If you’ve been craving warm, golden homemade bread with a perfectly crispy crust and fluffy interior, this easy focaccia recipe is exactly what you need. Let’s bring the joy of baking into your kitchen with this simple, step-by-step guide.
Homemade bread has always held a special place in my heart.
The smell of freshly baked bread wafting through the house is nothing short of magical.
I first tried making focaccia during a quiet weekend at home, and the result was so delightful that it became a family favorite.
The best part? You don’t need to be a seasoned baker to create this masterpiece.
Why You’ll Love This
- Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses pantry staples like flour, olive oil, and yeast.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like rosemary, cherry tomatoes, or garlic.
- Beginner-Friendly: Perfect for first-time bread bakers with easy-to-follow steps.
- Versatile: Great as a side dish, sandwich base, or even a snack on its own.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours (including rising time)
Cuisines: Italian
Servings: 8
Estimated Cost: $5-$7
Equipment: Large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, baking sheet, parchment paper, clean kitchen towel, and a wooden spoon.
Ingredients
- 3 1/4 cups (400g) all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 cups (300ml) warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
- Optional toppings: Fresh rosemary, sea salt, cherry tomatoes, sliced olives, minced garlic
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- Mix the Dough: Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough comes together.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Pan: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil. Spread the dough onto the sheet, pressing it gently to fit.
- Add Dimples and Toppings: Use your fingers to create dimples all over the dough. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with your choice of toppings.
- Second Rise: Cover the dough and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the focaccia for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 190
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
Tips for Success
- Use Warm Water: Ensure your water is warm (not hot) to activate the yeast properly.
- Be Patient with Rising: Allow enough time for the dough to rise—it’s worth it!
- Don’t Skip the Olive Oil: It’s essential for the focaccia’s signature flavor and texture.
- Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with herbs, cheeses, or even caramelized onions.
Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread Recipe
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 3 ¼ cups 400g all-purpose flour
- 1 ¼ cups 300ml warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 1 packet 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 2 tsp salt
- ¼ cup 60ml extra virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
- Optional toppings: Fresh rosemary sea salt, cherry tomatoes, sliced olives, minced garlic
Instructions
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- Mix the Dough: Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough comes together.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Pan: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil. Spread the dough onto the sheet, pressing it gently to fit.
- Add Dimples and Toppings: Use your fingers to create dimples all over the dough. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with your choice of toppings.
- Second Rise: Cover the dough and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the focaccia for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use Warm Water: Ensure your water is warm (not hot) to activate the yeast properly.
- Be Patient with Rising: Allow enough time for the dough to rise—it’s worth it!
- Don’t Skip the Olive Oil: It’s essential for the focaccia’s signature flavor and texture.
- Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with herbs, cheeses, or even caramelized onions.
Common Questions
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast. Skip the activation step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.
How do I store focaccia bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to refresh.
Can I freeze focaccia?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Why is my focaccia dense?
This could happen if the yeast wasn’t activated properly or if the dough didn’t rise enough. Make sure to follow the steps carefully.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this easy homemade focaccia bread recipe is sure to impress.
Enjoy baking and sharing this delicious treat with your loved ones.
Happy baking!