Today, we’re making the most amazing and incredibly soft big bubble focaccia. This Italian delight requires only five simple ingredients and combines the best elements of bread and pizza. You’ll be blown away by how delicious and easy it is to make!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 Minutes
- Resting Time: 3 Hours
- Cook Time: 20-22 Minutes
- Total Time: 3 Hours 40 Minutes
Ingredients
- 4 cups (500g) high-protein bread flour (at least 12% protein)
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) warm water
- 2 teaspoons salt
- ¼ cup (60ml) olive oil (plus more for greasing and topping)
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- Optional toppings: Olives, rosemary, sea salt
Directions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, salt, olive oil, and yeast. Whisk thoroughly until the salt is dissolved.
- Gradually add the bread flour and mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Stretch and Fold Technique:
- Cover the bowl and let the dough rest for 30 minutes.
- Wet your hands to prevent sticking and perform the first series of stretch and folds. Lift one side of the dough, stretch it, and fold it over. Rotate the bowl and repeat for a total of 4 folds.
- Repeat the stretch and fold process every 30 minutes for a total of 4 times.
- Rest and Rise:
- After the final fold, cover the dough and let it rest for another 30 minutes.
- You can either refrigerate the dough overnight or let it rise at room temperature for another hour.
- Prepare the Baking Pan:
- Generously grease a baking pan with about 3 tablespoons of olive oil. If your pan is not non-stick, add parchment paper and oil it as well.
- Gently transfer the dough to the prepared pan, being careful not to deflate the bubbles. Let it rise again for about an hour.
- Shape and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Drizzle the dough with more olive oil and use your fingers to make dimples all over the surface. Add your desired toppings.
- Bake in a preheated oven for 20-22 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the focaccia is cooked through.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the focaccia from the oven and carefully take it out of the pan. Let it cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy with a side of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.
- Use as a base for sandwiches with fresh mozzarella, prosciutto, and arugula.
- Serve alongside soups and salads for a complete meal.
- Top with fresh herbs and roasted vegetables for added flavor.
Cooking Tips
- Use high-protein bread flour to achieve the best texture and structure.
- Wet your hands while handling the dough to prevent sticking.
- Let the dough rise properly to develop those characteristic bubbles.
- Be generous with olive oil for the best flavor and texture.
Nutritional Benefits
- Bread Flour: Provides a good source of protein and carbohydrates.
- Olive Oil: Contains healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Yeast: Adds B-vitamins and helps with dough fermentation.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Contains no meat products.
- Vegan Adaptation: This recipe is naturally vegan.
- Dairy-Free: Contains no dairy products.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, based on 12 servings)
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make with simple ingredients.
- Soft, airy texture with delicious olive oil flavor.
- Perfect for sandwiches, sides, or snacking.
- Impressively beautiful with big bubbles and golden crust.
Conclusion
This incredibly soft big bubble focaccia is a delightful addition to any meal. With its airy texture and rich olive oil flavor, it’s perfect for sandwiches, dipping, or enjoying on its own. Simple to make and highly satisfying, this focaccia will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy this wonderful recipe, and don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more delicious recipes. Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour? Yes, but bread flour will give better structure and larger bubbles.
- Do I need to refrigerate the dough overnight? No, but it enhances the flavor and makes the dough easier to handle.
- Can I add other toppings? Yes, feel free to add your favorite toppings like herbs, vegetables, or cheese.
- How do I know when the focaccia is done? It should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped.
- Can I make this gluten-free? Yes, use a gluten-free bread flour blend.
- Why is my dough too sticky to handle? High hydration doughs are sticky; use wet hands for easier handling.
- Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast? Yes, you can use either type of yeast.
- How do I prevent the focaccia from sticking to the pan? Generously grease the pan with olive oil and use parchment paper if necessary.
- Can I use flavored olive oil? Yes, flavored oils like garlic or rosemary add extra taste.
- How long should I let the dough rise? Let it rise until it doubles in size, which can vary depending on room temperature.
Enjoy baking and savoring this delicious focaccia, and thank you for joining me in the kitchen today!