How to Make the Best Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe

Hey there, fellow bread lovers! Today, I’m super excited to share with you my secrets for making the best easy focaccia bread recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen. There’s something truly special about homemade bread, and this Italian classic is no exception. Soft, pillowy, and infused with herby goodness, this focaccia is perfect for dipping, serving alongside your favorite soups, or even as a base for sandwiches. The best part? It’s incredibly simple to make, even if you’re a beginner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for quick family dinners or 30-minute meals.
• No complicated ingredients—just simple, wholesome stuff you probably already have in your pantry.
• Customizable! Add your favorite herbs, spices, or even some grated cheese to make it your own.
• Great for beginners. If you’ve never worked with yeast before, this is a fantastic starting point.
• It’s perfect for serving with easy pasta recipes or as a side for your weeknight dinner ideas.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious homemade focaccia bread recipe:

• 4 cups (500g) bread flour or all-purpose flour
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast or instant yeast
• 2 teaspoons (10g) salt
• 1 3/4 cups (415ml) warm water
• 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves
• Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process for making this easy focaccia dough recipe. Don’t worry, it’s simpler than you think!

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly. This step is crucial for ensuring your bread rises beautifully.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the flour mixture to the yeast mixture, along with the olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment if you prefer.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Shape the Dough: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the dough to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Gently shape it into a rectangle or oval shape, about 1/2 inch thick.
7. Dimple the Dough: Use your fingers to create dimples all over the dough. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and sprinkle with rosemary leaves and coarse sea salt.
8. Second Rise: Let the dough rise for another 20-30 minutes before baking.
9. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and cooked through.
10. Cool and Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are a few tips to ensure your Italian focaccia bread turns out perfectly every time:

• Use the Right Flour: Bread flour is ideal for this recipe because of its higher protein content, which gives the bread its chewy texture. However, all-purpose flour works too if that’s what you have on hand.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until the ingredients come together. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough bread.
• Let It Rise: Don’t skip the rising time. This is what gives the bread its light, airy texture.
• Customize It: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Garlic, herbs, cheese, or even some dried fruit can add amazing flavor to your focaccia.

How to Serve

Focaccia is incredibly versatile, and there are so many ways to enjoy it:

• As a side to your favorite soups or stews.
• Paired with a fresh green salad.
• As a base for sandwiches or paninis.
• Dipped in olive oil, balsamic vinegar, or your favorite dip.
• Alongside a hearty pasta dish, like creamy garlic pasta or your go-to easy pasta recipes.

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about this homemade focaccia bread recipe is that it can be prepared ahead of time:

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough up to the first rise, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before proceeding.
• Storage: Once baked, focaccia can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
• Freezing: You can also freeze the dough after the first rise for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and let it come to room temperature before baking.

And there you have it—your new go-to easy delicious bread recipes that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick side for your weeknight dinner ideas or a special treat for the weekend, this bread with yeast recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Happy baking! 🍞✨