/plastic wrap and let proof for an additional 45 minutes in a warm spot while preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C).

Step 6: Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix together extra virgin olive oil, water, and salt until dissolved.
2. Dip your fingers into this mixture and press dimples into the dough across its surface.
3. Pour any remaining oil-water mixture over top of the dough and optionally sprinkle with rosemary and flaky salt.

Step 7: Bake

1. Once preheated, place your focaccia on the medium-low rack of your oven.
2. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes; check for golden brown color on top.
3. Once done, let cool for at least five minutes before removing from pan, cutting into pieces, and serving.

Enjoy your homemade focaccia!

How to Serve Focaccia

Focaccia is a versatile bread that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want it as an appetizer, side dish, or main course, there are plenty of delicious serving options to try.

As an Appetizer

• Olive Oil Dip: Drizzle extra virgin olive oil mixed with balsamic vinegar for a simple yet flavorful dip.
• Herbed Butter: Spread softened butter mixed with fresh herbs over warm focaccia for a rich taste.

With Salads

• Caprese Salad: Serve alongside a classic Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a refreshing combination.
• Greek Salad: Pair focaccia with a Greek salad for a Mediterranean flavor explosion.

As a Sandwich Base

• Focaccia Sandwiches: Use slices of focaccia to create hearty sandwiches filled with meats, cheeses, and vegetables.
• Bruschetta: Top sliced focaccia with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil for an easy bruschetta.

With Soups

• Minestrone Soup: Enjoy focaccia dipped in hearty minestrone soup for a comforting meal.
• Tomato Basil Soup: Pair with creamy tomato basil soup for a classic combination.

How to Perfect Focaccia

Making perfect focaccia takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some essential tips to help you achieve the ideal texture and flavor.

• Use Fresh Yeast: Always check the freshness of your instant dry yeast; expired yeast can prevent proper rising.
• Knead Well: Ensure the dough is kneaded until it’s smooth and elastic; this creates the desired airy crumb.
• Proper Proofing Temperature: Keep your dough in a warm environment during proofing to encourage yeast activity.
• Don’t Rush Baking Time: Allow sufficient baking time; underbaking leads to doughy textures while overbaking can dry it out.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add different toppings like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or cheese to enhance flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Focaccia

Focaccia pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some top options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables in olive oil and roast until caramelized; they add a sweet touch to your meal.
2. Antipasto Platter: Create an antipasto platter with cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables for an Italian feast.
3. Pasta Primavera: Serve alongside pasta primavera loaded with fresh veggies for a colorful presentation.
4. Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Marinate shrimp in garlic and herbs before grilling; they make a delicious seafood pairing.
5. Arugula Salad: A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette provides brightness against the rich bread.
6. Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks: For an extra indulgence, serve cheesy garlic breadsticks that complement the focaccia’s texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making focaccia can be easy, but several common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using cold water: Cold water can hinder yeast activation. Always use lukewarm water to ensure your yeast blooms properly.
• Overproofing the dough: Letting the dough rise too long can cause it to deflate. Keep an eye on the volume and stop proofing when it doubles in size.
• Not greasing the pan enough: A sticky focaccia can be frustrating. Make sure to generously grease your baking pan with olive oil or use parchment paper.
• Skipping the dimpling step: Dimples help hold toppings and create texture. Don’t skip this step; press down firmly with your fingers!
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Preheat your oven properly and maintain the right temperature for perfect results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Focaccia stays fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• • Containers: Use an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.

Freezing Focaccia

• • Duration: You can freeze focaccia for up to 3 months.
• • Containers: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Focaccia

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds, checking until warm but not soggy.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making focaccia that will help you get it just right.

Can I make focaccia without instant dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute active dry yeast, but you’ll need to activate it first by dissolving it in lukewarm water with a bit of sugar.

How do I know when my focaccia is done baking?

Your focaccia is ready when it’s golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

What toppings work well on focaccia?

Focaccia is versatile! You can top it with herbs, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or cheese. Get creative with your favorite flavors!

How do I store leftover focaccia?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This focaccia recipe is a delightful blend of simplicity and flavor. The crispy crust and soft interior make it perfect as a snack, sandwich base, or side dish. Feel free to customize your focaccia with various toppings or herbs according to your preferences!

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Perfectly Crispy Focaccia

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 12 pieces 1x

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Description

Making homemade focaccia is a delightful and easy culinary adventure. This classic Italian flatbread features a perfectly crispy golden crust paired with a soft, airy interior. In just under three hours, you can create this versatile bread that’s perfect for snacking, serving alongside meals, or using as a base for sandwiches or pizzas. Customize your focaccia with various herbs and toppings to match any occasion and impress friends and family with its delectable flavor.

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Ingredients

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• 1¾ cups lukewarm water
• 2 teaspoons instant dry yeast
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour)
• 3 teaspoons salt
• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided)
• Optional: rosemary and flaky salt for topping

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Instructions

1. Bloom the yeast by whisking together lukewarm water, instant dry yeast, and sugar; let it sit until dissolved.
2. Mix flour and salt in a large bowl, then add the yeast mixture and stir until a wet dough forms. Incorporate olive oil.
3. Proof the dough by covering it with plastic wrap or a damp cloth; place it in a warm spot for 1.5 to 2 hours until doubled in size.
4. Fold the dough gently in the bowl before transferring it to a greased baking pan.
5. Let it rise again for about 45 minutes while preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C).
6. Dimple the dough with your fingers, drizzle with an olive oil mixture, and add toppings if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown; cool slightly before slicing.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece (approximately 70g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 240mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg