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Easy Homemade Focaccia Bread

A delightful Italian bread with a crispy crust and a soft, pillowy interior, infused with herbs and olive oil, perfect for any meal or gathering.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Bread, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 teaspoons instant yeast
Wet Ingredients
  • 1/4 cup olive oil Plus more for drizzling
  • 1 3/4 cups warm water
Toppings
  • to taste Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme)
  • to taste Coarse sea salt for topping

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast. Stir until well blended.
  2. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. Pour in the olive oil and warm water. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until a sticky dough forms.
  3. Lightly flour a clean surface and transfer your dough onto it. Knead gently for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic, adding flour as necessary to prevent sticking.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Baking
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down and transfer it to a baking pan. Stretch it out into a rectangular shape.
  2. Use your fingers to dimple the surface of the dough. Drizzle olive oil generously over the top and sprinkle with fresh herbs and coarse sea salt.
  3. Let the dough rest for another 20-30 minutes, allowing it to rise slightly.
  4. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Allow the focaccia to cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy it warm!

Notes

For variations, consider adding garlic or using different herbs like basil or oregano. To store, keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to a month. Reheat individual slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.