The Best Homemade Focaccia Bread Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade focaccia bread recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for bakers of any level. You’ll enjoy the soft, fluffy texture and the rich, herby flavor that comes from fresh rosemary and olive oil. It’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings, like garlic, tomatoes, or olives. The dough is forgiving and doesn’t require precise kneading, making it stress-free. Plus, your kitchen will smell amazing as it bakes, like a cozy Italian trattoria.
Recipe
Focaccia is a classic Italian flatbread known for its soft, airy texture and flavorful olive oil crust. This homemade recipe is straightforward and yields a deliciously golden and aromatic bread that’s perfect for serving as an appetizer, side, or even a sandwich base.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast
- 1 ½ teaspoons (9g) salt
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
- 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly oil a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking sheet.
- Press the dough into the prepared baking sheet, stretching it to fit. Use your fingertips to create dimples across the surface.
- Drizzle generously with olive oil and sprinkle with flaky sea salt and rosemary (if using).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes:
- For extra flavor, add garlic cloves, olives, or cherry tomatoes to the dough before baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet (9×13 inch)
- Stand mixer (optional)
Time:
Prep time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1.5 hours
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: Italian
Serving: 8-10 slices
Nutrition
Focaccia bread is a flavorful and versatile bread that can be enjoyed as a side dish or snack. Here is the nutritional breakdown for a typical homemade focaccia recipe.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Total Fat | 8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 1 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
What To Serve With It
Now that you’ve made your focaccia, let’s talk about what to serve with it—I love classic Italian pairings like olive oil and balsamic vinegar, but don’t be afraid to get creative with dips or even turning it into a sandwich. You can keep it simple with fresh tomatoes and mozzarella, or try something unexpected like using it as a base for bruschetta. Trust me, the options are endless, and I’ve got plenty of ideas to share.
Classic Italian Pairings
When I’m planning a meal around homemade focaccia, I love thinking about the flavors that’ll make it shine. Classic Italian pairings are my go-to, like a simple caprese salad with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil—those traditional herbs really pop. A drizzle of olive oil ties it all together. For heartier options, I lean into regional variations, like pairing it with a rich bowl of minestrone or a plate of cured meats and cheeses. It’s amazing how focaccia soaks up the flavors, whether dipped in balsamic or served alongside a warm bowl of pasta. Perfect every time!
Creative Serving Ideas
Beyond the classic pairings, there’s so much fun to be had with creative ways to serve focaccia. I love turning it into a showstopper by playing with flavor combinations like rosemary and honey, or sun-dried tomatoes with goat cheese. For presentation styles, try cutting it into squares and stacking them like a sandwich tower, or tear it into rustic chunks for a family-style spread. One of my favorites? Using it as a base for mini pizzas—just add toppings and broil. The possibilities are endless, and it’s a surefire way to impress guests or spice up weeknight dinners.
