Focaccia Bread Recipe (with Video)

Focaccia Bread Recipe: Focaccia bread is a beloved Italian classic, known for its rich flavor, airy texture, and versatility. Originating from Liguria, Italy, this flatbread boasts a unique charm, whether served as a simple snack, a side dish, or the star of a meal. Its pillowy interior and crisp golden crust make it irresistible.

Why is Focaccia such a favorite? It’s easy to prepare, infinitely customizable, and pairs well with virtually any dish. Once you master this recipe, you’ll see why it’s a staple in Italian kitchens—and it might just become one in yours, too.

Key Ingredients for Focaccia Bread

Before we dive into the process, let’s gather the essentials:

1. Flour – All-purpose flour works well, but bread flour is preferred for extra chewiness.
2. Water – Lukewarm water ensures proper yeast activation.
3. Yeast – Active dry or instant yeast helps the dough rise beautifully.
4. Salt – Enhances flavor and strengthens the dough structure.
5. Olive Oil – Adds richness and creates that iconic golden crust.

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh rosemary
• Sea salt flakes
• Olives
• Cherry tomatoes
• Garlic and onion slices

Feel free to mix and match toppings to create your perfect Focaccia.

Tools and Equipment Needed

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or dough whisk
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Kitchen scale (optional but highly recommended)
• Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Oven thermometer (to ensure accuracy)

No fancy equipment? No problem! Many steps can be done by hand or with simple household tools.

Preparing Your Workspace

Creating Focaccia requires some love and attention to detail. Start by clearing and cleaning your workspace. Ensure the room temperature is warm (around 75°F/24°C is ideal) for the dough to rise effectively. If your kitchen is cool, place the dough near a warm spot, like near the oven or a sunny window.

Step 1: Mixing the Dough

The foundation of great Focaccia begins with the dough. Here’s how to get started:

1. In a large bowl, combine 3 ½ cups of flour, 1 ¼ cups of lukewarm water, 1 packet of active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons), and 2 teaspoons of salt.
2. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Don’t overwork it; a few lumps are okay at this stage.
3. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and fold it into the dough. This step helps develop flavor and elasticity.

The dough will be soft and sticky—that’s perfect for Focaccia.

Step 2: First Rise

Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm area for 1–2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, placing the bowl in a slightly warmed (but turned-off) oven can speed up the process. Check every 30 minutes to ensure the dough doesn’t over-proof.

Step 3: Preparing the Pan

While the dough rises, prepare your baking pan. Generously grease a 9×13-inch pan with olive oil. This ensures the Focaccia doesn’t stick and gives the bottom a golden, crispy texture.

Step 4: Shaping the Dough

Once your dough has doubled in size, it’s time to transfer it to the prepared pan. Gently pour the dough into the pan, being careful not to deflate it. You’ll notice that it’s airy and soft—this is what creates the fluffy texture of Focaccia.

1. Using your hands, stretch and press the dough evenly across the pan. If the dough resists, let it rest for 5–10 minutes and then try again. The gluten will relax, making it easier to shape.
2. To create the signature dimples, lightly press your fingertips into the dough. These dimples help trap olive oil and toppings, creating pockets of flavor.

Pro Tip: Coat your fingers with olive oil before dimpling to prevent the dough from sticking to your hands.

Step 5: Adding Toppings

This is where Focaccia truly shines. Once the dough is evenly spread and dimpled, drizzle 2–3 tablespoons of high-quality olive oil over the surface. The oil not only adds flavor but also helps create a golden crust.

Classic Topping Ideas:

• Sprinkle fresh rosemary leaves and flaky sea salt for a traditional touch.
• Scatter sliced olives or halved cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and flavor.
• Add thinly sliced garlic or onion for a savory twist.

Feel adventurous? Experiment with ingredients like caramelized onions, shredded cheese, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Your Focaccia is your canvas—be creative!

Step 6: Second Rise

After adding the toppings, it’s time for the second rise. Cover the pan loosely with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rest for another 30–45 minutes. This step allows the dough to puff up slightly and ensures a light, airy texture.

Avoid Over-Proofing: Over-proofed dough can collapse during baking, so keep an eye on it. The dough should look slightly puffy, not overly swollen.

Step 7: Baking the Focaccia

Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) during the second rise. A hot oven is crucial for achieving that signature golden crust.

1. Place the pan in the center of the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are crisp.
2. To check doneness, tap the top of the bread—it should sound hollow. If it doesn’t, bake for a few more minutes.

Pro Tip: Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even browning.

Step 8: Cooling and Serving

Once baked, remove the Focaccia from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely—this prevents the bottom from becoming soggy.

Serve your Focaccia warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect on its own, dipped in olive oil and balsamic vinegar, or as a side dish for soups, salads, and pasta. For a more indulgent experience, slice it horizontally and use it for sandwiches.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even seasoned bakers can encounter a few hiccups. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:

1. Dense Bread: This usually happens when the dough hasn’t risen enough. Ensure your yeast is fresh and the rising environment is warm.
2. Overly Dry Crust: Avoid over-baking or using too little olive oil.
3. Sticky Dough: While Focaccia dough is naturally sticky, adding a little extra flour during mixing can help without affecting the texture.
4. Uneven Baking: Rotate your pan halfway through baking and ensure your oven temperature is accurate.

Storage Tips for Focaccia Bread

Focaccia is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:

• At Room Temperature: Wrap in aluminum foil or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• In the Refrigerator: Place in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to restore its crispiness.
• Freezing: Slice the Focaccia, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

FAQs about Focaccia Bread Recipe

1. What is focaccia bread?

Focaccia bread is a classic Italian flatbread known for its light, airy texture and rich flavor. It’s often seasoned with olive oil, herbs, and sea salt, making it a versatile choice for sandwiches, snacks, or as a side dish.

2. What ingredients are needed to make focaccia bread?

The main ingredients for focaccia bread are flour, water, yeast, salt, olive oil, and optional toppings like rosemary, garlic, or olives.

3. How long does it take to make focaccia bread?

The process usually takes about 2-3 hours, including preparation and rising time, depending on the recipe.

4. Can I customize the toppings?

Yes! Focaccia bread is highly customizable. Popular toppings include caramelized onions, sun-dried tomatoes, cheese, and various herbs.

5. What’s the secret to soft and fluffy focaccia?

The key is a well-hydrated dough and allowing it enough time to rise. Generously coating the dough with olive oil also helps achieve the signature texture and flavor.

6. How should I store focaccia bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat it in the oven to restore its crispness.

7. Can I freeze focaccia bread?

Yes, focaccia bread freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw and warm it in the oven before serving.

Conclusion

Making Focaccia bread at home is a rewarding experience that brings a taste of Italy to your kitchen. From mixing the dough to savoring the golden crust, every step is an opportunity to create something delicious and unique. Whether you keep it simple with olive oil and salt or load it with creative toppings, Focaccia is sure to impress.

Ready to bake your first Focaccia? Roll up your sleeves and give it a try—your taste buds will thank you.