Imagine sinking your teeth into a pillowy, golden-brown bread, infused with the fragrant aroma of olive oil, herbs, and a hint of sea salt. That, my friends, is the magic of focaccia. This Italian flatbread is incredibly versatile, delightfully simple to make, and guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, this focaccia recipe will guide you step-by-step to create a masterpiece that’s perfect for sandwiches, appetizers, or simply enjoying on its own. Get ready to transform simple ingredients into a taste of Italy right in your own kitchen. We’re about to embark on an exciting baking adventure, crafting the most delicious focaccia you’ve ever tasted!

This recipe prioritizes ease and foolproof results, perfect for anyone intimidated by bread baking. We’ll demystify the process, breaking down each step into manageable instructions. You’ll learn the secrets to achieving that perfect airy crumb, that satisfyingly crisp crust, and the art of flavoring your focaccia to your heart’s content. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and let’s get baking this amazing Focaccia!

Recipe Overview
Before we dive into the details, let’s take a quick look at the recipe’s vital statistics:

Category | Value |
---|---|
Preparation Time | 25 minutes (plus 2-3 hours proofing) |
Cooking Time | 25-30 minutes |
Servings | 12 slices |
Difficulty | Easy |
Nutrition per Serving (Approximate)
Please note that these values are approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | Approximately 250-300 |
Fat | 10-15g |
Saturated Fat | 2-3g |
Cholesterol | 0mg |
Sodium | 200-300mg |
Carbohydrates | 30-40g |
Fiber | 1-2g |
Sugar | 1-2g |
Protein | 4-5g |
Focaccia Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece. This list includes everything necessary for that perfect Focaccia.

Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
All-Purpose Flour | 4 cups (500g) |
Instant Dry Yeast | 2 teaspoons (7g) |
Warm Water (105-115°F) | 1 3/4 cups (420ml) |
Olive Oil (Extra Virgin) | 1/2 cup (120ml), plus more for drizzling |
Salt | 2 teaspoons, plus more for sprinkling |
Fresh Rosemary (optional) | 2 tablespoons, chopped |
Flaky Sea Salt (optional) | For topping |
Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to bake your perfect focaccia. Making Focaccia has never been so easy!

- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the warm water and 1/4 cup (60ml) of olive oil.
- Mix the Dough: Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients until a shaggy dough forms. The dough will be quite sticky, and that’s perfectly fine.
- First Rise (Bulk Fermentation): Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 2-3 hours, or until doubled in size. This process allows the yeast to work its magic, creating the airy texture we desire in our focaccia. The timing can vary depending on your room temperature, so keep an eye on the dough rather than strictly adhering to the time.
- Prepare the Baking Pan: Generously grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with olive oil. This is crucial to prevent the focaccia from sticking and to achieve a beautifully golden crust.
- Transfer the Dough: Gently transfer the dough to the prepared baking pan. It will be sticky, so use oiled hands or a spatula to help spread it evenly. Don’t worry if it doesn’t reach all the corners of the pan; it will spread during the second rise.
- Second Rise (Proofing): Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes. This second rise allows the dough to relax and further develop its flavor and texture.
- Preheat the Oven: While the dough is proofing, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Make sure your oven rack is in the middle position.
- Create the Dimples: Uncover the dough and drizzle generously with the remaining 1/4 cup (60ml) of olive oil. Use your fingers to create deep dimples all over the surface of the dough. This is not only visually appealing but also helps the olive oil pool in the dimples, creating pockets of flavor and a delightfully crispy crust.
- Add Toppings (Optional): If using, sprinkle the chopped rosemary and flaky sea salt over the dimpled dough. Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Cherry tomatoes, olives, caramelized onions, or roasted garlic are all fantastic additions.
- Bake the Focaccia: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and the bottom sounds hollow when tapped. Keep a close eye on it, as baking times can vary depending on your oven.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool slightly in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bottom from becoming soggy. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
Focaccia is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in countless ways:

- As an Appetizer: Serve slices of focaccia with a selection of cheeses, cured meats, and olives for a delightful antipasto platter.
- As a Sandwich Bread: Use focaccia to make delicious sandwiches with your favorite fillings, such as grilled vegetables, prosciutto, and mozzarella.
- As a Side Dish: Serve focaccia alongside soups, salads, or pasta dishes for a satisfying and flavorful accompaniment.
- On its Own: Simply enjoy a warm slice of focaccia with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt. Sometimes, the simplest pleasures are the best!
- Pizza Base: Get creative and use the focaccia as a base for a unique and flavorful pizza. Top with your favorite pizza toppings and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips and Notes for Perfect Focaccia
- Use Good Quality Olive Oil: The flavor of olive oil is prominent in focaccia, so using a good quality extra virgin olive oil will make a significant difference in the final result.
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: Overworking the dough can result in a tough focaccia. Mix the dough until just combined and avoid kneading it excessively.
- Proof in a Warm Place: A warm environment is essential for the yeast to thrive and the dough to rise properly. Aim for a temperature of around 75-80°F (24-27°C). If your kitchen is cold, you can proof the dough in a slightly warmed oven (turned off) or near a radiator.
- Be Generous with the Olive Oil: Focaccia is all about olive oil, so don’t be shy when drizzling it over the dough. The olive oil not only adds flavor but also helps to create a crispy and golden crust.
- Customize Your Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Experiment with different herbs, vegetables, cheeses, and spices to create your own unique focaccia flavor combinations. Rosemary, thyme, olives, cherry tomatoes, caramelized onions, roasted garlic, and Parmesan cheese are all excellent options.
- Adjust Baking Time as Needed: Baking times can vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on the focaccia and adjust the baking time as needed to ensure it is golden brown and cooked through.
- Store Leftovers Properly: Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To refresh, warm it slightly in the oven or toaster before serving.
- Freezing Focaccia: Focaccia freezes well. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
This focaccia recipe is a fantastic starting point, but don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Add your favorite herbs, spices, and toppings to create a focaccia that reflects your personal taste. Baking is all about having fun and exploring new flavors, so get in the kitchen and start creating! Enjoy your delicious homemade focaccia. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, a side dish, or simply enjoying it on its own, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Once you’ve mastered this basic focaccia recipe, the possibilities are endless!

This recipe delivers an incredibly satisfying Focaccia. The combination of simple ingredients, careful proofing, and generous amounts of olive oil results in a flatbread that is both flavorful and texturally perfect. From the initial mixing of the dough to the final sprinkle of sea salt, each step contributes to the overall deliciousness of the finished product.

The beauty of this focaccia recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. You can easily adjust the toppings to suit your preferences, whether you prefer a classic rosemary and sea salt combination or something more adventurous with roasted vegetables and cheese. The key is to use high-quality ingredients and follow the instructions carefully to ensure a perfect result every time. This recipe creates a light, airy, and flavorful focaccia. This Focaccia bread will surely impress your family and friends. Make sure you drizzle a generous amount of olive oil and sea salt to create a perfectly balanced and flavorful Focaccia.

So, gather your ingredients and embark on this culinary adventure. With a little patience and practice, you’ll be baking the most delicious Focaccia in no time! The aroma of freshly baked Focaccia filling your kitchen is a reward in itself, and the taste will leave you wanting more. Happy baking!
