Best Focaccia One Loaf Recipe

If you’ve been searching for the best focaccia one loaf recipe, you’re in the right place. This classic Italian bread is known for its golden crust, soft and airy interior, and tantalizing flavor. The magic of focaccia lies in its simplicity, and with this one-loaf recipe, you’ll learn how to create an easy, delicious bread that will amaze your friends and family. Whether it’s your first attempt or you’re a seasoned baker, this recipe is all you need to achieve the best results.

Ingredients and Equipment Needed

Ingredients

All-purpose flour – 500 grams (about 4 cups)
Active dry yeast – 2 teaspoons
Warm water – 300 ml (about 1 ¼ cups, around 110°F)
Olive oil – 5 tablespoons (divided)
Sea salt – 2 teaspoons
Sugar – 1 teaspoon
Fresh rosemary – 2 tablespoons (optional)
Flaky sea salt – for sprinkling

Time Needed: Approx. 3 hours, including rising and baking.

Equipment

Mixing bowl
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Baking sheet or round baking pan
Parchment paper
Clean kitchen towel
Pastry brush
Stand mixer (optional)

Instructions for the Best Focaccia One Loaf Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast (10 minutes)

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir until the yeast and sugar dissolve. Let it rest for about 10 minutes or until it becomes frothy. This step ensures your yeast is active, which will lead to the best focaccia texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough (10 minutes)

Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sea salt. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing until a rough dough forms. You can do this using a wooden spoon or a stand mixer with a dough hook if preferred. Knead the dough by hand or in the mixer for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise (1 hour)

Transfer the dough into a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. The warm environment will help the dough rise properly, making this the best focaccia one loaf you could make.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Pan and Shape the Dough (5 minutes)

Line your baking sheet or round baking pan with parchment paper. Brush the parchment with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Transfer the risen dough to the baking pan and gently press it out with your hands to shape it evenly, ensuring it covers the pan. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly even—the rustic look is part of the focaccia’s charm.

Step 5: Second Rise (30 minutes)

Cover the dough again with a kitchen towel and allow it to rise for another 30 minutes. During this second rise, the dough will become puffier, resulting in a beautifully airy focaccia bread.

Step 6: Create the Signature Dimples and Add Toppings (5 minutes)

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Once the dough has risen for the second time, use your fingertips to gently press down and create dimples across the surface of the dough. Be careful not to puncture through the dough. These dimples are crucial for trapping pockets of olive oil, making the focaccia soft and flavorful.

Brush the surface generously with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle fresh rosemary and flaky sea salt evenly across the dough for added flavor.

Step 7: Bake the Focaccia (25-30 minutes)

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top turns a beautiful golden brown. The aroma of fresh focaccia baking is incredible, filling your home with a mouthwatering scent.

Step 8: Cool and Serve (15 minutes)

Once baked, remove the focaccia from the oven and allow it to cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. The waiting time might seem long, but it helps to develop the flavors and makes cutting easier without losing its shape.

Tips for Making the Best Focaccia One Loaf Recipe

Choosing the Right Olive Oil

The quality of olive oil greatly affects the flavor of your focaccia. Use extra virgin olive oil for the best taste. A good olive oil adds depth to the bread’s flavor, which is why it’s so crucial in this best focaccia one loaf recipe.

Optional Additions

Feel free to experiment with toppings! Besides rosemary, you can add cherry tomatoes, garlic, or even caramelized onions to give your focaccia more character. Just remember, simplicity is the key to authentic focaccia.

How to Store Focaccia

To keep your focaccia fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze focaccia for up to a month. Simply reheat it in the oven for a few minutes to enjoy that fresh-baked taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Makes Focaccia Different from Other Breads?

Focaccia is unique due to its high olive oil content and its signature dimpled surface, which allows the oil and toppings to flavor the bread thoroughly. It’s also much quicker to prepare compared to other breads that may need extended fermentation.

Can I Make This Best Focaccia One Loaf Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. However, keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly since gluten plays a significant role in the structure of bread.

How Do I Achieve a Crispy Bottom Crust?

To get a crispy bottom crust, make sure you use parchment paper and generously coat it with olive oil. Baking the focaccia on a preheated baking stone can also help achieve a crispier base.

Why is My Dough Sticky?

Focaccia dough tends to be a bit sticky because of its high hydration level. If the dough is too sticky to handle, lightly flour your hands while shaping it. Avoid adding too much extra flour, as it can make the bread denser.

How Can I Tell if My Focaccia is Done Baking?

Your focaccia should have a golden-brown color on top, and it should sound hollow when tapped lightly. This indicates that the inside is well-baked.

Why Does My Focaccia Dough Need Two Rises?

The two rises give focaccia its airy and soft texture. The first rise develops the gluten structure and allows the yeast to ferment, while the second rise gives the dough more volume and makes the final bread extra light and fluffy.

Can I Make the Best Focaccia One Loaf Recipe Without Rosemary?

Absolutely! The beauty of focaccia is its versatility. You can use other herbs like thyme, oregano, or even top it with sliced olives for added flavor. It’s the simple ingredients and attention to detail that make this the best focaccia recipe.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your freshly baked focaccia alongside soups, salads, or use it to make sandwiches. It also pairs wonderfully with a balsamic vinegar and olive oil dip for a classic Italian appetizer experience.

Why is Olive Oil Brushed After Baking?

Brushing the focaccia with more olive oil after baking is a traditional touch that helps keep the crust moist and adds an extra punch of flavor. It keeps the bread tender on the inside while making the crust rich and aromatic.

The Best Focaccia One Loaf Recipe for Beginners

This recipe is perfect for beginners because it is forgiving, and it doesn’t require specialized techniques. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can make this delicious focaccia at home. Remember, the key is patience—allowing time for the dough to properly rise is what makes focaccia so fluffy and flavorful.

Adjusting the Recipe for Different Flavors

You can adjust this best focaccia one loaf recipe to suit your tastes. Adding sun-dried tomatoes, basil, or even sprinkling it with parmesan cheese before baking adds unique flavors. Don’t be afraid to get creative; focaccia is an ideal canvas for culinary expression.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Why Didn’t My Focaccia Rise Properly?

If your focaccia didn’t rise well, it could be due to inactive yeast, water that was either too hot or too cold, or an environment that was too cool for rising. Ensure the water is around 110°F to activate the yeast properly, and give the dough a warm place to rise.

How Do I Prevent a Dense Focaccia?

To prevent a dense focaccia, make sure the yeast is active and the dough is allowed enough time to rise. Under-kneading or rushing the rising process often results in denser bread.