This homemade focaccia bread is a fluffy, golden delight with a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior. Perfect as a side dish, sandwich base, or even on its own, this classic Italian bread is elevated with a drizzle of olive oil and optional herbs like rosemary and garlic powder for extra flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner bakers.
The recipe is customizable with your favorite toppings, from herbs to cheese.
Freshly baked focaccia is far superior to store-bought options.
Perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to entertaining guests.
It fills the house with an irresistible aroma of fresh bread.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
1 tbsp sugar
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp salt
1/4 cup olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
1 tbsp fresh rosemary (optional)
1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
Coarse sea salt (optional, for topping)
Directions
In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and 1/4 cup olive oil. Stir until the dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 4 minutes.
Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Punch down the dough and spread it evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let it rise for an additional 20 minutes.
Drizzle the dough with olive oil, and use your fingers to create dimples across the surface. Add toppings like rosemary, garlic powder, and coarse sea salt, if desired.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread turns golden brown.
Allow the bread to cool slightly, slice into squares, and serve.
Servings and Timing
Servings: Makes approximately 12 servings.
Prep Time: 15 minutes (active)
Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours
Variations
Cheesy Focaccia: Add shredded Parmesan or mozzarella on top before baking.
Vegetable Topping: Use thinly sliced tomatoes, onions, or olives as additional toppings.
Herb Blend: Swap rosemary for Italian seasoning or a mix of fresh thyme and oregano.
Whole Wheat Version: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the top before baking.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Keep leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing: Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to regain their crisp texture, or microwave briefly for a softer result.
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FAQs
How do I know if my yeast is active?
If your yeast mixture becomes foamy after 5-10 minutes, it’s active and ready to use. If not, the yeast may be expired, or the water temperature could be incorrect.
Can I make focaccia without a stand mixer?
Absolutely! Kneading the dough by hand works just as well and requires only a little extra effort.
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can. If using instant yeast, skip the proofing step and add it directly to the dry ingredients.
Why does focaccia need dimples?
The dimples help trap olive oil and toppings, ensuring even flavor distribution and preventing the dough from puffing unevenly during baking.
Can I make this dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after the first rise. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
Conclusion
This homemade focaccia bread is a foolproof way to enjoy freshly baked bread that’s perfect for any meal. With its versatile nature and incredible taste, I’m confident it will become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it with soups, salads, or as a base for your favorite sandwiches—it’s a recipe worth mastering.
📖 Recipe:
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Homemade Focaccia Bread
- Total Time: 2 hours (Includes 1 hour 30 minutes Rising)
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This homemade focaccia bread recipe is a deliciously fluffy and golden bread with a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a versatile Italian classic that’s easy to make and customizable with toppings like rosemary, garlic, or cheese. Whether served as a side dish, sandwich base, or standalone snack, it will fill your home with the irresistible aroma of fresh-baked bread.
Ingredients
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
1 tbsp sugar
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp salt
1/4 cup olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
1 tbsp fresh rosemary (optional)
1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
Coarse sea salt (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. - Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and 1/4 cup olive oil. Stir until a dough forms. - Knead the Dough:
Knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 4 minutes. - First Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size. - Shape the Dough:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down the dough and spread it into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Let it rise for another 20 minutes. - Add Toppings:
Drizzle olive oil over the dough, and use your fingers to create dimples on the surface. Add optional toppings like rosemary, garlic powder, and sea salt. - Bake:
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. - Serve:
Let the bread cool slightly, slice into squares, and enjoy!
Notes
Toppings: Customize with shredded cheese, thinly sliced vegetables, or a mix of fresh herbs for added flavor.
Storage: Store at room temperature in an airtight container for 2 days, refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 12 servings
