The moment the house begins to fill with the warm, buttery aroma of baking bread, it feels like a cozy embrace. That’s exactly what you can expect when making this Thick & Fluffy Focaccia Bread. After a long day, there’s nothing more soothing than kneading this simple dough and waiting for it to rise, promising thick, pillowy slices ready to elevate any meal.
What makes this bread truly special is its versatility. Serve it with olive oil for dipping, pile it high with your favorite sandwich fillings, or even pair it as a delightful side with soups and salads. Best of all, it’s an overnight wonder, letting you prep the dough with minimal fuss, so you can enjoy homemade goodness without dedicating an entire day to baking.
Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delicious, satisfying journey of making Focaccia that brings everyone to the table!
Why is Thick & Fluffy Focaccia Bread so irresistible?
Aromas fill your kitchen: The intoxicating scent of baking focaccia will make everyone feel at home.
Hands-on fun: Kneading and shaping the dough is a perfect way to unwind after a long day.
Endless options: Customize with your favorite toppings for a unique twist every time.
Quick and easy: This overnight recipe saves time without compromising taste, allowing you to enjoy homemade bread with minimal effort.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether served as a side, snack, or sandwich base, it’s guaranteed to impress family and friends!
Thick & Fluffy Focaccia Bread Ingredients
For the Dough
• 5 cups Bread Flour – Provides structure and texture; substitute with all-purpose flour if needed, but bread flour gives a better chew.
• 3 teaspoons Salt – Enhances flavor and controls yeast fermentation; use kosher salt as a substitute for a similar taste.
• 3 teaspoons Instant Yeast – Leavens the bread for light, airy texture; active dry yeast can also be used if proofed first.
• 2 teaspoons Diastatic Malt Powder – Adds sweetness and enhances browning; you can omit this or use malt syrup as a substitute.
• 3 cups Warm Water – Hydrates the flour effectively; ensure the water is around 110°F for optimal yeast activation.
• 110-115 ml Good-Quality Olive Oil – Adds flavor and moisture while slicking the dough; any light oil can substitute for a more subtle taste.
For the Topping
• Maldon Flaky Salt – Sprinkle on top for texture and flavor bursts; coarse sea salt can work as a substitute in a pinch.
• Fresh Chopped Rosemary (optional) – Offers a fragrant herbal note and complements the focaccia beautifully; omit or substitute with thyme or oregano if desired.
Delight in the process of crafting your Thick & Fluffy Focaccia Bread, and watch as the magic unfolds in your kitchen!
How to Make Thick & Fluffy Focaccia Bread
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Whisk Together: In a large bowl, whisk the bread flour, salt, yeast, and diastatic malt powder together until combined. This blend forms the foundation for your focaccia, setting you up for success!
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Mix in Water: Pour in the warm water and mix until a sticky dough forms. Aim for a thick consistency that pulls away from the sides of the bowl but still feels a bit tacky to the touch.
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Oil It Up: Brush the surface of your dough generously with olive oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 12 to 18 hours. This cold-proofing will enhance the flavor greatly, giving you that signature focaccia taste.
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Prepare the Pan: After that wait, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish, drizzle more olive oil, and spread it around. This will help the focaccia not stick, creating a lovely crust.
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Shape the Dough: Gently remove the dough from the bowl. Deflate it softly and place it in the oiled pan without stretching it too much. This ensures your focaccia maintains a lovely fluffy texture.
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Let it Rise: Brush the top of the dough with more olive oil and cover it with a towel or plastic wrap. Let it rest at room temperature for 1 to 3 hours, until the dough rises and becomes puffy.
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Preheat the Oven: While the dough rises, preheat your oven to 425°F. A hot oven will create that perfect crust that contrasts beautifully with the airy interior.
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Dimple and Season: Once risen, use oiled fingertips to gently dimple the surface of the dough. Sprinkle with Maldon flaky salt and the optional chopped rosemary for an aromatic touch.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-27 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a rack for cooling.
Optional: Serve warm, cut into squares, with olive oil or balsamic vinegar for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Thick & Fluffy Focaccia Bread
Room Temperature: Store cooled focaccia in an airtight container or wrap it in foil and keep at room temperature for up to 3 days. This preserves its soft texture.
Fridge: While not preferred, if stored in the fridge, focaccia can last for up to a week. Make sure it is well-wrapped to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: Wrap focaccia tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for freezing. It can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes for best results. Enjoy the warm, pillowy goodness of your Thick & Fluffy Focaccia Bread!
Thick & Fluffy Focaccia Bread Variations
Feel free to get creative with your focaccia, and let your taste buds guide you on this delightful journey!
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Herb-Infused: Mix dried or fresh herbs into the dough for aromatic flavor throughout. Think basil, thyme, or oregano for an Italian twist.
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Cheesy: Sprinkle shredded cheese, such as mozzarella or parmesan, over the top before baking for a gooey, savory touch. The melted cheese creates a delectably rich crust.
