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Homemade focaccia bread topped with herbs and olive oil

Focaccia Bread

This homemade focaccia bread is warm, soft, and full of flavor, making it a perfect snack, side, or party bread.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Party Food, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 3 1/2 cups all purpose flour
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 105 to 115 F) Warm, not hot, to activate yeast.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for the pan and top
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
  • Fresh rosemary or other herbs, optional
  • Cherry tomatoes or olives, optional

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 to 10 minutes, until it bubbles a little.
  2. In a large bowl, stir flour and salt. Add the yeast mix and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Mix until a soft dough forms.
  3. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
  4. Lightly oil a bowl, put the dough in, and cover with a towel. Let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, until doubled.
  5. Oil a baking pan or sheet well. Press the dough into the pan to make an even layer about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. Cover and let rise for 20 to 30 minutes.
Baking
  1. Preheat the oven to 425 F (220 C). Use your fingers to make dimples across the dough surface.
  2. Drizzle olive oil over the top. Add rosemary, sea salt, tomatoes, or olives as you like.
  3. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until golden brown on top. Let cool a few minutes, slice, and serve warm.

Notes

Use warm water to wake the yeast without killing it. Make sure to let the dough rise for a light and airy texture. A well-oiled pan gives a crisp bottom and easy release. Bake until the top is golden for the best crust.