Name: Rosemary Focaccia Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1½ cups warm water (110°F); 2 tsp active dry yeast; ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil plus extra for drizzling; 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped; 2 tsp sea salt

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Recipe Overview

Total Time: 40 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Method: Baked
Prep: Make-Ahead Friendly

Rosemary focaccia bread transforms simple ingredients into an aromatic masterpiece. This Italian flatbread combines fresh rosemary with olive oil to create a golden, dimpled surface. The recipe costs under $3 and feeds four people generously.

Perfect for family gatherings and dinner parties, this bread offers impressive health benefits. Rosemary contains antioxidants that support brain function. Olive oil provides heart-healthy fats, while the bread delivers satisfying carbohydrates.

◆✨ What Makes This Special

Budgetfriendly recipe using pantry staples with aromatic fresh herbs
Impressive presentation perfect for entertaining guests and special occasions
Makeahead friendly dough that develops incredible flavor overnight

Why This Rosemary Focaccia Bread Recipe Works

This recipe creates perfect texture through proper hydration. The high water content produces an open crumb structure. Two rises develop complex flavors while maintaining simplicity.

Fresh rosemary releases oils during baking. The dimpling technique holds olive oil pools. This combination creates the signature focaccia appearance and taste.

The temperature control ensures proper yeast activation. Room temperature rises prevent over-proofing. These details guarantee consistent results every time.

What You’ll Need for Perfect Rosemary Focaccia Bread

Ingredients

Category	Ingredients	Quantity & Notes
Base	All-purpose flour, warm water	4 cups flour, 1½ cups water (110°F)
Leavening	Active dry yeast	2 tsp, ensure freshness
Fat & Flavor	Extra virgin olive oil	¼ cup plus extra for drizzling
Aromatics	Fresh rosemary, sea salt	2 tbsp chopped rosemary, 2 tsp salt

Tools

Category	Tools	Purpose
Mixing	Large bowl, small bowl, whisk	Dough preparation and yeast activation
Baking	Baking sheet, parchment paper	Shaping and baking the focaccia
Rising	Damp cloth, oiled bowl	Proper dough fermentation

Quality ingredients make a difference. Use fresh rosemary for maximum flavor. Extra virgin olive oil provides the best taste. Sea salt enhances all flavors naturally.

Check your yeast expiration date. Old yeast won’t activate properly. Warm water should feel comfortable on your wrist. Too hot kills yeast, too cool slows activation.

How to Make Rosemary Focaccia Bread

Phase	Steps	Time & Key Points
Prep	Activate yeast in warm water until frothy	5 minutes, ensures active yeast
Mix	Combine flour, salt, yeast mixture, oil; knead until smooth	10 minutes kneading develops gluten
Rise	First rise in oiled bowl until doubled; shape and dimple	1 hour first rise, 30 minutes second
Bake	Top with rosemary and oil; bake until golden	25 minutes at 425°F

The kneading develops gluten structure. Work the dough until smooth and elastic. This creates the perfect chewy texture.

Dimpling is crucial for authentic focaccia. Press fingers deep into the dough. These wells hold olive oil and seasonings during baking.

✓⚡ Cook Smarter

Use your fingertips to create deep dimples that hold olive oil pools
Let dough come to room temperature before shaping for easier handling
Brush with olive oil twice – before and after adding rosemary

Serving and Storage Tips for Rosemary Focaccia Bread

Serving Tips

Serve warm for the best experience. Cut into squares or rectangles. Pair with Ultimate Chicken Casserole for complete meals.

This bread complements Italian dishes perfectly. Try it alongside Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Ultimate Delight. The herbs enhance seafood flavors beautifully.

Store covered at room temperature for two days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for five minutes. Freeze wrapped portions for up to three months.

For entertaining, cut into small squares as appetizers. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar for extra flavor. Guests always request the recipe.

Mistakes to Avoid while making Rosemary Focaccia Bread

Don’t skip the yeast proofing step. Inactive yeast ruins the entire batch. Always test in warm water first. Frothy bubbles confirm active yeast.

Avoid over-flouring during kneading. This creates dense, heavy bread. Use minimal flour on your work surface. Sticky dough is normal for focaccia.

Never rush the rising times. Proper fermentation develops flavor. Cold environments slow rising significantly. Find a warm, draft-free spot for best results.

! 🧭 Need to Know

Water temperature matters – too hot kills yeast, too cold prevents activation
Dimpling must be deep enough to create oil pools for authentic texture
Fresh rosemary releases more oils than dried during baking process

Suggestions for Rosemary Focaccia Bread

Add sliced tomatoes and olives for Mediterranean flair. Cherry tomatoes work beautifully on top. Press them gently into the dough before baking.

Try different herb combinations. Thyme and oregano complement rosemary well. Caramelized onions add sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.

Make it a meal with toppings. Add cheese and vegetables after baking. This creates a quick, satisfying lunch or dinner option.

For inspiration, check out this classic focaccia recipe or explore olive variations for more ideas.

FAQs:

Can I make rosemary focaccia bread without fresh rosemary?

Yes, use 1 tablespoon dried rosemary instead. Fresh herbs provide better flavor and aroma.

How long does homemade rosemary focaccia bread stay fresh?

Store covered at room temperature for 2 days. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate after first rise for up to 24 hours. Bring to room temperature before shaping.

What's the best way to reheat focaccia bread?

Warm in 350°F oven for 5 minutes. This restores the crispy exterior texture.

Why didn't my focaccia bread rise properly?

Check yeast expiration date and water temperature. Old yeast or hot water prevents proper rising.

Conclusion

Rosemary focaccia bread brings Italian bakery quality to your kitchen. This simple recipe creates impressive results with basic ingredients. The aromatic herbs and olive oil combination never disappoints.

Perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike, this bread adapts to any occasion. From casual family dinners to elegant gatherings, it always impresses guests and satisfies appetites completely.