A simple and delicious homemade focaccia bread recipe that yields a soft, fluffy interior with a golden, crispy crust. Perfect as a side dish, sandwich bread, or appetizer.
Author:Mollyyeh
Prep Time:2 hours 20 minutes
Cook Time:25 minutes
Total Time:2 hours 45 minutes
Yield:1 large focaccia (about 12 servings) 1x
Category:Bread
Method:Baking
Cuisine:Italian
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
UnitsScale
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
1 3/4cups warm water (about 110°F)
1 tsp honey
5cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp kosher salt
1/2cup extra virgin olive oil, divided
1 tbsp coarse sea salt (for topping)
1 tbsp fresh rosemary (optional, for topping)
Instructions
In a large bowl, mix warm water, honey, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Add flour and kosher salt to the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Transfer the dough to a bowl greased with 1 tbsp olive oil, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, until doubled in size.
Grease a baking sheet or pan with 2 tbsp olive oil and spread the dough into the pan using your fingers.
Let the dough rest and rise again for 20-30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Drizzle the top of the dough with the remaining olive oil, and dimple it with your fingers. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt and rosemary if using.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
Use fresh rosemary for the best flavor, or substitute with dried if needed.
You can add toppings like olives, cherry tomatoes, or garlic for extra flavor.
Focaccia is best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.