Name: Mouthwatering Rosemary Focaccia Bread You Can Make Easily
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1055 min
Ingredients: 1.75 cups Warm Water (Be careful not to use water that's too hot.); 2 teaspoons Active Dried Yeast (Provides leavening for the bread.); 0.25 cups Olive Oil (Add richness to the bread.); 4 cups All-Purpose Flour (The backbone of your focaccia.); 2 teaspoons Salt (Opt for fine table salt or kosher salt.); 0.5 cups Fresh Rosemary (Only the leaves should be used.); to taste Flaky Sea Salt (Optional sprinkle for flavor.)

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As I pulled freshly baked focaccia out of the oven, the aroma of rosemary wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to an Italian trattoria. This Easy No-Knead Rosemary Focaccia Bread is more than just a side dish; it’s a show-stopper that invites everyone to the table. With just six simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this vegan bread is a perfect choice for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs in search of easy yet impressive recipes. Not only is it incredibly soft and chewy with a delightful golden crust, but it’s also freezer-friendly—making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Whether you’re pairing it with a vibrant salad, indulging in a cozy soup, or savoring it on its own, this focaccia promises comfort with every bite. So, are you ready to elevate your homemade bread game? Let’s dive in!

Why Should You Make This Focaccia?

Simplicity: With just six ingredients, this focaccia is a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining.

Deliciously Versatile: Top your focaccia with your favorite ingredients like olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a unique twist, similar to options in my other recipes like Herb Calabrian Bread.

Freezer-Friendly: You can easily freeze leftovers, ensuring you always have a homemade bread option on hand when cravings strike.

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s served as table bread or a hearty base for sandwiches, this focaccia is sure to impress at any gathering.

Flavorful Aroma: The heavenly scent of rosemary while baking is simply irresistible, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in your kitchen.

Elevate your meals with this rosemary focaccia that comforts and delights with every slice!

Rosemary Focaccia Bread Ingredients

For the Dough

Warm Water – Activates the yeast; be careful not to use water that’s too hot to avoid killing it.
Active Dried Yeast – Provides the necessary leavening for this fluffy Rosemary Focaccia Bread.
Olive Oil – Adds richness to the bread; using it at different stages enhances texture.
All-Purpose Flour – The backbone of your focaccia; ensures a lovely elasticity in the dough.
Salt – Boosts flavor and regulates yeast activity; opt for fine table salt or kosher salt.
Fresh Rosemary – Brings a fragrant, herbal note to your focaccia; only the leaves should be used.

For Topping

Flaky Sea Salt – An optional sprinkle on top that delivers an extra crunch and punch of flavor.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Rosemary Focaccia Bread

Step 1: Prepare Yeast Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ¾ cups of warm water with 2 teaspoons of active dried yeast. Allow this mixture to sit for 3-5 minutes until it becomes bubbly, signaling that the yeast is active and ready to leaven your rosemary focaccia bread.

Step 2: Mix Dough
After the yeast is frothy, stir in ¼ cup of olive oil, then add 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 2 teaspoons of salt. Use a spatula to mix until no flour streaks remain, creating a shaggy dough. This should take about 2-3 minutes; don’t worry about perfection, as it will come together during rising.

Step 3: First Rise
Shape the dough into a rough ball and coat it lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and refrigerate for 10-24 hours to develop flavors. This slow fermentation will give your rosemary focaccia bread a complex taste and better texture.

Step 4: Second Rise
Remove the dough from the refrigerator and lightly grease a 9×13-inch pan with olive oil. Gently deflate the dough and stretch it to fit the pan, ensuring it reaches the corners. Cover it again and let it rise at room temperature for 2-3 hours, until doubled in size and visibly puffy.

Step 5: Preheat Oven
While the dough finishes rising, preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). This ensures that your oven is hot enough to create a beautifully crisp crust on your rosemary focaccia bread once it’s ready to bake.

Step 6: Dimple Dough
After the second rise, drizzle some olive oil over the surface of the dough. Use your fingers to create deep dimples all over the top, which will hold the oil and enhance the focaccia’s signature texture. This is where your rosemary focaccia bread starts to take shape!

Step 7: Add Toppings
Sprinkle fresh rosemary leaves evenly over the surface of the dimpled dough, followed by a generous pinch of flaky sea salt. This adds a satisfying crunch and elevates the flavor profile of your delicious rosemary focaccia bread.

Step 8: Bake
Carefully place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes. Keep an eye on the focaccia as it bakes; it should turn a golden brown color, and when you tap the bottom, it should sound hollow, indicating it’s fully cooked.

Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked to perfection, remove the focaccia from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy your homemade rosemary focaccia bread warm or at room temperature!

How to Store and Freeze Rosemary Focaccia Bread

Room Temperature: Keep leftover focaccia in a resealable bag or wrapped in parchment paper for up to 3-4 days to maintain its softness.

Fridge: Storing in the refrigerator is not recommended as it can dry out the bread faster than at room temperature.

Freezer: For longer storage, slice the focaccia and freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.

Reheating: To enjoy your rosemary focaccia bread warm, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.

