Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Focaccia is a soft, airy Italian flatbread known for its golden crust, pillowy interior, and rich olive oil flavor. This easy focaccia bread recipe requires minimal kneading and no special equipment, making it perfect for beginner bakers. With a simple dough and your choice of toppings, it’s ideal for sandwiches, side dishes, or snacking straight from the oven.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flouractive dry yeastwarm watersugarolive oilsaltflaky sea salt (for topping)optional toppings: rosemary, cherry tomatoes, garlic, olives

directions

In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture and mix until a sticky dough forms.

Drizzle in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and knead the dough in the bowl or on a floured surface for about 5–7 minutes until smooth.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.

Grease a baking sheet or pan with olive oil. Transfer the risen dough to the pan and gently press it out to fit the shape.

Cover again and let rise for 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

Using your fingers, dimple the surface of the dough. Drizzle generously with olive oil and sprinkle with flaky salt and any optional toppings.

Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on top.

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 1 large focaccia bread (about 12 slices).
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rising time: 1.5–2 hours
Baking time: 20–25 minutes
Total time: 2–2.5 hours

Variations

Add caramelized onions or roasted garlic for extra depth of flavor.
Use sun-dried tomatoes and feta for a Mediterranean twist.
Top with shredded cheese before baking for a cheesy crust.
Incorporate herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil directly into the dough.

storage/reheating

Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
To reheat, warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–10 minutes to restore crispiness.
Focaccia can also be frozen for up to 1 month—wrap tightly in plastic and foil.

FAQs

Can I make focaccia dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after the first rise for up to 24 hours.

What flour works best for focaccia?
All-purpose flour works great, but bread flour can give a slightly chewier texture.

Why is my focaccia dense?
It may be due to under-proofing or using old yeast. Make sure the dough doubles in size.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend designed for yeast breads.

How do I get those classic dimples?
Use well-oiled fingers to press into the dough right before baking.

What oil should I use?
Extra virgin olive oil is best for authentic flavor.

Can I use instant yeast?
Yes, but reduce the rise times slightly and mix it directly with the flour.

Why is my focaccia sticking to the pan?
Make sure to coat the pan generously with olive oil before placing the dough.

Do I need a stand mixer?
No, this dough can be mixed and kneaded by hand.

Is focaccia served warm or cold?
Focaccia is best served warm, but it’s also delicious at room temperature.

Conclusion

Easy Focaccia Bread is a foolproof recipe that brings the comforting aroma and taste of homemade bread to your kitchen. With its golden crust, soft crumb, and endless topping options, this versatile flatbread is sure to become a staple in your baking routine. Whether you’re making it for a meal or a snack, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Print