Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe – Soft, Airy, and Delicious

Introduction

There’s something magical about baking your own bread, and this Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers. With its crispy golden crust, airy interior, and rich olive oil flavor, this focaccia bread recipe delivers bakery-quality results without the hassle of a long fermentation process.

Unlike traditional large-batch breads, this small batch focaccia is designed for quick, same-day baking, making it an excellent choice for last-minute cravings or a side dish to a homemade meal. Whether you’re looking for a bread recipe easy enough for a weekday dinner or a base for a delicious sandwich, this focaccia recipe has you covered.

In this guide, you’ll learn step-by-step how to make soft, flavorful focaccia with minimal effort. We’ll also share common mistakes to avoid, customization ideas, and the best ways to serve it.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Same-Day Baking: No overnight rise required—this recipe is ready in just a few hours.
• Perfect Texture: Light, fluffy interior with a crisp, golden crust.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples like flour, yeast, olive oil, and salt.
• Versatile: Enjoy it plain, topped with herbs, or customized with your favorite flavors.
• Small Batch: Ideal for couples, small families, or those who don’t want too much leftover bread.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this easy focaccia bread, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ¾ teaspoon sugar
• ¾ teaspoon instant yeast
• ¾ cup (180ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For Topping:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon flaky sea salt
• ½ teaspoon dried rosemary or thyme (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Kitchen Equipment Required

To make the best small batch focaccia, you’ll need:

• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• 8-inch or 9-inch baking dish (square or round)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel
• Oven

How to Make Easy Focaccia Bread

Step 1: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast. Add the warm water and olive oil, then stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a sticky dough forms.

Step 2: Knead and Rest

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour, but avoid adding too much.

Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 3: Shape and Second Rise

After the first rise, punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil and transfer the dough to the dish. Use your fingers to gently stretch and press the dough evenly into the pan.

Cover the pan and let the dough rise for another 30-40 minutes, allowing it to puff up slightly.

Step 4: Add Toppings

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once the dough has risen, drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the surface. Use your fingertips to create dimples in the dough—this helps trap olive oil and adds texture.

Sprinkle flaky sea salt and any optional toppings like dried rosemary or garlic powder.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the focaccia in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Brush with additional olive oil for extra flavor.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Slice and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy on its own, as a side dish, or as the base for a delicious sandwich!

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Second Rise: This step is essential for an airy texture. Don’t rush it!
• Not Dimpling the Dough: The dimples help create the signature focaccia texture and hold the olive oil for extra flavor.
• Over-Baking: Keep an eye on the bread in the last few minutes to prevent it from becoming too hard.
• Using Cold Water: Yeast activates best with warm water (around 110°F/43°C). Cold water will slow the rise, while hot water can kill the yeast.

Recipe Variations & Customizations

• Cheesy Focaccia: Sprinkle shredded parmesan or mozzarella before baking.
• Olive & Herb Focaccia: Add sliced olives and fresh rosemary for Mediterranean flavors.
• Garlic Butter Focaccia: Brush with melted garlic butter after baking for extra richness.
• Whole Wheat Version: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier bread.

How to Serve & Presentation Tips

For an impressive presentation, drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the baked focaccia and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve on a wooden cutting board with a small dish of balsamic vinegar and olive oil for dipping.

What to Serve with Focaccia Bread

• Soups & Stews: Perfect for dipping into tomato soup or hearty minestrone.
• Salads: Pair with a fresh Caprese salad or Caesar salad.
• Sandwiches: Slice in half and use it as sandwich bread for a delicious panini.
• Dipping Oils: Serve with a side of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, or garlic-infused butter.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing: Wrap leftover focaccia in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It stays fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing: Wrap the focaccia in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.

Reheating: Warm leftover focaccia in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore its crispiness.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, but dissolve it in warm water with the sugar first and let it sit for 5 minutes before adding to the flour.

Why is my focaccia dense?

It may not have risen long enough. Ensure you let the dough double in size before baking.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Just use plant-based olive oil and avoid adding cheese toppings.

Can I make this in a cast-iron skillet?

Absolutely! A well-oiled cast-iron pan creates a crispier crust.

Conclusion

This Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe is perfect for anyone craving homemade bread without the long wait. With its crisp crust, airy interior, and rich olive oil flavor, this small batch focaccia is ideal for everyday meals or special occasions.

Try this focaccia recipe today and let us know how it turns out! If you loved it, share this recipe and subscribe for more bread recipes easy to make at home. Happy baking!

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