Christmas Focaccia Bread
A festive and customizable bread topped with colorful ingredients, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
For the dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour blend.
- 2 teaspoons salt Adjust for lower sodium option.
- 1 teaspoon sugar Used to activate yeast.
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast Ensure yeast is fresh for good rise.
- 1 ½ cups warm water Temperature should be around 110°F (43°C).
- ¼ cup olive oil Use high-quality olive oil for better flavor.
For the toppings
- Assorted toppings (cherry tomatoes, rosemary, olives, etc.) Customize as per preference.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your ingredients and measure accurately.
- Combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl, allowing to froth for 5-10 minutes.
Making the Dough
- Once frothy, add in the flour and salt. Mix until a rough dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- After the dough has risen, gently punch it down and shape it into a rectangle or circle.
- Transfer the shaped dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Using your fingers, create dimples all over the surface and drizzle generously with olive oil.
- Add your assorted toppings creatively.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden and aromatic.
Cooling and Serving
- Allow the bread to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or freeze for longer storage.