Rosemary Focaccia Bread

Introduction

I’ve got to tell you, there’s something so special about making Rosemary Focaccia Bread at home. It’s one of those recipes that instantly fills your kitchen with the most amazing, cozy aroma. For me, it’s become a go-to when I want to add something special to a meal without too much fuss. Plus, it’s so versatile! I’ve served it with everything from a simple salad to hearty soups, and let me tell you, it never disappoints.

One of the reasons I love this bread so much is how easy it is to make. If you’ve never baked bread before, focaccia is a great one to start with. It doesn’t require any fancy techniques, and you don’t have to be an expert at kneading dough. You just mix the ingredients, let it rise, and then spread it out on a baking sheet. The olive oil and rosemary do all the hard work of making it taste incredible. And the best part? The edges get perfectly crispy, while the inside stays soft and fluffy.

I remember the first time I made this for a family gathering. I was nervous that it wouldn’t turn out well, but as soon as everyone took a bite, I knew it was a hit. Now, it’s become one of those recipes that my family asks for all the time. And I love that I can switch it up by adding toppings like cherry tomatoes, olives, or even a sprinkle of sea salt. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your household too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with Rosemary Focaccia Bread:

• Crispy on the Outside, Soft on the Inside: Perfectly golden with a tender crumb.
• Fragrant and Flavorful: The rosemary and olive oil combination is divine.
• Versatile: Enjoy as a side dish, appetizer, or sandwich base.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like sea salt, olives, or caramelized onions.
• Easy to Make: Minimal ingredients and no complicated steps.
• Great for Sharing: Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or potlucks.
• Freezer-Friendly: Bake ahead and freeze for a convenient bread option.
• No Special Equipment Needed: Simple kitchen tools are all you need to bake this delicious bread.
• Perfect for Any Skill Level: Whether you’re a novice or an experienced baker, this recipe is easy to follow.
• Aromatic Experience: The smell of baking rosemary will fill your kitchen with warmth and comfort.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: 2 hours
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Resting Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: 8-10 slices
• Calories per slice: Approximately 180 calories
• Key Nutrients: Fiber: 2g, Fat: 6g, Carbohydrates: 28g, Protein: 4g

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Rosemary Focaccia Bread:

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp instant yeast
• 1 3/4 cups warm water
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

For Topping:

• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling

Ingredient Highlights

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds richness and keeps the focaccia soft and flavorful.
• Fresh Rosemary: Provides an earthy, aromatic flavor that complements the bread beautifully.
• Coarse Sea Salt: Enhances the flavors and adds a delightful crunch on top.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Rosemary Focaccia Bread:

Prepare the Dough

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and yeast.
2. Add Water and Oil: Gradually pour in the warm water and 1/4 cup of olive oil. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Shape the Dough

1. Prepare the Baking Pan: Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with olive oil.
2. Shape and Rest: Transfer the dough to the prepared pan and gently press it out to fit the shape of the pan. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes.
3. Dimple the Dough: Use your fingers to press dimples all over the surface of the dough.

Add Toppings and Bake

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Add Rosemary and Olive Oil: Drizzle 3 tbsp of olive oil over the dough, making sure it settles into the dimples. Sprinkle with chopped rosemary and coarse sea salt.
3. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and crisp around the edges.
4. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to Serve

Here are some ways to serve your Rosemary Focaccia Bread:

1. With Dipping Oils: Serve with a small bowl of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.
2. As a Side Dish: Pair with soups, stews, or salads for a hearty side.
3. For Sandwiches: Slice in half and use as sandwich bread for an extra special lunch.
4. With Cheese: Serve alongside a cheese and charcuterie board for a beautiful appetizer.
5. As a Pizza Base: Top with sauce, cheese, and other toppings to make a delicious focaccia pizza.

Additional Tips

Maximize your enjoyment of Rosemary Focaccia Bread with these helpful tips:

1. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary has a more intense flavor than dried, making your focaccia more aromatic.
2. Let It Rise: Be sure to give the dough plenty of time to rise for a light, airy texture.
3. Add Toppings: Experiment with other toppings like cherry tomatoes, garlic, or olives for different flavor profiles.
4. Don’t Over-Bake: Watch closely toward the end of baking to ensure it doesn’t become too hard.
5. Make It Ahead: The dough can be made in advance and refrigerated overnight for easy prep the next day.
6. Serve Warm: Focaccia is best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, or lightly reheated.

Recipe Variations

Consider these creative variations for your Rosemary Focaccia Bread:

• Garlic Focaccia: Add minced garlic to the dough or sprinkle on top before baking.
• Olive Focaccia: Add sliced black or green olives for a Mediterranean twist.
• Tomato Focaccia: Add halved cherry tomatoes for a juicy burst of flavor.
• Herb Focaccia: Mix in other herbs like thyme or oregano with the rosemary.
• Cheesy Focaccia: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella over the dough before baking.
• Whole Wheat Focaccia: Use half whole wheat flour for a healthier version.

Freezing and Storage

To keep your Rosemary Focaccia Bread fresh, follow these storage tips:

• Storage: Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the focaccia in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: Thaw frozen focaccia at room temperature, then reheat in a warm oven before serving.

Special Equipment

You’ll need the following tools to make Rosemary Focaccia Bread:

• Mixing Bowl: To combine the ingredients and knead the dough.
• 9×13-Inch Baking Pan: For baking the focaccia.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: To mix the dough.
• Kitchen Towel: For covering the dough during the rising process.
• Olive Oil Bottle: For drizzling on the dough before baking.

FAQ Section

Here are answers to common questions about Rosemary Focaccia Bread:

• Can I use dried rosemary?
  Yes, but fresh rosemary provides a more vibrant flavor. Use half the amount if using dried.
• How long does focaccia stay fresh?
  It’s best eaten the day it’s made but can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Can I freeze focaccia?
  Absolutely! Wrap it well and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Can I use a different flour?
  You can substitute part of the flour with whole wheat or spelt flour for a denser texture.

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Conclusion

I’m so excited for you to try this Rosemary Focaccia Bread! It’s the perfect balance of crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, with the fragrant rosemary bringing everything together. Whether you’re pairing it with a cozy dinner or enjoying it as a snack, this bread will quickly become a favorite in your home.

I can’t wait to see how your Rosemary Focaccia Bread turns out! Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty meal, dipping it in olive oil, or enjoying a slice on its own, this bread is sure to bring a touch of rustic charm to your table. The best part? It’s so easy to make, but looks and tastes like something straight from a bakery.

If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to know what you think! Feel free to leave a comment below with your feedback, tips, or even how you customized it to make it your own. Sharing is always more fun with friends, so don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I absolutely love seeing your delicious creations and how you bring them to life in your kitchen!

I’m genuinely thrilled for you to bake this Rosemary Focaccia Bread! There’s something so satisfying about pulling a golden, fragrant loaf from the oven, knowing you made it from scratch. The crispy edges, tender crumb, and burst of rosemary flavor will have everyone reaching for seconds. It’s perfect for casual dinners, entertaining guests, or just as a treat to yourself.

If you do make this bread (and I hope you do!), I’d love to hear how it went! Whether it’s your first time making focaccia or you’re a seasoned pro, share your experience in the comments below. Did you sprinkle some extra sea salt? Add a twist with other herbs? I’d love to know!

And of course, don’t forget to take a picture of your beautiful focaccia and tag me on social media. Seeing your homemade creations always makes my day, and I can’t wait to see how you made this recipe your own!