Focaccia Bread – Soft, Fluffy, and Perfectly Golden
Focaccia bread is a classic Italian flatbread known for its soft, airy interior, golden crust, and dimpled surface. Often flavored with olive oil, fresh herbs, and sea salt, focaccia is versatile—perfect as a snack, side dish, or sandwich base.
Originating from Liguria, Italy, this bread has become a worldwide favorite for its simplicity and flavor. Making focaccia at home is easier than it seems, and this recipe ensures a soft, fluffy texture with a crisp, fragrant crust every time.
Ingredients (Makes 1 Large Focaccia – 9×13 inch)
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (420 g)
- 1 cup warm water (110°F / 45°C)
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 2 tsp sugar
- 2 tsp salt
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil (plus 2 tbsp for brushing)
- 2 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- Coarse sea salt for sprinkling
Optional toppings: sliced olives, cherry tomatoes, caramelized onions, or garlic
Step by Step Cooking Guide
- Activate yeast – In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix dough – In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and ¼ cup olive oil. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead – Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
- First rise – Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
- Shape dough – Press dough into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Use fingertips to create dimples across the surface.
- Second rise – Cover dough and let rest for 20–30 minutes.
- Add toppings – Drizzle 2 tbsp olive oil over dough. Sprinkle with rosemary and coarse sea salt. Add optional toppings if desired.
- Bake – Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool and serve – Allow to cool slightly in pan before slicing.
Cooking Time & Serving Size
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Rise Time: 1–1.5 hours
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Serving Size: 1 slice (makes 12 servings)
Tips & Variations
- Extra fluffy: Add 1 tbsp milk to the dough.
- Herb variations: Use thyme, oregano, or basil for different flavors.
- Cheesy focaccia: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top before baking.
- Sweet focaccia: Drizzle honey and add sliced figs for a dessert-style bread.
- Make ahead: Dough can be refrigerated overnight for deeper flavor.
Nutrition Info (Per Slice – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
Healthy Alternatives
- Low-Oil: Reduce olive oil to 2 tbsp in dough, plus 1 tbsp for topping.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and adjust water as needed.
- Keto-Friendly: Use almond flour and mozzarella cheese as base; note texture will differ.
- Whole Wheat: Substitute half the flour with whole wheat for a heartier bread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve focaccia bread warm with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping, alongside soups or salads, or use it as a sandwich base. Its versatility makes it a perfect addition to any meal or appetizer platter.
Homemade focaccia is both comforting and impressive, and mastering this recipe gives you a bakery-quality bread right in your kitchen.
FAQ’s
Q1: Why is my focaccia dense?
Ensure your yeast is active and dough rises adequately. Knead dough until elastic, and don’t skip the second rise.
Q2: Can I make focaccia ahead of time?
Yes! Bake and cool completely, then wrap in foil or store in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven for freshness.
Q3: Can I freeze focaccia?
Yes, freeze fully cooled bread wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Q4: How do I get dimples on the focaccia?
Use your fingertips to press into the dough gently before baking. This helps the olive oil pool and gives traditional texture.
Q5: Can I add toppings?
Absolutely! Try olives, cherry tomatoes, roasted garlic, caramelized onions, or a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor.
