Here’s a super easy and delicious homemade focaccia bread recipe — crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and loaded with olive oil and herbs. Perfect for dipping, sandwiches, or just eating straight from the pan!
🍞 Homemade Focaccia Bread
⏱ Total Time: 2–3 hours (includes rising)
🍽 Makes: 1 large focaccia (9×13 pan)
🔥 Bake Temp: 425°F / 220°C
🧂 Ingredients:
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 ¾ cups warm water (about 100°F / 38°C)
- 1 tbsp sugar or honey
- 5 tbsp olive oil, divided (more for drizzling)
- 2 tsp salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- Flaky salt for topping
- Optional toppings: rosemary, garlic, cherry tomatoes, olives, caramelized onions, etc.
🔪 Instructions:
1. Activate Yeast
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar (or honey), and yeast.
- Let sit for 5–10 minutes, until it’s foamy.
2. Make the Dough
- Add salt, 2 tbsp olive oil, and flour to the yeast mixture.
- Mix with a spoon or dough hook until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead for 5–8 minutes (stand mixer or by hand) until smooth and elastic.
3. First Rise
- Lightly oil the bowl and cover with a towel or plastic wrap.
- Let rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
4. Pan & Second Rise
- Pour 2 tbsp olive oil into a 9×13-inch baking pan or sheet pan.
- Transfer the dough to the pan and gently stretch it to fill the pan.
- Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
5. Dimple the Dough
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Use your fingers to press deep dimples all over the surface.
- Drizzle with remaining olive oil and sprinkle with flaky salt and toppings.
6. Bake
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
7. Cool & Serve
- Let it cool slightly, then slice and serve warm or room temp.
🧄 Popular Topping Combos:
| Topping | Flavor Vibe |
|---|---|
| Rosemary + sea salt | Classic Italian |
| Cherry tomatoes + garlic | Sweet & savory |
| Olives + oregano | Mediterranean |
| Caramelized onion + thyme | Sweet & herbaceous |
🔁 Storage:
- Keeps 2–3 days at room temp (in a bag or covered).
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.