Make Ahead Options

This Easy No-Knead Rosemary Focaccia Bread is perfect for meal prep, allowing busy cooks to enjoy homemade goodness with ease! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by refrigerating it after the first rise, which enhances its flavor. To maintain the quality, ensure the dough is lightly coated with olive oil and covered tightly to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply stretch the dough into the pan and let it rise at room temperature for 2-3 hours until puffy. After that, follow the final steps of dimpling, adding your toppings, and baking for a delightful, oven-fresh bread that’s just as delicious as if it were made the same day!

Expert Tips for Rosemary Focaccia Bread

Flavor Boost: For a deeper flavor, consider adding minced garlic or herbs like thyme and oregano to the dough mix.
Yeast Activation: Ensure the water is warm but not hot; if it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast, affecting your Rosemary Focaccia Bread rise.
Handling Stickiness: If the dough is too sticky when shaping, lightly oil your hands to prevent it from clinging while working.
Topping Ideas: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Try topping with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or caramelized onions to create unique flavor profiles.
Baking Timing: Keep an eye on the bread while baking; oven temperatures can vary, and you want a perfectly golden crust without burning it.
Proper Cooling: Allow your focaccia bread to cool completely on a wire rack after baking to maintain its crustiness—this prevents sogginess.

Rosemary Focaccia Bread Variations

Feel free to customize your focaccia with these delicious twists that will tantalize your taste buds and elevate your baking experience!

Herb Infusion: Add chopped fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for an aromatic twist that complements the rosemary beautifully.
Flavorful Mix-Ins: Toss in minced garlic or caramelized onions into the dough for an extra burst of flavor that will have your family coming back for more.
Cheesy Goodness: For cheese lovers, sprinkle shredded vegan cheese on top before baking for a gooey and delicious layer.
Zesty Toppings: Top with sun-dried tomatoes or olives to bring a bright, briny flavor to your focaccia that pairs perfectly with a hearty soup or salad.
Spicy Kick: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the dough or sprinkle on top for those who crave a bit of heat—it’s a game changer!
Mediterranean Delight: Incorporate artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers into the mix to create a Mediterranean-inspired bread that’s perfect for gatherings.
Sweet Twist: Drizzle some honey or add a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar after baking for a sweet variation that contrasts the savory notes of the focaccia.

If you’re looking for other delightful recipes, why not try my fudge brownie bread or indulge in a slice of lemon blueberry shortbread mousse cake? You’ll discover even more delicious ways to bring joy to your kitchen!

What to Serve with Easy No-Knead Rosemary Focaccia Bread

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked focaccia filling your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table.

Vibrant Salad: Pair your focaccia with a refreshing salad, like a classic Caprese, to balance its rich flavors and add a burst of freshness.
Hearty Soup: A warm bowl of tomato basil soup complements the focaccia’s texture beautifully, perfect for dipping those golden crusty edges!
Olive Oil Dip: Serve alongside a small dish of high-quality olive oil infused with balsamic vinegar for a simple yet elegant dip experience.
Roasted Vegetables: Enjoy with a medley of roasted seasonal vegetables; the earthiness enhances the rosemary notes of the bread.
Grilled Veggie Sandwich: Slice the focaccia and create a delightful sandwich filled with grilled veggies and hummus for a hearty meal option.
Cheese Platter: Include a selection of cheeses; creamy goat cheese and aged cheddar offer contrasting flavors that elevate the focaccia experience.
Sparkling Water: Pair with a refreshing sparkling water infused with lemon or herbs for a light and revitalizing drink option.
Dessert: Finish your meal with a sweet touch—a slice of lemon sorbet or a simple fruit salad brightens the palate after the savory bread.
Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the meal, highlighting the focaccia’s rosemary flavor perfectly.
Herbal Tea: For a lighter option, herbal tea offers a soothing contrast to the hearty focaccia, perfect for evening gatherings.

Rosemary Focaccia Bread Recipe FAQs

What type of yeast should I use for the focaccia?
Active dried yeast is ideal for this rosemary focaccia bread. Ensure it’s fresh by checking the expiration date; the yeast should foam and bubble when mixed with warm water, indicating it’s active and ready to work its magic in your dough!

How do I know when my dough has risen enough?
Great question! After the second rise, your focaccia dough should have doubled in size and appear visibly puffy. If you gently poke it with your finger, it should spring back slowly, leaving a small indention. That means your dough is ready for dimpling and toppings!

Can I freeze leftover focaccia? How?
Absolutely! To freeze your rosemary focaccia bread, first let it cool completely. Then, slice it into portions and place them in an airtight freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. This will keep the bread fresh for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw at room temperature. If you want it warm, pop the slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes!

How should I store my focaccia?
For optimal freshness, store the focaccia in a resealable bag or wrapped in parchment paper at room temperature for about 3-4 days. Avoid refrigerating it, as the cold air can dry it out quicker than keeping it on a countertop.

What if my dough is too sticky to handle?
No worries! If you find your dough is too sticky, simply oil your hands lightly before shaping. This will help prevent the dough from sticking to your hands and make it easier to work with. A little olive oil makes a big difference!

Can I add other toppings to my focaccia?
Very much so! Feel free to get creative with toppings! Adding ingredients like caramelized onions, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives before baking can enhance the flavor and give your rosemary focaccia bread a personal twist. The more, the merrier—experiment to find your favorite combinations!