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Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the dough or sprinkle on top before baking to give your focaccia a pleasant heat. It’ll brighten your palate in every bite!
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Olive-Laden: Fold in pitted kalamata or green olives into the dough for a briny punch. These little gems make every slice even more irresistible.
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Sweet Twist: Drizzle honey on top before serving or mix in a bit of sugar to the dough; it’s perfect for creating a sweet snack or breakfast treat. Paired with butter, it’s pure bliss.
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Roasted Veggies: Top the dough with roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes before baking for added flavor and a burst of freshness. These love to caramelize, bringing even more depth.
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Mediterranean Style: Incorporate sundried tomatoes and feta cheese into the batter for a bite that dances on your tongue. It’s like a mini vacation to the Mediterranean!
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in a mix of seeds or nuts, like sunflower seeds or walnuts, for added texture and a nutty flavor that complements the fluffiness beautifully.
Make Ahead Options
These Thick & Fluffy Focaccia Bread are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ingredients and allowing it to cold-proof in the refrigerator. After this, simply remove the dough, let it rest at room temperature for 1 to 3 hours until puffy, and then shape and bake as directed. If you’re looking to save even more time, you can bake the focaccia and store it wrapped in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. To enjoy it fresh later, simply reheat in the oven, ensuring it stays just as delicious and fluffy as the first day!
What to Serve with Thick & Fluffy Focaccia Bread?
The perfect focaccia deserves delightful companions that elevate your meal and tantalize your taste buds.
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Olive Oil Dip: The classic combo! High-quality olive oil with a splash of balsamic vinegar creates a heavenly dip that’s utterly addictive.
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Hearty Soups: A bowl of warm minestrone or creamy tomato soup harmonizes perfectly, with focaccia soaking up all those delicious flavors.
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Fresh Green Salad: Crisp greens with a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the pillowy bread, making for a balanced meal.
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Savory Charcuterie Board: Pair your focaccia with cured meats, cheeses, and assorted condiments for a vibrant platter ideal for gatherings or cozy evenings.
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Cheesy Garlic Scallion Butter: Spread this luscious compound butter on warm focaccia for a burst of flavor that will make your taste buds sing.
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Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside a colorful mix of roasted seasonal vegetables for a wholesome addition that adds texture and nutrients to the table.
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Sparkling Lemonade: To quench your thirst, a refreshing glass of homemade sparkling lemonade enhances your meal with a lively zest.
Indulge in these pairings to transform your Thick & Fluffy Focaccia Bread into an unforgettable feast!
Expert Tips for Thick & Fluffy Focaccia Bread
• Cold-Proofing Matters: Allowing the dough to cold-proof enhances flavor and texture. Don’t rush this step; patience rewards you with superior focaccia!
• Perfect Dimpling: Dimpling the dough not only creates character but also promotes even baking. Gently use your oiled fingers to achieve those signature wells.
• Avoid Overcrowding: While toppings can be tempting, avoid piling them on. A light hand ensures every bite maintains that delightful thick and fluffy texture.
Thick & Fluffy Focaccia Bread Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right flour for Thick & Fluffy Focaccia Bread?
Choosing bread flour will give your focaccia the ideal structure and chewy texture. If you can’t find it, all-purpose flour can substitute, but for best results, stick to bread flour.
How should I store leftover focaccia?
To keep your focaccia fresh, allow it to cool completely before storing it. Place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in foil at room temperature, where it should last for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.
Can I freeze Thick & Fluffy Focaccia Bread?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap your focaccia tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, ensuring no air can enter. It will stay delicious for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
What should I do if my focaccia dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, it might be due to inactive yeast or incorrect water temperature. Always use warm water (around 110°F) for activation. If your yeast is old or expired, consider using fresh yeast for better results next time!
Is Thick & Fluffy Focaccia Bread safe for those with allergies?
Focaccia traditionally contains wheat gluten, so it’s not suitable for those with gluten allergies or celiac disease. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens and consider using gluten-free flour blends for a variation, though the texture may differ.
Can I add toppings to my focaccia?
Very! Feel free to add toppings like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh herbs before baking. Just be cautious not to overload the dough, as this can compromise its thick and fluffy texture. Enjoy customizing it to your taste!
Thick & Fluffy Focaccia Bread: Your New Homemade Obsession
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk the bread flour, salt, yeast, and diastatic malt powder together until combined.
- Pour in the warm water and mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Brush the surface of your dough generously with olive oil. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 12 to 18 hours.
- Drizzle more olive oil in a 9x13-inch baking dish and spread it around.
- Gently remove the dough from the bowl, deflate it softly and place it in the oiled pan.
- Brush the top of the dough with more olive oil and cover it. Let it rest at room temperature for 1 to 3 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- Use oiled fingertips to gently dimple the surface of the dough. Sprinkle with Maldon flaky salt and optional chopped rosemary.
- Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-27 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a rack.