Save to Pinterest A festive, aromatic Italian bread with a golden crust and a soft, pillowy interior, topped with fragrant rosemary sprigs and sea salt perfect for holiday gatherings.
This focaccia quickly became a holiday favorite in our family, bringing everyone together around the table.
Ingredients
- Dough: 500 g (4 cups) bread flour, 350 ml (1½ cups) warm water (about 40°C/105°F), 10 g (2 tsp) fine sea salt, 7 g (2¼ tsp) instant dry yeast, 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Topping: 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp fresh rosemary sprigs, 1½ tsp flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt.
- Step 2:
- In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Step 3:
- Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the flour. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
- Step 4:
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Step 5:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Step 6:
- Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 7:
- Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet. Stretch and pat into a rectangle (about 30 x 20 cm).
- Step 8:
- Use your fingertips to dimple the surface deeply. Drizzle evenly with olive oil, and scatter rosemary sprigs and flaky sea salt on top.
- Step 9:
- Cover loosely and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Step 10:
- Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until deep golden brown and crisp on top.
- Step 11:
- Cool slightly, slice, and serve warm.
Save to Pinterest Sharing this bread has become a cherished family moment during our holiday celebrations.
Notes
For a festive touch add halved cherry tomatoes or thinly sliced olives before baking Best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated Pairs beautifully with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping or alongside cheeses and cured meats
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl Wooden spoon Measuring cups and spoons Baking sheet Parchment paper Kitchen towel
Nutritional Information
Calories 220 Total Fat 7 g Carbohydrates 34 g Protein 5 g per serving
Save to Pinterest This holiday bread brings aroma and warmth to any gathering enjoy every bite with your loved ones.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of flour is best for this bread?
Bread flour with a higher protein content helps develop gluten, giving the bread its chewy texture.
- → How do I know when the dough has risen enough?
The dough should double in size and feel soft and airy to the touch before shaping.
- → Can I add toppings before baking?
Yes, adding halved cherry tomatoes or sliced olives before baking adds festive flavors and color.
- → What is the purpose of dimpling the dough surface?
Dimpling helps trap olive oil and toppings, ensuring even flavor distribution and a traditional texture.
- → How should the bread be stored after baking?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness, or freeze for longer storage.
- → Can this bread be reheated?
Yes, gently warm slices before serving to restore softness and enhance aroma.