Name: Easy Focaccia Bread
Prep time: 100 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 120 min
Ingredients: 0.5 cups extra-virgin olive oil (divided use); 2 cloves garlic (finely minced); 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried); 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried); 0.25 teaspoons fresh ground black pepper; 1 cups lukewarm water (110°F to 115°F); 2.25 teaspoons instant yeast (one ¼-ounce packet); 0.25 teaspoons sugar (or honey or maple syrup); 2.5 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon fine sea salt

Introduction to Easy Focaccia Bread

Focaccia is a beloved Italian flatbread that stands out as the perfect homemade bread for good reason. Not only is it incredibly simple to make, but its versatility is unmatched. Whether you're enjoying a quiet dinner at home or hosting friends, easy focaccia bread makes an excellent sidekick for any meal. Its airy texture and rich flavor, especially when infused with olive oil and fresh herbs, make it a mouthwatering addition to your dining table.

One of the beauties of focaccia is that it requires minimal equipment and expertise. You don't need a fancy stand mixer or advanced baking skills. Instead, all you need is a mixing bowl, a baking pan, and a little patience while your dough rises. As a bonus, you can customize it with toppings like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of sea salt.

Interesting fact: Focaccia dates back to ancient times, with roots in the Mediterranean. It’s not just a bread; it’s a canvas for culinary creativity! For more inspiration and variations, check out this focaccia guide, which dives into different styles and toppings you may want to experiment with.

So let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into making some delicious, homemade focaccia that will impress anyone who tastes it!

Ingredients for Easy Focaccia Bread

Essential ingredients for the best focaccia

Creating easy focaccia bread begins with a handful of simple, yet high-quality ingredients. They include:

½ cup extra-virgin olive oil: This is the star ingredient! A flavorful olive oil enhances the bread's overall taste.
2 garlic cloves, finely minced: Garlic adds a savory note that pairs beautifully with olive oil.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried): Rosemary offers an aromatic touch, infusing the bread with a delightful fragrance.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried): Thyme complements rosemary well, bringing warmth and depth to the flavor.
1 cup lukewarm water: It’s essential for activating the yeast.
2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast: This is your leavening agent, helping the dough rise.
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of any great focaccia.
1 teaspoon fine sea salt: Enhances all the flavors in your focaccia!

Optional ingredients for flavor enhancements

Want to take your focaccia to the next level? Consider these optional additions:

Herbs like oregano or basil: Sprinkle these on top for extra flavor.
Cheese: Adding feta or parmesan before baking creates a mouthwatering crust.
Olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or caramelized onions: These ingredients add texture and richness.
Balsamic glaze: Drizzling this on top after baking adds a touch of sweetness and acidity.

Getting creative with these ingredients can make your focaccia not just easy but unforgettable! For more on improving home baking skills, check this expert guide.

Preparing Easy Focaccia Bread

If you’ve ever tasted freshly baked focaccia, you know it’s a game-changer. This easy focaccia bread recipe is straightforward, fun, and requires no special equipment. Let’s walk through the preparation step by step, making this a delightful experience for both novice and seasoned bakers!

Infuse the Olive Oil

Start by infusing your olive oil with some aromatic flavors. In a medium skillet, combine ½ cup of extra-virgin olive oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme, and ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper.

Place the skillet over low heat and stir occasionally for about 5 to 10 minutes. The goal here isn’t to brown the garlic—just let those fragrant oils release and meld together. Once the mixture is fragrant, take it off the heat and set aside to cool. This infused oil adds incredible flavor to your easy focaccia bread.

Activate the Yeast

In a large bowl, mix 1 cup lukewarm water (at 110°F to 115°F) with 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast and ¼ teaspoon sugar. Let this sit for about 5 minutes. You’re looking for the yeast to activate, creating a frothy layer on top. This step is crucial, as it’s what helps your dough rise beautifully!

Combine the Ingredients

Now, it’s time to combine everything. Add 1 cup of flour and ¼ cup of your cooled infused olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir gently until the flour is just moistened, then let it rest for another 5 minutes. This rest allows the flour to hydrate and makes mixing easier.

Next, stir in the remaining 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon fine sea salt until the dough comes together.

Knead the Dough

Transfer your dough onto a floured surface. For this easy focaccia bread, you don’t need to over-knead—just 10 to 15 gentle kneads until smooth will do the trick.

Allow the Dough to Rise

Place the dough in a large oiled bowl, covering it with a warm, damp towel. Let it rise at room temperature until it doubles in size, which can take 1 to 2 hours. If you prefer, this dough can be proofed overnight in the fridge, making it even more flavorful.

Shape and Dimple the Dough

Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking sheet with 2 tablespoons of the reserved garlic-olive oil mixture. Gently stretch and press the dough into the pan. Next, use your fingers to create dimples across the surface—this allows the oil to pool beautifully, creating a stunning texture.

Bake to Golden Perfection

Finally, let your shaped dough rise for another 20 to 30 minutes until puffy, then pop it in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes. Look for a beautiful golden-brown crust, and let it cool before slicing.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this delicious, easy focaccia bread—a perfect companion for soups, salads, or just on its own! Check out this guide on bread baking to explore further about different bread types and techniques. Happy baking!

Variations on Easy Focaccia Bread

Herb Focaccia

For a delightful twist on your easy focaccia bread, try adding fresh herbs. Mix in a handful of chopped fresh basil, oregano, or parsley into the dough, or use them as toppings before baking. The aroma will fill your kitchen, and the flavor adds a fresh punch that perfectly complements any meal or can simply pair with olive oil for dipping.

