There's absolutely nothing like the aroma of fresh Focaccia Bread baking in your oven on a Sunday afternoon. The first time I made this recipe, my neighbor knocked on the door asking what smelled so incredible! This pillowy, olive oil-kissed bread with its signature dimpled top and herb-covered surface creates pure magic in any kitchen.
My grandmother used to say that the best bread recipes homemade are the ones that bring families together around the table, and this focaccia bread does exactly that. It's surprisingly simple to make, yet looks and tastes like it came straight from an Italian bakery.
Why You'll Love This Focaccia Bread
This Focaccia Bread recipe delivers bakery-quality results without any fancy equipment or complicated techniques. The secret is in the overnight rise, which develops incredible flavor while you sleep, making it perfect for busy home bakers. My sister tried making this easy focaccia bread recipe last month, and now she's convinced she's found her calling as a bread maker! It's one of those artisan bread recipes that looks impressive but is surprisingly forgiving for beginners.
Plus, you can customize it with endless toppings like focaccia bread garlic, herbs, or even turn it into focaccia buns for sandwiches. The olive oil creates that gorgeous golden crust while keeping the inside incredibly soft and airy.
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What You'll Need
These simple pantry ingredients transform into something absolutely magical with just a little time and patience. Most of these staples are probably sitting in your kitchen right now.
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 2 cups lukewarm water
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Flaky sea salt for topping
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced (optional)
- Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
Optional Extras
Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano, caramelized onions for savory focaccia bread variations, or even olives and sun-dried tomatoes. My daughter loves when I make parmesan focaccia bread with extra cheese on top!
This easy focaccia bread recipe is super easy - full steps are in the recipe card.
How to Make Focaccia Bread
Mix the Perfect Dough
Whisk flour, yeast, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. Add lukewarm water and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Stir until shaggy dough forms.
Master the No-Knead Method
Cover bowl with plastic wrap and let rise at room temperature for 12-18 hours until doubled and bubbly. Don't skip this step for best flavor!
Prepare Your Pan Right
Drizzle remaining olive oil in a 9x13 inch pan. Transfer dough to oiled pan using wet hands to prevent sticking.
People Also Ask: Why do you dimple focaccia bread? Dimpling creates those signature pockets that hold olive oil and seasonings, giving focaccia its characteristic texture and preventing large air bubbles from forming.
Create Those Famous Dimples
Gently stretch dough to fit pan, then use fingertips to create deep dimples across entire surface. Let rest 30 minutes.
Add Toppings Like a Pro
Drizzle with more olive oil, sprinkle flaky salt, rosemary, and garlic slices. Press toppings gently into dimples.
Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake at 450°F for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and crispy on top. Cool slightly before cutting into squares.
Aliana's Top Tip
The biggest secret to perfect home made focaccia bread is using enough olive oil and not being afraid of those deep dimples!
When I first started making this, I was too gentle with the dough and ended up with flat, dense bread.
Really press those fingertips down deep to create proper wells for the oil and seasonings.
Also, don't rush the overnight rise - that long fermentation is what gives focaccia its incredible flavor and airy texture.
My mom always said good bread can't be hurried, and she was absolutely right.
The patience pays off when you bite into that perfect golden crust with the pillowy interior!
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
Transform this basic recipe into herb-seasoned focaccia bread by adding dried Italian herbs to the dough. For focaccia bread art, arrange colorful vegetables in beautiful patterns before baking. You can use bread flour instead of all-purpose for a chewier texture, or add whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. Honey works instead of sugar, and any fresh herbs can substitute for rosemary.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Store focaccia bread wrapped in plastic at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze wrapped portions for up to 3 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore that crispy crust. This bread actually tastes amazing the next day, especially when used for sandwiches or dipped in olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
What to Serve With Focaccia Bread
This focaccia bread pairs beautifully with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping, Italian soups, or use it as bread with pasta for a complete meal. My family loves it alongside grilled vegetables, cheese plates, or even as the base for focaccia buns filled with deli meats and fresh mozzarella. It's also incredible toasted for breakfast with a drizzle of honey.
FAQs About Focaccia Bread
Why is my focaccia dense instead of airy?
Usually this happens from using too much flour or not enough olive oil. The dough should be quite wet and sticky.
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! After the first rise, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before shaping and baking.
Can I make this without the overnight rise?
You can use it after 2 hours at room temperature, but the flavor won't be as developed as with the longer fermentation.
What's the best pan to use?
A metal 9x13 inch pan works best for even browning, but ceramic or glass pans work too with slightly longer baking time.
More Recipes You'll Love
If you're craving more artisan bread recipes like this one, try my rustic sourdough boule, garlic herb dinner rolls, or classic Italian ciabatta. Each one brings that same homemade bakery magic to your kitchen and uses simple techniques that build incredible flavor from basic ingredients.
Gave this recipe your own spin? Share it on Pinterest @AlianaRecipes - I can't wait to see your take on it! Looking for more focaccia recipe variations? Check out my bread recipes homemade collection for endless ways to fill your home with the most incredible aromas!
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Pairing
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