Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread

With Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread, you can bring the delightful aroma of freshly baked bread into your kitchen. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, snacks, or sandwiches. The soft and chewy texture combined with a hint of rosemary makes it a standout choice. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare with just a few ingredients and some time in the refrigerator.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Dough
• For Topping
• How to Make Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread
• Step 1: Mix the Dough
• Step 2: Oil the Dough
• Step 3: Prepare the Baking Pan
• Step 4: Shape the Dough
• Step 5: Preheat Oven
• Step 6: Dimples and Topping
• Step 7: Bake the Bread
• How to Serve Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread
• As a Snack
• For Breakfast
• At Lunch
• For Dinner
• How to Perfect Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread
• Best Side Dishes for Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread
• Reheating Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread?
• How do I know when my focaccia is done?
• Can I customize my Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread?
• How should I store leftovers of Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With minimal hands-on time, this focaccia is easy enough for any home baker.
• Versatile Use: Enjoy it as a side dish, sandwich bread, or even topped with your favorite ingredients.
• Flavorful Finish: The extra-virgin olive oil and flaky salt create a deliciously crispy crust.
• Customizable Toppings: Get creative! Add olives, tomatoes, or herbs for even more flavor.
• Impressive Presentation: Its rustic appearance makes it perfect for entertaining guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your focaccia, gather the necessary tools. These will help ensure that your baking process is smooth and successful.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon
• Plastic wrap
• Baking pan (9×13-inch)
• Non-stick spray
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows enough room for mixing and rising the dough comfortably.
• Baking pan: A 9×13-inch pan gives the focaccia its characteristic thickness and shape.
• Wire rack: Cooling on a wire rack prevents sogginess by allowing airflow around the bread.

Ingredients

With just a few simple ingredients and time in the refrigerator, you can make this soft, chewy, and flavorful focaccia bread at home. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, snacks, or sandwiches, this irresistible bread will impress every time!

For the Dough

• 500 g (4 cups) bread flour
• 7 g (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 480 g (2 cups) lukewarm water
• 6 tablespoons high-quality extra-virgin olive oil, divided

For Topping

• Flaky salt
• 1 tablespoon chopped rosemary (optional)

PIN THIS!

How to Make Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread

Step 1: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the bread flour. Add the yeast and kosher salt on opposite sides of the bowl to prevent direct contact initially. Use your fingers to mix the dry ingredients together and then create a well in the center. Pour in the lukewarm water, stirring with a wooden spoon until you form a wet, shaggy dough.

Step 2: Oil the Dough

Drizzle 30 g (2 tablespoons) of olive oil over the surface of the dough. Use your fingers to rub the oil over it gently. Wiggle the dough from the edges of the bowl to coat all sides with oil. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 18 hours or up to 72 hours.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Pan

Spray your 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick spray. Drizzle another 30 g (2 tablespoons) of olive oil in the center of the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

After refrigeration, remove your dough from the fridge. Use your fingers to pull its edges towards the center while rotating it in the bowl to form a ball. Transfer this dough to your prepared baking pan, turning it several times to coat all surfaces in olive oil. Leave uncovered to rise in a warm place for 3-4 hours until nearly filling the pan.

Step 5: Preheat Oven

Towards the end of your second rise, preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).

Step 6: Dimples and Topping

Drizzle another 30 g (2 tablespoons) of olive oil over your dough. Rub it over its surface before sprinkling evenly with chopped rosemary if using. Press straight down into the dough using your fingers to create deep dimples all over. If necessary, stretch it gently to fill any corners of the pan. Finally, sprinkle flaky salt over top.

Step 7: Bake the Bread

Bake for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown and pulling away from sides of pan. Allow cooling in pan for about five minutes before carefully transferring to a wire rack using a large metal spatula if needed. Let cool for an additional ten minutes before slicing and serving.

With these steps completed, you can enjoy your delicious homemade focaccia!

How to Serve Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread

Focaccia bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. It can serve as a delightful appetizer, a side dish, or even the star of your meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your focaccia experience.

As a Snack

• With Dip: Serve warm focaccia with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping, adding a touch of flavor.
• Cheese Board: Incorporate slices of focaccia into a cheese board with assorted cheeses, nuts, and fruits for an elegant presentation.

For Breakfast

• Sandwiches: Use focaccia to create breakfast sandwiches filled with eggs, bacon, and avocado for a hearty start to your day.
• Toast: Top slices with butter and jam or cream cheese for a simple yet delicious breakfast option.

At Lunch

• Paninis: Grill focaccia with your favorite fillings like turkey and cheese for a satisfying panini.
• Salad Croutons: Cut into cubes and toast pieces of focaccia to use as croutons in salads, adding texture and flavor.

For Dinner

• Side Dish: Serve alongside pasta dishes or soups to complement the meal perfectly.
• Pizza Base: Use the dough as a base for mini pizzas topped with your choice of ingredients.

How to Perfect Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread

To achieve the best results when making focaccia bread, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality olive oil for drizzling; it enhances flavor significantly.
• Bold Temperature Control: Ensure your water is lukewarm to activate the yeast properly, leading to better rise.
• Bold Kneading Technique: Avoid over-kneading; just mix until combined for that perfect soft texture.
• Bold Rising Time: Allow ample time for the dough to rise; longer rises develop more flavor.
• Bold Dimpling Technique: Create deep dimples on top before baking; this helps retain moisture in the bread.
• Bold Baking Surface: Use a preheated baking stone if possible; it promotes even cooking and crispy edges.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread

Pairing side dishes with your homemade focaccia can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement its flavors well.

1. Bruschetta: Fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil on toasted bread make a refreshing starter.
2. Caprese Salad: Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze for a classic combination.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized make for a hearty side dish.
4. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad featuring olives and sun-dried tomatoes can bring out the flavors of focaccia.
5. Garlic Soup: A warm garlic soup pairs beautifully with the bread’s texture while providing comforting warmth.
6. Charcuterie Board: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and nuts creates an inviting spread alongside focaccia.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to avoid common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using Cold Water: Cold water can hinder the yeast activation process. Always ensure your water is lukewarm for best results.
• Skipping the Refrigeration: Not allowing the dough to rest in the fridge can lead to dense bread. Refrigerate for at least 18 hours to develop flavor and texture.
• Overworking the Dough: Kneading too much can make focaccia tough. Mix just until combined for a soft, chewy texture.
• Ignoring Rising Time: Rushing the rising process means less flavor and a dense loaf. Allow sufficient time for the dough to rise properly.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven affects the bread’s texture and rise. Always preheat your oven before baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store focaccia in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep it at room temperature to maintain its texture.

Freezing Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread

• Wrap focaccia tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread?

Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread is a soft, flavorful Italian bread made with simple ingredients, perfect for various meals.

How do I know when my focaccia is done?

The focaccia is done when it turns golden brown and pulls away from the edges of the pan.

Can I customize my Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread?

Absolutely! You can add toppings like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or different herbs to suit your taste.

How should I store leftovers of Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread?

Store any leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze it for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will elevate any meal. Its simplicity allows for endless customization—feel free to experiment with toppings or herbs. Try making this bread today; you won’t be disappointed!

---