There’s just something magical about baking homemade bread, isn’t there? The aroma that fills your kitchen, the anticipation as it rises, and that first warm slice—pure bliss! My absolute favorite is Rosemary Focaccia. It’s soft, fluffy, and the fresh rosemary adds a delightful earthy note that makes every bite a little moment of joy. I remember one family gathering where I brought this golden beauty to the table, and it disappeared faster than I could say “focaccia!” We dipped it in olive oil, savored it with cheese, and laughed until our sides hurt. Trust me, this bread is a crowd-pleaser and a perfect companion for any meal. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients List
For this delightful Rosemary Focaccia, you’ll need some simple ingredients that come together to create magic. Here’s what you’ll gather:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
Make sure to grab fresh rosemary for that aromatic flavor that sets this bread apart. You’ll love how it transforms your kitchen into a cozy Italian bakery. Happy baking!
How to Prepare Rosemary Focaccia
Getting started on your Rosemary Focaccia is an exciting journey—I promise you won’t regret it! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a deliciously soft and fluffy bread ready to impress everyone.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Activating the Yeast
First things first, let’s wake up the yeast! In a bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of warm water (make sure it’s about 110°F, not too hot!) with 1 teaspoon of sugar and 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) of active dry yeast. Give it a gentle stir and let it sit for 5 minutes. You’ll see it start to foam, which means it’s ready to work its magic!
Mixing the Dough
Once your yeast is activated and all bubbly, it’s time to bring in the flour! Add 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 2 teaspoons of salt to the yeast mixture. Stir it all together until a shaggy dough forms. Now comes the fun part—kneading! Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes. You want it to be smooth and elastic. Trust me, this is where all the love goes in!
First Rise
After kneading, place the dough in a greased bowl, turning it around so it gets a little oil on all sides. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour. This is the time when your dough will double in size. It should look puffy and full of life—so satisfying!
Shaping and Second Rise
Once it’s risen, gently punch down the dough to release those air bubbles. Now, spread it out onto a baking sheet, shaping it into a rectangle or circle—whatever floats your boat! Drizzle about 1/4 cup of olive oil all over the top and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh rosemary. Let it rise again for another 20 minutes. You’ll notice it puffing up again, and that’s just what we want!
Baking
Now, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). After the second rise, pop your focaccia in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and smells heavenly. When it’s done, it’ll have a beautiful crust and a soft interior—just the way focaccia should be! Let it cool slightly before slicing, and then dig in!
Tips for Success
To ensure your Rosemary Focaccia turns out perfectly every time, here are a few handy tips! First, always use fresh rosemary—dried just doesn’t give you that vibrant flavor or aroma. If you can, try adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before baking; it adds a lovely crunch and enhances the overall taste. Also, don’t rush the rising process! Giving your dough the full time to rise will make it wonderfully airy and fluffy. If your kitchen is a bit chilly, you can create a warm spot by placing the dough near a warm oven or covering it with a blanket. And remember, each oven is different, so keep an eye on it while it bakes to achieve that perfect golden brown! Happy baking!
Nutritional Information
When you enjoy a slice of my delicious Rosemary Focaccia, it’s good to know what you’re indulging in! Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving, based on standard ingredients:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sugar: 0g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients you use. Enjoy your focaccia guilt-free, knowing it’s a delightful addition to your meal!
FAQ Section
How do I store leftover Rosemary Focaccia?
Storing leftover Rosemary Focaccia is super simple! Just place any uneaten bread in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh for a couple of days on the counter. If you want to keep it longer, I recommend wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and storing it in the fridge. Just remember, it’s best enjoyed fresh, so try to finish it off within a few days. You won’t want to let this deliciousness go to waste!
Can I freeze Rosemary Focaccia?
Absolutely! Freezing Rosemary Focaccia is a great way to enjoy this bread later. Let it cool completely after baking, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just take it out and let it thaw in the fridge overnight. You can warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to bring back that fresh-baked flavor. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
What can I serve with Rosemary Focaccia?
Rosemary Focaccia pairs beautifully with so many dishes! It’s perfect for dipping in olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a simple appetizer. You could also enjoy it alongside a hearty soup or salad—think minestrone or a fresh arugula salad. If you’re feeling fancy, slice it up to make a delicious sandwich, perhaps with some fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. The options are endless, and whatever you choose, it’ll be a delightful addition to your meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Making Rosemary Focaccia at home is truly a rewarding experience, and I can’t wait to share why you’ll absolutely adore it:
- Incredible Flavor: The combination of fresh rosemary and olive oil creates a fragrant, savory bread that’s simply irresistible.
- Soft and Fluffy Texture: With just the right amount of kneading and rising, each bite is light and airy—perfect for sandwiches or enjoying on its own.
- Simple Ingredients: You don’t need fancy supplies or obscure ingredients; just basic pantry staples come together beautifully.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, or toppings. Add garlic or sun-dried tomatoes for a twist!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner, a festive gathering, or a cozy night in, this focaccia is always a hit.
- Fun to Make: The process of kneading and shaping the dough is therapeutic and satisfying, making it a great activity to share with family or friends.
- Impressive Presentation: The golden-brown crust and beautiful rosemary flecks make it a stunning centerpiece for any table.
Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked and wondering how you ever lived without homemade focaccia in your life!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous (and I know you are!), there are so many fun ways to customize your Rosemary Focaccia and make it uniquely yours. Here are a few delicious ideas to get those creative juices flowing:
- Herb Medley: Swap out the rosemary for other fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil. Each herb brings its own personality to the bread, creating delightful flavor twists!
- Garlic Lover’s Delight: Add minced garlic or garlic powder to the dough for a fragrant, savory kick. You can also sprinkle some on top before baking for that irresistible aroma!
- Cheesy Focaccia: Mix in some grated parmesan or mozzarella cheese into the dough, or sprinkle it on top before baking for a cheesy crust that’s absolutely divine.
- Tomato and Olive: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or Kalamata olives right into the dough for bursts of flavor with every bite. They complement the rosemary beautifully!
- Spicy Twist: For those who like a little heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the top before baking. It’ll add a nice kick that pairs perfectly with the fluffy bread.
- Sweet Focaccia: Try a hint of sweetness by adding a tablespoon of honey to the dough or topping it with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar before baking for a dessert-style focaccia.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas! Baking is all about having fun and experimenting, so don’t hesitate to get creative. Your Rosemary Focaccia will turn out amazing every time, no matter what you choose!
Print
Rosemary Focaccia: 7 Irresistible Tips for Perfection
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 1 large focaccia 1x
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A soft, fluffy Italian bread topped with fresh rosemary.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Add flour and salt to the mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover and let it rise for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Punch down the dough and spread it onto a baking sheet.
- Drizzle olive oil on top and sprinkle with rosemary.
- Let it rise for another 20 minutes.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
- Use fresh rosemary for the best flavor.
- Try adding sea salt on top before baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Rosemary Focaccia, Italian Bread, Homemade Bread