Description
This easy homemade focaccia bread is a golden, crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside delight. With a generous drizzle of olive oil, fresh rosemary, and a sprinkle of sea salt, this classic Italian bread is perfect for serving alongside your favorite dishes or enjoying on its own.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups (500g) bread flour or all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast or instant yeast
- 2 teaspoons (10g) salt
- 1 ¾ cups (415ml) warm water
- ¼ cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves
- Coarse sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions
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Mixing and Kneading the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of flour, 2 teaspoons of salt, and 2 ¼ teaspoons of yeast.
- Add 1 ¾ cups of warm water and ¼ cup of olive oil.
- Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
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First Rise:
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
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Shaping and Dimpling the Focaccia:
- Grease a baking sheet with olive oil.
- Gently stretch the dough to fit the pan.
- Use your fingertips to create those signature dimples all over the surface.
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Second Rise:
- Cover the dough and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
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Topping and Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Drizzle the focaccia generously with olive oil, sprinkle with sea salt, and top with rosemary.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
- Focaccia bread can be served warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with soups, stews, or as a side to your favorite Italian dishes.
- For added flavor, you can top the focaccia with other ingredients such as olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or garlic before baking.
- Prep Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including rise time)
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian