Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread

When it comes to baking bread at home, there’s something magical about whipping up a batch of focaccia. This easy homemade focaccia bread is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s also a feast for the eyes! Fluffy, airy, and topped with a drizzle of olive oil, it’s the perfect accompaniment to any meal or a delicious snack all on its own. Did you know that focaccia originated in ancient Rome? They were so fond of this bread that they even referred to it as “panis focacius,” meaning “hearth bread.” Whether served alongside soups, salads, or even as the star of a charcuterie board, focaccia is always a crowd-pleaser.

What makes this bread special is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create this delightful dish in less than an hour! Plus, the whole family can get involved in the fun of shaping and topping the dough. If you love homemade treats but have also tried making classic homemade bread before, you’ll find this focaccia an easy and delightful alternative. So lace-up your apron and get ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked focaccia!

What is Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread?

So, what exactly is focaccia? You might be wondering if it’s just another Italian flatbread or if it has some secret life of its own. Well, let me tell you! Focaccia is essentially like pizza’s laid-back cousin, with a soft, fluffy interior and a crispy crust, ready to be dressed up with delicious toppings or savored just as it is. It’s the type of bread that makes everyone swoon, and just like the classic saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” a warm piece of focaccia will definitely win over your guests!

Some might chuckle at its name, which sounds almost like a charming Italian nickname. But in essence, focaccia is called so because of its unique baking style. So why not give it a try? You’ll be amazed at how easily you can create this delightful bread in your own kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread

There are a few standout reasons why this easy homemade focaccia bread deserves a spot in your recipe rotation! Firstly, the main highlight is its incredible texture—a fluffy and airy loaf that can soak up any sauce or dip, making every bite delectable. Secondly, making focaccia at home is a cost-saving alternative to store-bought bread. Just think about how little you’ll spend compared to those artisanal loaves!

As for the toppings, the possibilities are endless! From rosemary and sea salt to garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, each bite becomes an explosion of flavor. If you’re a fan of homemade bread, just imagine how much more delicious your meals will be when served with warm focaccia. So why not grab your apron, and bring this taste of Italy to your kitchen?

How to Make Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread

Quick Overview

Making focaccia at home is simpler than you might think! You can whip it up in just 30 minutes (plus some time for rising), and the result is a warm, fragrant bread that’s bound to impress. Whether slathered with butter or served with your favorite soup, it’s a satisfying kitchen project that’s just waiting to be enjoyed!

Key Ingredients for Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread

To make your easy homemade focaccia, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup warm water (110°F or 45°C)
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
• 2 tsp kosher salt
• 2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for topping)
• Sea salt and herbs for garnish (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough: Start by combining the warm water and instant yeast in a large bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Add Ingredients: Stir in the flour, kosher salt, and olive oil until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 30 minutes, or until it doubles in size.
5. Shape the Focaccia: Once risen, transfer the dough to a generously greased baking sheet. Use your fingers to gently stretch and spread it into a rectangle or circle.
6. Add Toppings: Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt and herbs of your choice.
7. Second Rise: Let the focaccia rest for another 15-20 minutes while preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
8. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
9. Cool and Serve: Allow it to cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

What to Serve Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread With

This easy homemade focaccia is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes! Serve it alongside a hearty bowl of minestrone soup for a comforting meal or with a refreshing green salad. It also works as a fantastic base for sandwiches or served with dips like hummus or marinara sauce. Don’t forget to pair it with a glass of your favorite Italian red wine for a complete culinary experience!

Top Tips for Perfecting Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread

1. Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality olive oil to enhance the flavor.
2. Let it Rise: Make sure to give the dough enough time to rise; this is crucial for that fluffy texture.
3. Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Add toppings like olives, roasted garlic, or even caramelized onions to elevate your focaccia.
4. Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the bread and take it out as soon as it turns golden brown to ensure it remains moist.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store your focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer preservation, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer, where it can last for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore its lovely texture.

Now that you’ve got the scoop on making easy homemade focaccia, why not gather the ingredients and give it a whirl? You’re sure to impress your family and friends, and who knows—it might just become a beloved staple in your home! Happy baking!

Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread

This easy homemade focaccia bread is fluffy, airy, and perfect for any meal or as a delightful snack. It’s simple to make and a treat to the taste buds!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Bread, Snack

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 150

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Dough

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup warm water (110°F or 45°C)
• 1 packet instant yeast (2 ¼ tsp)
• 2 tsp kosher salt
• 2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for topping) Use high-quality olive oil for better flavor.

For Topping

• Sea salt and herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano) For garnish; use your favorite herbs.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Combine the warm water and instant yeast in a large bowl and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Stir in the flour, kosher salt, and olive oil until a sticky dough forms.
3. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 30 minutes, or until it doubles in size.

Baking

1. Transfer the risen dough to a generously greased baking sheet. Use your fingers to gently stretch and spread it into a rectangle or circle.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt and herbs of your choice.
3. Let the focaccia rest for another 15-20 minutes while preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
5. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Notes

For best results, let the dough rise adequately and experiment with different toppings. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.