Homemade Focaccia Bread
A warm, inviting homemade focaccia bread that's easy to make and perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- Sea salt (for sprinkling)
- Fresh rosemary or other herbs (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Add the olive oil and salt to the mixture.
- Gradually add the flour, stirring with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let rise in a warm area for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Once risen, punch down the dough and transfer it to a greased baking sheet, gently stretching it to fit.
- Use your fingers to poke deep dimples into the dough, then drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle sea salt on top.
- Optionally, add fresh rosemary or other herbs for added flavor.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, try adding minced garlic to the olive oil before drizzling it on the dough. Experiment with different toppings like olives, cherry tomatoes, or cheese. Use whole wheat flour for a healthier option, or mix it with all-purpose flour. Make a batch and freeze any leftovers for quick meals later. If you’re short on time, let the dough rise in the fridge overnight for more flavor.