Rosemary Focaccia

BY :

Natalie Taylor

Posted On :

January 23, 2026

If you’re searching for a delightful bread that is as easy to make as it is delicious, look no further than Rosemary Focaccia. This Italian flatbread is a staple in many households, and for good reason! Infused with the aromatic flavor of fresh rosemary and drizzled with olive oil, this focaccia offers a perfect balance of crispiness and chewiness. Whether served as an appetizer, a side for your favorite soup, or enjoyed on its own, this Rosemary Focaccia will elevate any meal. In this article, we’ll dive into why you’ll love this recipe, the ingredients you’ll need, detailed cooking steps, and some handy tips to make your focaccia-making experience a breeze.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rosemary Focaccia is a culinary gem that you’ll want to add to your repertoire for several compelling reasons:

Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps and basic ingredients, even novice bakers will find this recipe approachable.
Customizable: While rosemary is a classic choice, you can easily modify the flavors by adding garlic, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or different herbs to suit your taste.
Versatile: This focaccia can be enjoyed in various ways – as a sandwich bread, a dipper for soups and sauces, or as a standalone snack.
Great for Sharing: The large, flat shape makes it perfect for slicing and sharing at gatherings, parties, or family dinners.
Fresh Aroma: The smell of rosemary wafting through your kitchen as it bakes will have everyone eagerly anticipating a slice.
Nutritional Benefits: With wholesome ingredients like olive oil and herbs, this bread provides some health benefits while still being indulgent.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

There are countless bread recipes out there, but Rosemary Focaccia stands out for its unique flavor profile and texture. This bread is not only delicious; it also represents the simplicity and comfort of homemade food. Here are a few more reasons to try this recipe:

Perfect Texture: The combination of a crispy crust and a soft, airy interior makes each bite a delight. It’s a texture that’s hard to achieve in store-bought bread.
Impressive Presentation: The dimples and drizzle of olive oil give this focaccia a rustic yet elegant appearance, making it a beautiful addition to any table.
Economical: Making focaccia at home is budget-friendly. You can create a delicious bread without spending a fortune on artisanal loaves.
Freezing Friendly: If you make a large batch, focaccia freezes beautifully. You can enjoy fresh bread anytime by simply reheating slices.

With such a versatile and beloved recipe, it’s hard to resist giving Rosemary Focaccia a try. Each step is straightforward, and the rewards are abundant!

Ingredients and Utensils Needed

To make this delectable Rosemary Focaccia, you will need the following ingredients:

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 3/4 cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
1/4 cup olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)

Recommended Utensils

Mixing Bowls: A large bowl for mixing the dough and a small bowl for activating the yeast.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate measurements of ingredients.
Wooden Spoon or Dough Scraper: For mixing and handling the dough.
Kitchen Towel: To cover the dough while it rises.
Baking Sheet or Parchment Paper: For baking the focaccia.
Instant Read Thermometer: Optional, but helpful for checking the water temperature.

With these ingredients and tools at your disposal, you’re ready to embark on your focaccia-making adventure!

Detailed Recipe Steps

Now that you have your ingredients and utensils prepared, let’s dive into the detailed steps to create the perfect Rosemary Focaccia:

Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine 1 3/4 cups warm water with 1 teaspoon sugar and 1 packet of active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial as it shows that the yeast is alive and ready to help your dough rise.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups all-purpose flour and 2 teaspoons salt. Mixing the salt with the flour first prevents it from directly contacting the yeast, which could inhibit its growth.
Mix Dough: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. Pour in the activated yeast mixture along with 1/4 cup of olive oil. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until a shaggy dough forms. At this point, it’s okay if the dough is a bit sticky.
Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. To knead, fold the dough over itself and push it down with the heel of your hand, then rotate and repeat.
First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This process is essential for developing the dough’s flavor and structure.
Preheat the Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven will help create the perfect crust.
Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air bubbles. Transfer the dough to a greased baking sheet or a parchment-lined baking pan. Stretch and shape the dough into a rectangle or circle, about 1/2 inch thick. Don’t worry if it doesn’t look perfect; rustic is the goal!
Create Dimples: Use your fingers to make dimples all over the surface of the dough. This not only adds visual appeal but also helps the focaccia to hold onto the olive oil and toppings.
Add Toppings: Drizzle olive oil generously over the top of the dough. Sprinkle with chopped rosemary and coarse sea salt to enhance the flavor.
Second Rise: Allow the dough to rise again for about 20-30 minutes. This final rise ensures a light and airy focaccia.
Bake the Focaccia: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-baking.
Cool and Serve: Remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. It’s best enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Slice it into squares or wedges and enjoy!

**Tip:** If you want a more intense flavor, consider infusing the olive oil with garlic or additional herbs before drizzling it over the focaccia.

Tips and Variations

While this Rosemary Focaccia recipe is fantastic as is, here are some variations and tips to help you customize your bread to your liking:

Alternative Ingredients

Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as thyme, oregano, or basil. You can even mix a few for a herb blend.
Cheese: Adding grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese on top before baking can elevate the flavor and add a cheesy crust.
Olives or Sundried Tomatoes: Incorporating sliced olives or chopped sundried tomatoes can add a Mediterranean twist to your focaccia.
Vegan Option: This recipe is naturally vegan-friendly! Ensure that all ingredients are plant-based, and you’re good to go.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Over-Kneading: While kneading is essential, over-kneading can lead to tough bread. Stop when the dough is smooth and elastic.
Water Temperature: Ensure your water is warm but not too hot. Too high a temperature can kill the yeast. Aim for around 110°F (43°C).
Under-Rising: Make sure to give the dough enough time to rise. If it’s too cold, it may not rise properly. Find a warm spot in your kitchen.
Too Much Flour: Be careful not to add too much flour while kneading. It can lead to a dense focaccia. The dough should be slightly sticky.

Experimenting with these variations can lead to delightful discoveries, so don’t hesitate to make the recipe your own!

Nutritional Values and Benefits

Understanding the nutritional content of your food is essential, especially when baking at home. Here are the nutritional values for one serving of Rosemary Focaccia (based on 12 servings):

Calories: 200
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 0g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Sodium: 250mg

**Benefits of Key Ingredients:**

Olive Oil: It’s rich in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and can lower bad cholesterol levels.
Rosemary: This herb is not only flavorful but is also known for its antioxidant properties and potential cognitive benefits.
Whole Grains (if using whole wheat flour): Whole grains are high in dietary fiber, which can aid digestion and promote a feeling of fullness.

By making your Rosemary Focaccia at home, you can control the ingredients and enjoy a delicious, healthier option compared to store-bought bread.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to store leftover Rosemary Focaccia?

To store leftover Rosemary Focaccia, wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Can I add toppings to my Rosemary Focaccia?

Absolutely! You can add toppings such as olives, sundried tomatoes, cheese, or other herbs. Just make sure to add them before the second rise to incorporate flavors.

What is the difference between focaccia and pizza dough?

While both focaccia and pizza dough use similar ingredients, focaccia is typically thicker, more bread-like, and often has more oil, resulting in a softer texture.

Can I make Rosemary Focaccia without yeast?

Using yeast is essential for the traditional texture of focaccia. However, you could experiment with baking powder or soda for a quicker, denser flatbread, though the flavor and texture will differ.

What can I serve with Rosemary Focaccia?

Rosemary Focaccia pairs beautifully with soups, stews, and salads. You can also enjoy it with dips like hummus or olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a tasty appetizer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Rosemary Focaccia is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings the warmth of homemade bread into your kitchen. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and delightful flavor, it is sure to become a favorite in your household. We hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy each bite as much as we do. Don’t forget to share your results in the comments below, and feel free to share this article with your friends. Happy baking!

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