Homemade Focaccia Bread Recipe

If you’re searching for bread that’s golden and crisp on the outside, pillowy on the inside, and begging to be pulled apart while it’s still warm, homemade focaccia bread will absolutely steal your heart. This classic Italian favorite is infused with fragrant rosemary and extra-virgin olive oil, resulting in a blissfully savory loaf that’s both satisfyingly simple and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re baking for a cozy family dinner or need a reliable recipe for your next gathering, homemade focaccia bread is delicious, versatile, and (dare I say) downright irresistible every time.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of homemade focaccia bread is how a few pantry staples can transform into something so magical. Each ingredient shines, offering subtle nuances in taste, texture, or even that beautifully golden sheen.

• All-purpose flour: The essential backbone that gives focaccia its structure and classic chewy bite.
• Active dry yeast: Brings the dough to life, creating those light, airy bubbles inside the bread.
• Salt: Seasoning that awakens all the flavors and balances the richness of oil and herbs.
• Warm water (110°F): The perfect temperature ensures the yeast activates for a gorgeous rise.
• Olive oil (plus more for drizzling): This is the secret to the focaccia’s tender crumb and golden crust.
• Sugar: Just a touch feeds the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness that enhances the bread.
• Fresh rosemary, chopped: Delivers intense aroma and a signature Italian flavor.
• Flaky sea salt for topping: Adds crunch and bursts of savory goodness on every bite.

How to Make Homemade Focaccia Bread

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by pouring your warm water into a large bowl, then stir in the sugar and sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top. Give it a gentle swoosh, then let the mix sit undisturbed for about 5 to 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you see a blanket of foamy bubbles—that’s the magical signal your yeast is awake and ready to help lift your bread.

Step 2: Mix and Knead the Dough

Add the all-purpose flour, salt, and 1/4 cup of olive oil to the foamy yeast mixture. Grab a sturdy spoon or your hands and mix it all together until a shaggy, sticky dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, then knead for 5 to 7 minutes. You’re looking for a dough that’s smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not too sticky. Kneading develops the gluten and gives homemade focaccia bread its signature chew.

Step 3: First Rise

Drizzle a bit of olive oil into a clean bowl, pop your dough in, and turn it so it’s coated softly all over. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rest in a warm, cozy spot for about an hour. You’ll come back to dough that’s doubled in size, soft, and seriously fluffy.

Step 4: Shape and Second Rise

Punch down the dough with your fist—it’s incredibly satisfying! Then transfer it to a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Press and stretch the dough gently to ensure it fills the corners and spreads evenly. Cover it again and let it rise for another 20 to 30 minutes while you preheat your oven to a toasty 425°F.

Step 5: Dimple, Top, and Bake

This is the fun part! Use your fingertips to poke deep dimples all over the dough’s surface (no need to be gentle here). Generously drizzle more olive oil over the top, then sprinkle on your chopped rosemary and a lively pinch of flaky sea salt. Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Once the focaccia is deeply golden and the kitchen smells heavenly, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Homemade Focaccia Bread

Garnishes

You can keep it classic with fresh rosemary and a flaky sea salt sprinkle, but there’s no need to stop there! Try torn basil, a dusting of parmesan, or a swirl of caramelized onions for extra flair. A drizzle of herby olive oil right before serving makes an unbeatable final touch.

Side Dishes

Homemade focaccia bread is made for dipping into luscious soups or mopping up every last drop of a saucy pasta. It pairs beautifully with antipasto plates, crisp salads brimming with tomatoes, or even as a base for open-faced sandwiches piled high with roasted vegetables or mozzarella and prosciutto.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice your focaccia into thick squares, long strips, or playful wedges—whatever the occasion calls for. Turn leftovers into croutons for an epic salad, or serve mini sandwiches at your next brunch. For parties, lay out a focaccia platter with dips, cheeses, and olives for a crowd-pleasing spread everyone will talk about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover homemade focaccia bread tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. It will stay delicious for up to two days at room temperature, maintaining its soft texture and herby aroma.

Freezing

To save focaccia for a rainy day, let it cool completely, then wrap slices or the whole loaf snugly in plastic wrap followed by foil. Stored this way, homemade focaccia bread keeps perfectly in the freezer for up to three months. Just label it so you know how much Italian magic you have on hand!

Reheating

To revive your focaccia’s warm, fresh-from-the-oven flavor, pop slices into a 350°F oven for about 8 minutes (or until heated through and lightly crisped). If reheating straight from the freezer, give it an extra minute or two. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the bread chewy rather than delightfully soft.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Absolutely! Instant yeast will work just as nicely. Skip the proofing step and add it straight to the flour, then proceed as usual. Your homemade focaccia bread will still rise beautifully.

Can I make homemade focaccia bread gluten-free?

You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that’s formulated for yeast breads. The texture will change slightly, but the crumb will remain soft and airy. Pay attention to moisture; gluten-free doughs may need a bit more water.

How do I know when focaccia is done baking?

Look for a deep golden color on the top and edges, and listen for a hollow sound when you tap the bottom. The aroma of freshly baked bread and herbs is also a sure sign you’re ready to pull it from the oven!

Can I add other toppings before baking?

Definitely! Feel free to scatter sliced olives, sun-dried tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, or even halved cherry tomatoes on top with the herbs. Just don’t overload it—a light hand ensures the bread bakes up evenly.

What’s the best way to serve homemade focaccia bread for a party?

Cut it into finger-friendly strips or small squares, and serve alongside a trio of dips like olive tapenade, pesto, and a tangy balsamic vinegar with oil. It’s guaranteed to disappear in minutes!

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite as comforting and impressive as bringing a tray of homemade focaccia bread to the table and watching it disappear. Whether you stick to the classic rosemary sea salt version or get adventurous with new toppings, this recipe is the kind you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try—you just might find it becomes your new go-to bread for every occasion!

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