Focaccia Bread: The Ultimate Homemade Italian Flatbread

Have you ever walked into a bakery and been immediately captivated by the irresistible aroma of freshly baked Focaccia Bread? After a hectic day, there’s something deeply comforting about tearing into a warm piece of homemade Focaccia Bread – that perfect combination of crispy exterior and soft, airy interior, glistening with olive oil and fragrant herbs. This classic Italian flatbread has been a staple for centuries, and now you can easily recreate this bakery-quality Focaccia Bread right in your own kitchen, even if you’re a beginner baker.

What makes this Focaccia Bread recipe special is how it balances simplicity with incredible flavor. The dough develops those signature air pockets that capture pools of olive oil and herbs, creating little bursts of flavor with each bite. Whether you’re hosting an impromptu gathering or simply want to elevate your family dinner, learning how to make Focaccia Bread from scratch will quickly become one of your most treasured kitchen skills.

Why You’ll Love This Focaccia Bread

• ✅ Perfect for beginners – this easy Focaccia Bread with herbs and olive oil recipe is virtually foolproof
• ✅ Versatile base for creating endless best toppings for homemade Focaccia Bread combinations
• ✅ Impressive crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to prepare
• ✅ Discover tips for achieving a crispy Focaccia Bread crust while maintaining a soft interior
• ✅ Make-ahead friendly – excellent for storing and reheating leftover Focaccia Bread

Ingredients for Focaccia Bread

To make this delicious Focaccia Bread, you’ll need these simple ingredients:

• 2¾ cups all-purpose flour (for a gluten-free Focaccia Bread, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum)
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast (or instant yeast)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon white sugar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• 1 pinch ground black pepper
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (plus extra for the bowl)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (high-quality extra virgin for best flavor)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Toppings for Focaccia Bread

For those looking to explore Focaccia Bread with roasted vegetables ideas, consider adding:

• Cherry tomatoes
• Thinly sliced red onions
• Roasted bell peppers
• Fresh rosemary sprigs
• Flaky sea salt

How to Make Focaccia Bread – Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, sugar, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, basil, and black pepper.
2. Make a well in the center and pour in the warm water and vegetable oil.
3. Mix with a wooden spoon until the dough begins to come together, then turn onto a lightly floured surface.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using sourdough starter for Focaccia Bread, reduce the yeast by half and add ½ cup of active starter.
5. Shape into a ball and place in an oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.

Step 2: First Rise

1. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
2. For one of the most important tips for achieving a crispy Focaccia Bread crust, don’t rush this rise – it develops flavor and texture.

Step 3: Shape and Second Rise

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Lightly oil a 9×13-inch baking pan or sheet.
3. Gently punch down the dough to release air bubbles and transfer it to the prepared pan.
4. Using your fingertips, press the dough to fill the pan, creating those characteristic dimples all over the surface.
5. Drizzle with olive oil, making sure it pools in the dimples – this is key for authentic traditional Italian Focaccia Bread variations.
6. Let rise for another 20 minutes until slightly puffy.

Step 4: Add Toppings and Bake

1. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the dough.
2. Add any additional toppings from the best toppings for homemade Focaccia Bread list.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown on top and cooked through.
4. For an extra crispy crust, bake for an additional 3-5 minutes.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Focaccia Bread

• For extra flavor: Infuse your olive oil with garlic, herbs, or lemon zest before drizzling over the dough.
• For a lighter texture: Add an extra 2-3 tablespoons of water to the dough for a more open, airy crumb.
• For make-ahead convenience: Prepare the dough and complete the first rise, then refrigerate overnight for enhanced flavor development.
• Flour matters: Using bread flour instead of all-purpose will give you a chewier texture.
• Don’t skimp on oil: Those generous pools of olive oil create the signature Focaccia Bread flavor and texture.
• When exploring gluten-free Focaccia Bread baking tips, remember to increase the hydration slightly as gluten-free flours tend to absorb more moisture.

Best Ways to Serve Focaccia Bread

When considering Focaccia Bread serving suggestions for gatherings, there are countless delicious options:

• Slice into squares and serve alongside soup or pasta.
• Use as a base for gourmet sandwiches – the herbed bread adds incredible flavor.
• Create a beautiful appetizer platter with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and fresh cheeses for dipping.
• For a hearty breakfast, top warm Focaccia Bread with a fried egg and fresh herbs.
• Serve alongside an antipasto platter with cured meats, olives, and marinated vegetables.

For an elevated dining experience, pair your Focaccia Bread with a glass of Italian Pinot Grigio or a light-bodied red wine.

Nutritional Information for Focaccia Bread

Per serving (1/12 of recipe):

• Calories: 175 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 240mg

Storage & Leftovers

Wondering about storing and reheating leftover Focaccia Bread? Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container or wrapped in foil for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
• Freezer: Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.

To reheat, sprinkle with a few drops of water and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy on the outside. Avoid the microwave as it can make the Focaccia Bread tough.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Focaccia Bread made of?

Focaccia Bread is made from simple ingredients including flour, yeast, salt, water, and olive oil. What makes it special is the liberal use of olive oil and various toppings like herbs, cheese, and vegetables that create its distinctive flavor and texture.

How do you serve Focaccia Bread?

Focaccia Bread is versatile and can be served as an appetizer with olive oil for dipping, as a side with soups and salads, used for sandwiches, or enjoyed as a snack on its own. It’s perfect for entertaining and casual dining alike.

What are common toppings for Focaccia Bread?

Traditional toppings for Focaccia Bread include rosemary, sea salt, cherry tomatoes, olives, onions, and cheese. You can get creative with seasonal vegetables, garlic, different herbs, or even sweet variations with fruits and honey.

How long does Focaccia Bread last?

When properly stored in an airtight container, Focaccia Bread lasts 2-3 days at room temperature or up to 5 days in the refrigerator. It also freezes well for up to 3 months, making it perfect for meal prep.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to make Focaccia Bread from scratch, you’ll never need to buy the store-bought version again! This versatile Italian flatbread is as enjoyable to make as it is to eat, with endless possibilities for customization to suit your taste preferences and occasion.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a complete novice, this Focaccia Bread recipe offers a foolproof way to create bakery-quality results in your own kitchen. The combination of crispy exterior, soft interior, and aromatic herbs creates an irresistible bread that will quickly become a family favorite.

Have you tried making Focaccia Bread at home? What are your favorite toppings? We’d love to hear about your baking experiences in the comments below!

Happy baking!

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