Name: Crowd-Pleasing Focaccia Bread Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-489310H5M16S
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Cuisine: Americans
Ingredients: • 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour• 1 teaspoon (5g) active dry yeast• 1 1/2 teaspoons (9g) salt• 1 1/4 cups (300ml) warm water• 3 tablespoons (45ml) extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling• 2 tablespoons (10g) fresh rosemary, chopped• 1 tablespoon (5g) fresh thyme, chopped• 3 cloves (15g) garlic, minced• Coarse sea salt for sprinkling

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Imagine a world where bread is not just a sidekick, but the star of the show. Welcome to the realm of focaccia, a rustic Italian flatbread that has captivated the hearts and taste buds of bread enthusiasts around the globe. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure as we unveil the secrets to baking a truly crowd-pleasing focaccia bread that will have your guests clamoring for more.

There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked focaccia wafting through the air, its golden-brown crust beckoning you to take a bite. The pillowy soft interior, infused with the flavors of fragrant herbs and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving for another slice. This recipe is not just about satisfying your hunger, but about creating a culinary experience that will delight all your senses.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this focaccia bread recipe is sure to become a family favorite. With its versatility, you can enjoy it as a side to your favorite Italian dishes, or even as a delightful snack on its own. So, let’s dive in and unlock the secrets to baking a truly remarkable focaccia bread that will have your loved ones raving about your culinary prowess.

💖 What Makes This Recipe Truly Special?

What sets this focaccia bread recipe apart is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The key lies in the careful selection of ingredients and the meticulous attention to detail during the baking process. By using a combination of high-quality all-purpose flour, yeast, and a touch of olive oil, we achieve a dough that is both pillowy soft and delightfully chewy.

The real magic, however, happens when we introduce the aromatic herbs and spices. The fragrant blend of rosemary, thyme, and garlic not only adds depth to the flavor profile but also creates a sensory experience that will transport you straight to the heart of the Italian countryside. The final touch of drizzling the freshly baked focaccia with a high-quality extra virgin olive oil completes the masterpiece, leaving you with a bread that is both visually stunning and utterly delicious.

🛒 Ingredients: Your Shopping List

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon (5g) active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 teaspoons (9g) salt
• 1 1/4 cups (300ml) warm water
• 3 tablespoons (45ml) extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• 2 tablespoons (10g) fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon (5g) fresh thyme, chopped
• 3 cloves (15g) garlic, minced
• Coarse sea salt for sprinkling

The key to this focaccia bread recipe is the use of high-quality all-purpose flour. The protein content in the flour plays a crucial role in developing the gluten structure, which is responsible for the bread’s signature chewy texture. Additionally, the addition of fresh herbs, such as rosemary and thyme, adds a fragrant and earthy element that complements the richness of the olive oil perfectly. Don’t be afraid to experiment with other herb combinations to suit your personal taste preferences.

📝 Let’s Get Cooking: Detailed Instructions

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the warm water and 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients until a shaggy dough forms. This gentle mixing helps to avoid overworking the gluten, resulting in a more tender crumb.
Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. This kneading process develops the gluten, which is crucial for the bread’s structure and chewiness.
First Proof: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size. This first proof allows the yeast to work its magic, creating air pockets that will result in a light and airy focaccia.
Prepare the Baking Pan: While the dough is proofing, generously grease a 13×9-inch baking pan with olive oil. This will ensure the focaccia doesn’t stick to the pan and also create a crispy, golden-brown crust on the bottom.
Punch Down and Shape: Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Transfer the dough to the prepared baking pan and use your fingers to gently stretch and press it into an even layer, reaching the edges of the pan. This shaping process helps to create those signature dimples on the surface of the focaccia.
Second Proof: Cover the dough with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes. This second proof will help the dough relax and develop even more pockets of air.
Add the Toppings: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Use your fingertips to dimple the surface of the dough, creating those iconic indentations. Sprinkle the chopped rosemary, thyme, and minced garlic evenly over the top. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the dough, ensuring it seeps into the dimples.
Bake to Perfection: Bake the focaccia for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are crispy. Keep a close eye on it to ensure the garlic doesn’t burn. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be simply irresistible.
Finish and Serve: Remove the focaccia from the oven and immediately sprinkle it with a generous amount of coarse sea salt. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. The fresh herbs and olive oil will continue to infuse the bread with their flavors, creating a truly memorable experience.

