Created on November 21st, 2025 at 09:19 am
A fragrant Italian bread, perfect for sharing
Focaccia is an Italian bread known for its light, airy interior and crisp, golden crust. It carries the essence of olive oil, with distinctive dimples on its surface that hold herbs and seasoning. This bread is versatile enough to serve as a side, a sandwich base, or simply enjoyed on its own. The aroma of freshly baked focaccia wafts through the kitchen, inviting everyone to savor a piece. Its slightly chewy texture contrasts beautifully with a tender crumb, making each bite satisfying.
Nothing beats the warmth of homemade focaccia when it emerges from the oven. Its olive oil-soaked exterior offers a rich flavor that pairs well with everything from balsamic vinegar to roasted vegetables.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s something wonderfully satisfying about baking focaccia at home. The simplicity of the ingredients results in a bread that is bursting with flavor. The process is forgiving, allowing room for creativity with toppings like rosemary, olives, or even sun-dried tomatoes. The dough rises beautifully, creating an airy structure that holds up well against various toppings.
Best of all, focaccia improves in flavor the next day, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or gatherings. Serve it with a homemade dipping oil or alongside a hearty soup for a comforting meal.
Time Breakdown
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours (including rising)
Servings: 8
Ingredients List
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 1 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
- Optional: fresh rosemary, sea salt, or other herbs for topping
Kitchen Tools
This recipe relies on everyday kitchen tools. You won’t need anything fancy to create this beautiful bread.
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet or pan
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Kitchen towel
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to work.
- Add the flour, salt, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a rough dough forms, then knead by hand for about 5 minutes until smooth and slightly sticky.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Once the dough has risen, gently deflate it and transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spread the dough out with your fingers, creating dimples all over the surface. Drizzle generously with olive oil, and sprinkle with sea salt and any desired herbs or toppings.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before cutting into squares.
Pro Tips
- For a deeper flavor, use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
- Experiment with toppings like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or caramelized onions.
- Ensure the yeast is fresh and not expired for a good rise.
- Let the bread cool slightly before slicing to maintain its texture.
Homemade Simplicity
Focaccia is a delightful bread that embodies comfort in its simplest form. Each bite offers a warm combination of crispness and a chewy crumb. Its adaptability allows for various toppings, and its flavor deepens as it rests, making it a joy to enjoy the next day. This dish proves that gourmet comfort can be simple and satisfying.
Nutrition Table
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Focaccia
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 1 tsp active dry yeast
- 1.5 tsp salt
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
Optional toppings
- fresh rosemary, sea salt, or other herbs for topping
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
- Add the flour, salt, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a rough dough forms, then knead by hand for about 5 minutes until smooth and slightly sticky.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Once the dough has risen, gently deflate it and transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spread the dough out with your fingers, creating dimples all over the surface. Drizzle generously with olive oil, and sprinkle with sea salt and any desired herbs or toppings.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before cutting into squares.
Notes
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