The aroma of freshly baked focaccia wafts through the air like a warm hug from your grandmother. With its golden crust and soft, pillowy interior, this homemade focaccia bread recipe is not just a loaf; it’s an experience that draws everyone around the table. Imagine tearing off a piece and dipping it in olive oil while chatting with friends—pure bliss.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What flour is best for homemade focaccia bread?
- Can I add herbs to my focaccia?
- How do I know when my focaccia is done baking?
- 📖 Recipe Card
I remember the first time I tried my hand at making focaccia. It was during a rainy Sunday afternoon when my kitchen turned into a mini culinary lab. Flour everywhere and an ambitious determination to create something delicious led me to crafting this heavenly bread. The anticipation built as the dough rose—my family could hardly wait for that first taste!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This scrumptious focaccia is incredibly easy to make and perfect for beginners in the kitchen.
- The flavor profile combines aromatic herbs with a hint of sea salt for the ultimate savory treat.
- Visually appealing with its dimpled surface and golden hue, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike.
- Perfect as an appetizer or alongside your favorite dishes!
I’ll never forget how my family’s eyes lit up when they took that first bite; it was like I had handed them a slice of heaven.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: A versatile choice that forms the base of your dough; go for high-quality flour for best results.
- Active Dry Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh for proper rising; this is key to achieving that airy texture.
- Warm Water: Use water around 100°F (38°C) to activate the yeast without killing it; feel free to test with your wrist!
- Olive Oil: Opt for extra virgin olive oil for rich flavor; it enhances both texture and taste.
- Sea Salt: A pinch adds depth to your dough; don’t skimp on this important ingredient.
- Fresh Herbs (like Rosemary): These add vibrant flavor; use whatever you have on hand or try different combinations.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit until foamy—about five minutes means you’re on the right track! Add flour, olive oil, and salt next; mix until a sticky dough forms.
Knead Away!: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic; think of it as your mini workout session! Don’t forget to enjoy the delightful aromas filling your kitchen.
Let It Rise: Place your kneaded dough in an oiled bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or a damp cloth. Allow it to rise in a warm place until doubled in size—about 1 hour is ideal.
Dimpling Time!: Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Spread it out onto a greased baking sheet using your hands; now comes the fun part—use your fingers to create those signature dimples!
Add Flavor: Drizzle more olive oil over the top once you’ve dimpled it nicely. Sprinkle with sea salt and chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme; this step is where your focaccia truly gets its personality!
Bake & Enjoy: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown and smelling heavenly! Let cool slightly before slicing into glorious pieces.
Now you’re ready to serve this delightful homemade focaccia bread! Whether enjoyed plain or paired with dips or cheese platters, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Enjoy every bite of this incredible journey into homemade bread-making!
You Must Know
- This homemade focaccia bread recipe offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
- The golden crust and soft, airy interior create an irresistible treat.
- This easy-to-make bread is perfect for sharing at gatherings or simply enjoying with olive oil.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the dough and letting it rise until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours. Next, shape the dough on a baking sheet, dimple it, and let it rise again while preheating your oven to 425°F. Finally, bake until golden brown.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with toppings like rosemary, sea salt, or even sun-dried tomatoes. You can also swap out the olive oil for flavored oils to elevate the taste further. Get creative; this bread loves company!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For best results when reheating, pop it in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to restore its crispy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality olive oil for richer flavor; it makes a world of difference in taste.
- Always allow proper resting time for the dough; patience leads to better texture.
- Don’t forget to generously dimple the dough; this creates those lovely pockets for oil and toppings!
Baking this focaccia brought back memories of family gatherings where everyone would dive into warm bread fresh from the oven. The laughter and joy shared over something so simple made it all worthwhile.
FAQ
What flour is best for homemade focaccia bread?
Use all-purpose flour or bread flour for a perfect balance of chewiness and softness.
Can I add herbs to my focaccia?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs like rosemary enhance the flavor beautifully in this homemade focaccia bread recipe.
How do I know when my focaccia is done baking?
Focaccia is ready when it’s golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Homemade Focaccia Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings
Description
Indulge in this delightful homemade focaccia bread, known for its golden crust and fluffy interior. Perfect for sharing or enjoying solo, it’s an irresistible treat for any occasion!
Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour
- Active Dry Yeast
- Warm Water (100°F/38°C)
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Sea Salt
- Fresh Herbs (e.g., Rosemary)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit until foamy (about 5 minutes).
- Add flour, olive oil, and salt; mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
- Transfer dough to an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled (about 1 hour).
- Gently punch down the dough, spread it onto a greased baking sheet, and create dimples with your fingers.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt and herbs.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (70g)
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
