Introduction:
Focaccia is an Italian flatbread that is deliciously soft, slightly chewy, and perfect for any meal or occasion. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients, and the results are absolutely worth it. With its golden, crisp crust and tender interior, this Simple Focaccia Bread is perfect for dipping in olive oil, pairing with soups, or serving alongside pasta. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe will guide you to make focaccia that rivals your favorite bakery!
Ingredients:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons instant yeast
1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
1/4 cup olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (or dried)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Coarse sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast.
Add the warm water and 1/4 cup of olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough comes together.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. (Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 4-5 minutes.)
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
Transfer the dough to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or sheet pan. Use your fingers to gently press and stretch the dough to fit the pan.
Drizzle the top of the dough with olive oil, then sprinkle with rosemary, garlic powder (if using), and coarse sea salt.
Let the dough rest for 15-20 minutes to rise slightly, while the oven finishes preheating.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and crispy on the edges.
Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, slice, and serve!
Description:
This Simple Focaccia Bread is delightfully easy to make, yet full of flavor. The dough is soft and fluffy, while the olive oil and rosemary create a savory, aromatic crust. The combination of olive oil and coarse salt on top gives the focaccia its characteristic crispy edges. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or enjoyed on its own, this focaccia offers a perfect balance of texture and flavor in every bite.
Tips:
If you want a more pronounced olive oil flavor, be generous with the oil on top of the dough before baking.
Allowing the dough to rise twice helps develop more flavor, so don’t skip the resting step.
For a lighter, airier focaccia, you can add an extra tablespoon of olive oil to the dough during the mixing stage.
If you want extra flavor, experiment by adding sliced olives, cherry tomatoes, or caramelized onions to the dough before baking.
Use your fingertips to make dimples all over the dough before baking; this helps the bread rise evenly and gives it that classic focaccia appearance.
Variations:
Garlic & Parmesan Focaccia: Add minced garlic and grated parmesan cheese to the dough before baking for a rich, savory twist.
Olive & Herb Focaccia: Top with a mix of black olives, green olives, rosemary, and thyme for a Mediterranean-inspired focaccia.
Balsamic & Caramelized Onion Focaccia: Drizzle balsamic vinegar and top with caramelized onions for a sweet and tangy flavor combination.
Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Focaccia: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil to the dough or sprinkle on top before baking for a burst of flavor.
Corrections:
If your dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency. Conversely, if it’s too dry and crumbly, add small amounts of water to bring the dough together. Ensure your water is warm but not too hot, as water that’s too hot can kill the yeast.
Enjoy:
Once your focaccia is out of the oven, slice it while it’s still warm and enjoy it with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of sea salt, or a side of balsamic vinegar for dipping. This bread is a great accompaniment to any meal or as a standalone snack with your favorite dip!