Mediterranean Focaccia with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Transform your easy focaccia bread into a Mediterranean delight by incorporating sliced olives and chopped sun-dried tomatoes directly into the dough. This variation not only serves as a flavorful snack but also makes an impressive side for your favorite Mediterranean dishes. For added richness, sprinkle feta cheese on top before baking.

Feel free to explore and mix flavors that inspire you! Don't hesitate to check out The Spruce Eats for more delicious focaccia topping ideas.

Baking Notes for Easy Focaccia Bread

Storing Leftovers Properly

To keep your easy focaccia bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to enjoy it beyond that, freeze it! Wrap the cooled focaccia tightly in plastic wrap or a freezer bag, and it will stay good for up to a month. When you're ready to eat, just let it thaw or pop it in the oven for a quick reheat.

Overnight Dough Proofing Tips

For an incredibly flavorful focaccia, consider overnight proofing. Simply oil your dough, place it in a bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 12 hours (up to 3 days!). This slow rise enhances the texture and taste. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours before following the baking directions. This approach is perfect for busy schedules!

For more tips on proofing, check out King Arthur Baking's guide on yeast doughs.

Serving Suggestions for Easy Focaccia Bread

Focaccia as a Side Dish

This easy focaccia bread makes a delightful side dish for various meals. Pair it with soups, salads, or grilled vegetables for a comforting touch to your dinner. The infused garlic and herbs elevate your dish, turning an ordinary meal into something special. Try it alongside a hearty minestrone soup or a refreshing arugula salad. The bread is perfect for soaking up flavors, making each bite a little indulgent.

Using Focaccia for Sandwiches or Appetizers

Transform your focaccia into a sensational sandwich bread! Slice it into thick pieces, fill it with turkey bacon, chicken ham, fresh veggies, or pesto for a lunchtime treat that stands out. If you’re feeling creative, consider using it as a base for appetizers—layer with your favorite cheeses, sliced tomatoes, or olives for a delightful antipasto platter. The possibilities are endless! For more ideas, check out this guide on focaccia sandwiches.

Tips for Making Perfect Easy Focaccia Bread

Importance of High-Quality Olive Oil

When crafting easy focaccia bread, the olive oil you choose matters immensely. A high-quality, extra-virgin olive oil not only contributes rich flavor but also enhances the texture of the bread. Aim for an oil you genuinely enjoy, as its taste will shine through every slice. Brands like Partanna offer a great balance between quality and affordability, making them perfect for your focaccia adventure.

Best Practices for Dough Consistency

Achieving the right dough consistency is crucial for that classic focaccia texture. The dough should be sticky but manageable; if it’s too dry, your bread will end up tough. If you find your dough too wet, a light dusting of flour can help. Remember, the beauty of focaccia lies in its rustic charm—don’t be afraid of a little mess! For further guidance, consult this dough consistency guide.

Time Details for Easy Focaccia Bread

Preparation Time

Getting started on your easy focaccia bread is a breeze! You'll need about 10-15 minutes to gather your ingredients and prepare the dough, ensuring all components are ready to go.

Rising Time

Patience is key with this delicious bread. Allow your dough to rise for 1 to 2 hours at room temperature until it's doubled in size. Alternatively, you can opt for an overnight rise in the fridge for a deeper flavor.

Baking Time

Once your dough has puffed up to perfection, it's time to bake! Preheat your oven and let the focaccia bake for 15 to 20 minutes until it’s beautifully golden. Then, let it cool slightly before slicing into those tempting, airy pieces.

This timing results in a perfectly textured focaccia that you'll want to enjoy fresh. For more recipe tips, you might also check out King Arthur Baking for expert insights on baking techniques. Happy baking!

Nutritional Information for Easy Focaccia Bread

Calories per Serving

Each small slice of this easy focaccia bread contains approximately 134 calories. That makes it a satisfying yet light option for any meal or snack, perfect for those looking to enjoy something delicious without going overboard.

Fat Content

In terms of fat, you’ll find about 7.2 grams per slice. While it sounds like a lot, keep in mind that extra-virgin olive oil packs health benefits, including heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. So, you can indulge without the guilt!

Carbohydrate Content

A slice of this mouthwatering bread contains 15.4 grams of carbohydrates. This makes it a great choice for artisanal bread lovers searching for a way to complement their meals without overwhelming their carb counts. Pair it with your favorite dips or soups for a delightful combination!

For more info on healthy fats, check out the article on the benefits of olive oil.

FAQs about Easy Focaccia Bread

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Absolutely! If you prefer a heartier texture and more nutritional benefits, whole wheat flour can be a great substitute for all-purpose flour. Keep in mind that using whole wheat may slightly change the texture and flavor of your easy focaccia bread, but it will still be delicious! For the best results, consider blending whole wheat with some all-purpose flour.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Enhancing your focaccia with toppings is a fun way to personalize your easy focaccia bread. Try adding:

Sun-dried tomatoes
Olives or feta cheese
Fresh herbs like basil or oregano
Slice red onions or roasted garlic

These additions can create unique flavor profiles, making your focaccia even more irresistible.

How do I know when my focaccia is done?

You’ll know your focaccia is ready when it turns a beautiful golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. For the perfect texture, aim for a crisp outside and fluffy interior. If you’re unsure, a quick poke in the center should reveal a soft, airy crumb. Enjoy your baking!

Conclusion on Easy Focaccia Bread

In conclusion, this easy focaccia bread recipe is a delightful way to elevate any meal. With its minimal ingredients and no-knead technique, it’s perfect for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. Enjoy the aroma and flavor of fresh bread in your home, and remember, it’s twice as good when shared!

For more tips on bread baking, check out resources like King Arthur Baking and The Fresh Loaf. Happy baking!