⏱️ Timing Overview

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 25-30 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 50 minutes

💪 Understanding the Nutritional Value

Nutritional information is an estimate per serving, based on 12 servings.

• Calories: 263 kcal
• Protein: 6 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fat: 10 g
• Fiber: 2 g

🎨 Make It Your Own: Substitutions & Ideas

• For a Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend, such as a 1:1 ratio of rice flour, tapioca flour, and potato starch. You may need to adjust the liquid content slightly to achieve the right dough consistency.

• To Make it Vegan: Replace the egg with a flax or chia seed egg (1 tablespoon ground flax or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water), and use a plant-based milk in place of the dairy milk.

• To Add a Spicy Kick: Incorporate a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or finely chopped fresh chilies into the dough or sprinkle them over the top before baking for a delightful spicy twist.

🍽️ Plating and Presentation Tips

• Main Course Pairing: Serve the focaccia bread alongside a hearty Italian meal, such as a classic spaghetti and meatballs or a flavorful Mediterranean-style pasta dish.

• Garnish Suggestions: Garnish the freshly baked focaccia with a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, and a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme for a visually stunning presentation.

• Beverage Pairing: This focaccia bread pairs wonderfully with a crisp, dry white wine, such as a Pinot Grigio or a Sauvignon Blanc, or a refreshing Italian sparkling water with a twist of lemon.

❗ Pro Tips for a Perfect Outcome Every Time

• Mistake 1 – Overcrowding the Pan: Avoid overcrowding the baking pan, as this can lead to the focaccia steaming instead of achieving a crispy, golden-brown crust. Be sure to use a 13×9-inch pan and spread the dough evenly to the edges.

• Mistake 2 – Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure that all the ingredients, especially the water, are at room temperature or slightly warm. Cold ingredients can inhibit the yeast’s ability to activate and result in a dense, heavy texture.

• Mistake 3 – Not Preheating the Oven: Preheat your oven to the correct temperature before baking the focaccia. A properly preheated oven is crucial for achieving the perfect rise and crust.

📦 How to Keep Your Leftovers Fresh

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover focaccia in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Focaccia can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place it in a resealable freezer bag. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and then warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.

• Reheating: For the best texture, reheat the focaccia in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the crust is crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.

❓ FAQs

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute the fresh herbs with dried herbs, but the flavor profile will be slightly different. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary and 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme. Keep in mind that dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor, so you may need to adjust the quantities to suit your taste preferences.

How can I achieve a crispier crust?

To get an extra crispy crust, try drizzling a bit of olive oil in the dimples of the dough before baking. You can also sprinkle the top with a generous amount of coarse sea salt, which will help draw out moisture and create a crunchier texture. Additionally, baking the focaccia on the lower rack of your oven can help crisp up the bottom crust.

Can I make the dough in advance?

Absolutely! The focaccia dough can be made a day in advance. After the first rise, punch down the dough, transfer it to a lightly greased bowl, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the dough from the fridge, bring it to room temperature, and proceed with the second rise and baking instructions.

How do I know when the focaccia is done baking?

The focaccia is ready when the top is golden brown and the edges are crispy. You can also gently press on the center of the dough – it should feel soft but not overly jiggly. For an extra golden-brown crust, you can broil the focaccia for 1-2 minutes at the end of the baking time, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Can I add other toppings to the focaccia?

Absolutely! Focaccia is a versatile canvas for all sorts of toppings. Try adding sliced cherry tomatoes, caramelized onions, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even crumbled feta cheese. Just be mindful of not overloading the dough, as too many toppings can weigh it down and affect the rise.

💌 Enjoy Your Delicious Creation!

Baking a perfect focaccia bread is not just about following a recipe – it’s about creating a sensory experience that will delight your taste buds and bring your loved ones together. This crowd-pleasing masterpiece is a true testament to the power of simple, high-quality ingredients and the artistry of bread-making. As you slice into the golden-brown crust and savor the pillowy soft interior, you’ll be transported to the heart of Italy, where the love for good food and even better company is woven into the very fabric of the culture.

So, gather your friends and family, pour a glass of your favorite beverage, and indulge in the pure bliss of this exceptional focaccia bread. With each bite, you’ll experience the perfect harmony of flavors and textures, leaving you craving for more. Buon appetito!