Focaccia

If you’ve never made homemade bread, focaccia is the perfect place to start. It’s forgiving, flavorful, and so satisfying—especially when it comes out of the oven all golden, puffed, and drizzled in olive oil. I promise, this bread will make your whole kitchen smell like a bakery.

And the best part? You don’t need any fancy equipment. No stand mixer or overnight waiting, just a bowl, a spoon, and your hands. Yes ma’am!

---

Why You’ll Love This Focaccia:

• No kneading or mixer required
• Soft and fluffy on the inside, golden and crisp on the outside
• Takes basic pantry ingredients and turns them into something special
• Delicious on its own or served with soup, salad, or grilled skewers

---

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (that’s one packet)
• 1⅓ cups warm water (around 110°F—not too hot!)
• 1 tsp sugar or honey
• 3½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• ¼ cup olive oil (plus more for the pan and drizzling)
• Optional toppings: flaky salt, rosemary, sliced garlic, cherry tomatoes, olives, etc.

---

Let’s Make It:

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar (or honey), and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Stir in the flour, salt, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. It’ll be sticky, and that’s perfect!

Step 3: First Rise

Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape & Second Rise

Generously oil a 9×13 baking dish. Transfer the dough into the pan—don’t punch it down! Just gently stretch it to fit. Cover again and let it rest for 20–30 minutes.

Step 5: Dimple & Top

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Drizzle more olive oil over the top, then press your fingertips into the dough to create those classic little dimples. Add your toppings (if using).

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. Let it cool slightly, then slice and serve.

---

Ways to Serve Focaccia:

• Dip it in olive oil and balsamic (or just plain oil with salt and pepper!)
• Slice for sandwiches—so good with roasted veggies or deli meat
• Cut into strips and serve with soup or salad
• Enjoy as a side with your grilled beef skewers

---

Tips:

• The olive oil is what gives focaccia its beautiful texture and flavor—don’t be shy with it!
• This bread is best the day it’s baked but makes amazing toast the next morning too.

---

Final Thoughts:

Making homemade bread doesn’t have to be intimidating. This focaccia recipe is simple, forgiving, and makes you feel like you’ve done something wonderful—because you have. It’s golden, it’s fluffy, and it’s made with love. That’s what home cooking is all about.

Let me know in the comments if you make this—tag me if you post a photo!
And as always, I love you. You are perfect as you are. Happy baking. See you in the next one. Bye bye! 💕