Unleash the aroma of freshly baked bread in your kitchen with this Homemade Focaccia Bread recipe. Focaccia, a staple in Italian cuisine, is renowned for its airy texture and flavorful toppings of rosemary and salt. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures a deliciously crisp yet soft bread that’s perfect for a side dish, sandwich base, or simply enjoyed with a drizzle of olive oil.
Rustic and Robust Homemade Focaccia
Baking bread at home can be a rewarding endeavor, and this focaccia recipe is no exception. With its dimpled surface drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with rosemary, it’s as visually appealing as it is tasty. Perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, this focaccia will bring a taste of Italy right into your dining room.
- Preparation time: 20 minutes (plus rising time)
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Serving: Makes one large sheet
- Equipment: Large bowl, baking sheet
Recipe: Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread
Follow these simple steps to create a bread that’s impressively versatile and satisfyingly flavorful.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 cups warm water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 2 tablespoons rosemary, fresh or dried
- Coarse salt for sprinkling
Directions:
- Prepare the Yeast Mixture: In a large bowl, dissolve sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it stand until the mixture is frothy, about 10 minutes, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make the Dough: Add flour, 2 teaspoons of salt, and 1/4 cup olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough starts to form. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes, or until it’s smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, turning once to coat with oil. Cover with a damp cloth and set aside in a warm place to rise until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.
- Shape and Second Rise: After the dough has doubled, punch it down gently. Stretch and press the dough flat onto a greased baking sheet. Cover and let it rise again until puffy, about 30 minutes.
- Preheat and Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Using your fingertips, create dimples across the top of the risen dough. Drizzle with additional olive oil and sprinkle evenly with rosemary and coarse salt.
- Bake: Place the focaccia in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Slice into pieces and serve warm.
Ready to Enjoy
Your Homemade Focaccia Bread is now ready to dazzle your taste buds. Serve it as an appetizer with dips, as a side to your main dishes, or enjoy it on its own to truly appreciate its flavors. This bread’s combination of crunchy crust and soft interior, along with the aromatic touch of rosemary, makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Delight in the simplicity and elegance of homemade focaccia, and let it transform your meal into a special occasion.
