Save It A festive, aromatic Italian bread with a golden crust and a soft, pillowy interior, topped with fragrant rosemary sprigs and sea salt perfect for holiday gatherings.
This holiday bread instantly became a favorite at family gatherings thanks to its delightful aroma and easy preparation.
Ingredients
- Dough: 500 g (4 cups) bread flour, 350 ml (1½ cups) warm water (about 40°C/105°F), 10 g (2 tsp) fine sea salt, 7 g (2¼ tsp) instant dry yeast, 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Topping: 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp fresh rosemary sprigs, 1½ tsp flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt.
- Step 2:
- In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Step 3:
- Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the flour. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
- Step 4:
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Step 5:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Step 6:
- Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 7:
- Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet. Stretch and pat into a rectangle (about 30 x 20 cm).
- Step 8:
- Use your fingertips to dimple the surface deeply. Drizzle evenly with olive oil, and scatter rosemary sprigs and flaky sea salt on top.
- Step 9:
- Cover loosely and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Step 10:
- Bake for 22 25 minutes, or until deep golden brown and crisp on top.
- Step 11:
- Cool slightly, slice, and serve warm.
Save It Sharing this bread with my family during the holidays became a cherished tradition that filled the home with warmth and delicious scents.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, wooden spoon, measuring cups and spoons, baking sheet, parchment paper, kitchen towel
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten). May contain traces of sesame or nuts if processed in facilities handling these allergens. Check yeast and flour labels for cross-contamination if sensitive.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 220, Total Fat 7 g, Carbohydrates 34 g, Protein 5 g
Save It Enjoy this festive focaccia fresh from the oven for the best taste and texture.
Recipe FAQs
- → How long should I knead the dough?
Knead the dough for about 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, ensuring proper gluten development for a soft crumb.
- → Can I add toppings before baking?
Yes, for a festive twist, halved cherry tomatoes or thinly sliced olives can be added before baking to enhance flavor and appearance.
- → What temperature is best for baking?
Bake at 220°C (425°F) until the crust turns deep golden brown and crisp, approximately 22 to 25 minutes.
- → How do I achieve the dimpled surface?
Use your fingertips to deeply dimple the dough surface before drizzling olive oil and adding rosemary, which helps texture and flavor absorption.
- → Is it better to serve this bread warm or at room temperature?
Serving warm highlights the soft interior and fragrant toppings, enhancing the overall eating experience.