Authentic Homemade Focaccia Italian Bread

Full recipe>>> Servings

 

Makes: 1 large focaccia (9×13 in / 23×33 cm)

 

Serves: 8–10 slices

 

🧾 Ingredients

Dough

 

4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chew)

 

2¼ tsp (7 g) active dry yeast

 

2 tsp sugar or honey

 

1¾ cups (415 ml) warm water (105–110°F / 40–43°C)

 

2 tsp fine sea salt

 

¼ cup (60 ml) extra-virgin olive oil

 

Topping

 

3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

 

2–3 sprigs fresh rosemary, needles removed

 

Flaky sea salt, to taste

 

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

 

In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.

 

2. Make the Dough

 

Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a sticky dough forms. No kneading needed—just mix until combined.

 

3. First Rise

 

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Let rise in a warm place 1–1½ hours, until doubled.

 

4. Shape the Focaccia

 

Generously oil a baking pan. Transfer dough to the pan and gently stretch it to fit. If it resists, rest 10 minutes and continue.

 

5. Second Rise

 

Cover and let rise 30–45 minutes until puffy.

 

6. Dimple & Top

 

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Drizzle olive oil over dough. Press deep dimples with your fingertips. Sprinkle rosemary and flaky salt.

 

7. Bake

 

Bake 20–25 minutes until deeply golden. Cool slightly before slicing.

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