Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe | Homemade Italian Focaccia

If you’ve ever wanted to make bakery-style focaccia bread at home, this easy focaccia recipe is just what you need. With a light, fluffy inside and a golden, crispy crust, focaccia is one of the most loved Italian breads. It’s perfect as a side with soups, pasta, or even on its own with a drizzle of olive oil. The best part? This recipe requires simple ingredients and minimal effort, making it a beginner-friendly bake that always impresses.

What is Focaccia Bread?

Focaccia is a traditional Italian flatbread known for its airy texture, crisp edges, and signature dimpled surface. It’s often flavored with olive oil, sea salt, and herbs like rosemary or thyme. This bread is similar to pizza dough but slightly thicker and fluffier. It can be enjoyed plain, topped with vegetables, or even used for sandwiches.

Ingredients You’ll Need

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

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup warm water
• 2 tsp dry yeast
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 3 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
• Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
• Sea salt flakes for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–7 minutes until foamy. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Slowly add the yeast mixture along with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Knead into a soft dough.

Step 2: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1–2 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape the Dough

Once risen, transfer the dough to a greased baking pan. Gently stretch it to fit the pan. Cover again and let it rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 4: Create the Dimples

Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Drizzle olive oil generously over the dough. Use your fingers to press small dimples across the surface. Sprinkle sea salt and fresh herbs on top.

Step 5: Bake the Focaccia

Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown. Once out of the oven, drizzle a little more olive oil for extra flavor.

Tips for Perfect Focaccia

• Use good olive oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil adds the best flavor.
• Don’t skip the dimples: They hold olive oil and toppings beautifully.
• Experiment with toppings: Try garlic, cherry tomatoes, caramelized onions, or olives.
• Serve warm: Focaccia tastes best fresh out of the oven.

Serving Ideas

• Pair it with soups like tomato basil or minestrone.
• Slice and use as sandwich bread.
• Serve as an appetizer with dipping oils or hummus.
• Enjoy it plain as a simple snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This homemade focaccia bread recipe is:

• Beginner-friendly
• Requires only basic pantry ingredients
• Soft, fluffy, and flavorful
• Versatile – perfect for any meal