Are you searching for a delicious, easy-to-make bread that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than Easy Focaccia Bread! This wonderfully fluffy, flavorful bread is like a blank canvas—perfect for your favorite toppings.
Fun fact: focaccia dates all the way back to ancient Roman times! Not only does this delightful bread fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma, but it can also be prepared quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekend gatherings. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
If you’re a fan of unique homemade breads, don’t miss our classic No-Knead Bread, another simple yet rewarding recipe that’s sure to earn you compliments. Now, let’s turn your kitchen into a mini bakery and dive into this delicious focaccia!
What Is Easy Focaccia Bread?
You might be wondering, “What’s the big deal about focaccia? Isn’t it just another bread?” Absolutely not!
Focaccia is a beloved Italian flatbread known for its soft, airy texture and savory flavor. It’s often topped with fragrant herbs, olive oil, and even sliced vegetables. This makes it not just bread—but a flavorful, customizable creation that can accompany nearly any meal.
If the saying “the way to a person’s heart is through their stomach” is true, then focaccia is proof! Give this recipe a try—you’ll be hooked after the first bite.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Focaccia Bread
⭐ 1. Incredible Texture
Soft, airy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, focaccia offers a rustic feel with a pillowy center and crisp edges.
⭐ 2. Budget-Friendly
Why buy an expensive loaf when you can make bakery-quality focaccia at home with just a few basic ingredients?
⭐ 3. Fun to Customize
Fresh herbs, sliced vegetables, olives, cheese—the topping combinations are endless! Unlike typical sandwich bread, focaccia brings flavor, personality, and versatility to your table.
How to Make Easy Focaccia Bread
Quick Overview
Surprisingly simple and requiring minimal ingredients, this bread comes together in just about 2 hours, including rising time. Perfect for sharing—or enjoying all to yourself!
Key Ingredients
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4 cups all-purpose flour
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2 cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
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1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
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2 teaspoons salt
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¼ cup olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
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Fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme recommended)
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Coarse sea salt for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, mix warm water with the yeast. Let it sit 5–10 minutes until foamy. -
Mix the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Create a well and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a sticky dough forms. -
Knead the Dough:
Transfer to a floured surface and knead gently for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic. -
First Rise:
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled. -
Prepare the Pan:
Grease a baking sheet or rectangular pan generously with olive oil. -
Shape the Bread:
Punch down the risen dough and spread it onto the prepared pan, gently stretching it to fit. -
Second Rise:
Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes. -
Preheat the Oven:
Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C). -
Add Toppings:
Dimple the dough with your fingertips, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle herbs and coarse salt on top. -
Bake:
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp around the edges. -
Cool and Serve:
Let it cool slightly, slice, and enjoy!
Top Tips for Perfect Focaccia
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Check Your Yeast: Fresh yeast is key for a good rise—always check the expiration date.
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Customize Freely: Add cherry tomatoes, olives, caramelized onions, or cheese.
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Watch the Color: Every oven is different; remove the bread when it turns a beautiful golden brown.
Easy Focaccia Bread
Ingredients
Method
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water with the active dry yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Grease a baking sheet or a rectangular pan with olive oil.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto the prepared pan. Gently stretch and shape the dough to fit the pan.
- Cover the dough again and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Once the dough has risen again, gently dimple the surface with your fingers, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle fresh herbs and coarse sea salt on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Let the focaccia cool slightly before slicing and serving.
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