Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe

This Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe brings the delightful flavors of Italy right into your home. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a cozy family meal, or simply craving a delicious snack, this focaccia is perfect for any occasion. Its crispy exterior and soft interior make it a versatile dish that pairs well with soups, salads, or can be enjoyed on its own. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation process, you’ll find yourself making this recipe time and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses basic pantry staples like flour and yeast, making it easy to whip up whenever the craving strikes.
• Hands-Off Preparation: Most of the time is spent letting the dough rise, allowing you to focus on other tasks or enjoy some relaxation.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or even a base for sandwiches; the possibilities are endless!
• Delicious Flavor: Infused with fresh rosemary and drizzled with olive oil, each bite offers a burst of authentic Italian taste.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to experiment with additional toppings like olives or sun-dried tomatoes for personalized flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make this focaccia bread easily, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your baking experience goes smoothly and yields delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Plastic wrap or kitchen towel

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows ample space for mixing and kneading your dough without spills.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet provides an even surface for cooking your focaccia evenly.
• Parchment paper: Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Plastic wrap or kitchen towel: Covering your dough during rising helps retain moisture and promotes proper fermentation.

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

For Topping

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

How to Make Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, yeast, and salt. Mix well.
2. Slowly add in the warm water while stirring until a rough dough forms.
3. Incorporate the olive oil, then knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.

Step 2: Let It Rise

1. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel.
2. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about 2 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape the Focaccia

1. Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release any air bubbles.
2. Transfer it onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Stretch out the dough using your fingers to fill the sheet evenly.

Step 4: Add Toppings

1. Use your fingertips to create dimples across the surface of the dough.
2. Sprinkle fresh rosemary leaves and coarse sea salt over the top.
3. Drizzle additional olive oil for added flavor.

Step 5: Bake It

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown on top.
3. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade focaccia bread as a delightful addition to any meal!

How to Serve Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe

Focaccia bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or alongside a main dish, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

As a Standalone Snack

• Freshly baked focaccia pairs well with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping, enhancing its rich flavors.

With Soup or Salad

• Serve warm focaccia alongside a hearty soup or fresh salad. Its texture complements liquid dishes perfectly.

As a Sandwich Base

• Slice focaccia horizontally to create an excellent base for sandwiches. Layer with your favorite ingredients for a delicious meal.

With Charcuterie Boards

• Cut focaccia into bite-sized pieces to include on a charcuterie board, offering a delightful contrast to cured meats and cheeses.

Topped with Spreads

• Spread hummus or pesto over slices of focaccia for a quick and flavorful snack or appetizer.

How to Perfect Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe

Perfecting your focaccia bread is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your bread turns out amazing every time.

• Use warm water – Water temperature should be around 110°F (43°C) to effectively activate the yeast.
• Knead properly – Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, which will help develop the gluten structure.
• Don’t rush the rise – Allow sufficient time for the dough to rise; this enhances flavor and texture.
• Create dimples – Use your fingers to create dimples in the dough before baking, which helps hold toppings and olive oil.
• Experiment with toppings – While rosemary is classic, consider adding olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or garlic for variety.
• Cool before slicing – Let the focaccia cool slightly before cutting; this helps maintain its structure.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe

Pairing your focaccia with the right side dishes can enhance your meal further. Here are some great options you can serve alongside your focaccia.

1. Bruschetta – A classic Italian appetizer made with diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic served on toasted bread.
2. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil make a refreshing addition.
3. Grilled Vegetables – Charred seasonal vegetables seasoned with herbs complement the flavors of focaccia perfectly.
4. Pasta Primavera – A light pasta dish loaded with fresh vegetables that pairs wonderfully with soft bread.
5. Chickpea Salad – A protein-packed salad featuring chickpeas, cucumbers, and feta cheese adds heartiness to your meal.
6. Roasted Garlic Hummus – This creamy dip brings out flavors that go well with the fluffy texture of focaccia.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making focaccia bread can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold flour choice: Using the wrong type of flour can affect the texture. Stick to bread flour or all-purpose flour for the best results.
• Bold neglecting yeast activation: If using active dry yeast, ensure it is properly activated in warm water before mixing. This helps your dough rise well.
• Bold over-kneading the dough: Kneading too much can lead to dense bread. Just knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
• Bold skipping the resting time: Focaccia needs time to rise properly. Don’t rush this step; allow at least 1-2 hours for the best flavor and texture.
• Bold insufficient oil application: Olive oil adds flavor and keeps the bread moist. Drizzle enough on top before baking, and don’t forget to add it to the mixture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store focaccia bread in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe

• Wrap the focaccia tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the focaccia directly on the oven rack for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Wrap in a damp paper towel and heat for 15-30 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as it may become tough.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place focaccia in the skillet, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making an Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe.

What makes an Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe special?

This recipe is special because it’s simple yet yields a beautifully textured bread that’s perfect as a side dish or appetizer.

Can I customize my Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add toppings like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or different herbs to suit your taste.

How long does it take to make an Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe?

The total time is approximately 2.5 hours for preparation and rising, followed by 25 minutes of baking.

What should I serve with my Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe?

Focaccia pairs well with soups, salads, or simply enjoyed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar as a dipping sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it plain or customize it with your favorite toppings. Give it a try; it’s a wonderful addition to any meal!