Foolproof Focaccia: Easy Homemade Bread Anyone Can Bake

Introduction

Transform humble ingredients into a golden-brown, airy masterpiece with this easy focaccia bread recipe! Forget complicated techniques – this recipe prioritizes simplicity and speed, allowing you to enjoy homemade, restaurant-quality bread without the fuss. A touch of creativity with toppings makes it perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a special gathering.

Why This Works

This recipe works because it strikes the perfect balance of flavor and ease. The simple ingredient list makes it accessible to everyone, while the technique is straightforward enough for even beginner bakers. The result? A deliciously flavorful focaccia with a crispy crust and a soft, airy interior that impresses with minimal effort. It’s the perfect blank canvas for your favorite herbs, cheeses, and oils.

Key Ingredients

🍞 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
🌿 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
🧂 1 teaspoon sugar
🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
🥚 1 large egg
🧈 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for greasing
🌾 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
🧂 1 teaspoon salt
🌿 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1️⃣ In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2️⃣ Add minced garlic, egg, and 2 tablespoons olive oil to the yeast mixture. Whisk to combine.
3️⃣ Gradually add flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
4️⃣ Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.
5️⃣ Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
6️⃣ Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C). Generously grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with olive oil.
7️⃣ Punch down the dough and transfer it to the prepared pan. Gently stretch and press the dough to fill the pan.
8️⃣ Drizzle the focaccia with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped rosemary (if using). Use your fingers to create dimples in the surface of the dough.
9️⃣ Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
🔟 Let cool slightly in the pan before slicing and serving.

Handy Tips

• For a richer flavor, use a high-quality olive oil.
• If you don’t have fresh rosemary, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary.
• Don’t over-knead the dough, or the focaccia will be tough.
• If the dough is too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it’s manageable.

Heat Control

The oven temperature of 450°F (232°C) is crucial for achieving a crispy crust and a soft interior. Monitor the focaccia closely during the last 5-10 minutes of baking, as ovens can vary. The focaccia is done when it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Crunch Factor

The crunchy crust is achieved by baking the focaccia at a high temperature and by using olive oil to create a crisp exterior. The dimples in the dough allow for even baking and prevent steam from building up, which would make the crust soggy.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For easier cleanup, line your baking pan with parchment paper.
• To speed up the rising process, place the dough in a warm place, such as near a sunny window or on top of a preheated oven (turned off).
• Add a sprinkle of sea salt to the top of the focaccia before baking for extra flavor.

Storage Tips

Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the focaccia in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in a toaster oven or oven until warmed through.

Gift Packaging Ideas

Wrap individual slices of focaccia in parchment paper and tie with a ribbon. Or, cut the focaccia into squares and arrange them in a pretty basket lined with parchment paper. Add a small jar of your favorite olive oil or a sprig of rosemary for an extra special touch.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Mediterranean Focaccia: Add sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese to the dough before baking.
🌟 Garlic & Herb Focaccia: Increase the amount of garlic and add other herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil.
🌟 Spicy Focaccia: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dough for a little heat.
🌟 Cheese Focaccia: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, or provolone cheese over the focaccia before baking.

Troubleshooting

• Tough Focaccia: This is usually caused by over-kneading the dough. Make sure to knead only until the dough is smooth and elastic.
• Soggy Focaccia: This can be caused by not baking the focaccia long enough or by using too much oil. Make sure to bake the focaccia until it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

FAQ

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Be aware that gluten-free flour can behave differently, so you may need to adjust the amount of liquid.
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
• How do I scale this recipe? You can easily double or triple this recipe. Just remember to adjust baking time accordingly.
• Can I use a different type of yeast? Instant yeast can be used as a substitute for active dry yeast.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy this easy and delicious focaccia bread recipe! Share your creations with us and experiment with different toppings and flavors to find your perfect combination. Happy baking!