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Introduction
Focaccia is a soft and fluffy bread that comes from Italy and is loved by people all over the world. This artisan rosemary focaccia recipe is about making bakery style bread at home using very simple ingredients and easy steps. The bread has a golden crust, a light and airy inside, and a rich smell of olive oil and fresh rosemary. Even if you are new to baking, you can make this bread in your own kitchen without fear. You do not need special tools or expert skills. You only need time, patience, and love for good food.
People love artisan rosemary focaccia because it tastes amazing and feels comforting. The top is slightly crisp, while the inside stays soft and chewy. The flavor of olive oil mixed with rosemary and a little salt makes every bite special. It can be eaten alone, with soup, with salad, or used as sandwich bread. Many people enjoy it as a snack or serve it to guests. When it comes out of the oven, the smell fills the whole house and makes everyone feel hungry and happy. It feels like something from a small village bakery but made by your own hands.
You can make this bread when you want something warm and homemade. It is perfect for weekends, family dinners, or small parties. It is also great when you want to relax and enjoy the process of baking. Kneading the dough and watching it rise can feel very calming. From a food point of view, focaccia gives energy and can be part of a balanced meal when eaten with healthy sides. From an emotional point of view, baking bread often brings comfort and joy. Sharing fresh focaccia with others is a simple way to show care and kindness.
Ingredients You Will Need
For this artisan rosemary focaccia recipe, gather these ingredients:
4 cups all purpose flour
2 and one half teaspoons instant yeast
2 teaspoons sugar
2 teaspoons salt
1 and three fourth cups warm water
4 tablespoons olive oil for the dough
3 tablespoons olive oil for topping
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves finely chopped
1 teaspoon coarse salt for topping
Optional garlic powder half teaspoon
Optional black pepper quarter teaspoon
Step by Step Method
Step 1
Take a large mixing bowl. Add warm water, sugar, and yeast. Mix gently with a spoon. Let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes. You will see bubbles on top. This means the yeast is active and ready.
Step 2
Add flour, salt, and 4 tablespoons olive oil into the same bowl. Mix everything with a spoon or your hand until a sticky dough forms. Do not worry if it feels wet. Focaccia dough is softer than regular bread dough.
Step 3
Lightly dust your kitchen counter with flour. Put the dough on the counter. Knead the dough using your hands for about 8 to 10 minutes. Push the dough forward with your palm, then fold it back. Turn and repeat. The dough should become smooth and elastic.
Step 4
Grease a clean bowl with a little olive oil. Place the dough inside. Rub a little oil on top of the dough so it does not dry. Cover the bowl with a cloth or plastic wrap. Keep it in a warm place for about 1 to 2 hours. The dough should grow to about double in size.
Step 5
After the dough has risen, prepare a baking pan. Use a rectangular pan and brush it with olive oil. Place the dough into the pan. Gently press and stretch it with your fingers so it fills the pan. If it shrinks back, let it rest for 10 minutes and try again.
Step 6
Cover the pan loosely with a cloth and let the dough rise again for about 30 to 45 minutes. This second rise makes the bread more soft and airy.
Step 7
Heat your oven to 425 degrees F or 220 degrees C while the dough is rising. This makes sure the oven is fully hot when you are ready to bake.
Step 8
After the second rise, pour 3 tablespoons olive oil over the top of the dough. Use your fingers to press deep dimples all over the surface. These little holes will hold the oil and flavor.
Step 9
Sprinkle chopped rosemary evenly on top. Add coarse salt and optional garlic powder and black pepper if you like more flavor.
Step 10
Place the pan in the hot oven. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. The top should turn golden brown and slightly crisp.
Step 11
Remove from the oven and let it cool for at least 10 minutes before cutting. Brush a little more olive oil on top if you want extra shine and taste.
Step 12
Cut into squares and serve warm.
Why This Recipe Is Special
This artisan rosemary focaccia recipe is special because it gives you bakery quality bread at home with simple steps. You do not need machines or special training. The slow rising dough builds deep flavor and soft texture. Olive oil keeps the bread moist and rich.
Rosemary is not only tasty but also contains natural plant compounds that many people believe are helpful for the body. Olive oil is known as a heart friendly fat when used in the right amount. When you make bread at home, you also control the ingredients. There are no hidden chemicals or extra preservatives.
The taste is another reason this bread stands out. The crust is light and crisp while the inside is airy and chewy. The smell of rosemary and olive oil together creates a strong and pleasant aroma. Each bite feels warm and satisfying. It works well with both simple meals and fancy dinners.
Extra Tips for Better Taste
Use fresh rosemary if possible. Fresh leaves give a stronger and more natural flavor than dried ones.
Let the dough rise slowly in a slightly cool room if you have time. A slower rise often gives better flavor and texture.
Add thin slices of garlic on top before baking if you love garlic bread style taste.
You can also add sliced olives or cherry tomatoes on top for a richer version. Press them gently into the dough before baking.
Brush olive oil on the bread right after baking. This keeps the crust soft and adds shine.
If you want a more airy texture, do not add too much extra flour while kneading. Sticky dough makes softer focaccia.
Serve it warm. Warm focaccia always tastes better than cold.
Final Thoughts
Making artisan rosemary focaccia at home is easier than many people think. With basic ingredients and simple steps, you can create a beautiful and tasty bread that feels special. The process is relaxing and the result is rewarding. This bread can turn a normal meal into something memorable. Once you try it, you will likely want to make it again and again. Share it with family and friends and enjoy the smiles it brings to the table.
Nutrition Details
Approximate values for the whole recipe and per serving. Recipe makes about 12 servings.
Nutrition for full recipe
Calories about 2200
Carbohydrates about 360 grams
Protein about 60 grams
Fat about 70 grams
Fiber about 14 grams
Nutrition per serving
Calories about 185
Carbohydrates about 30 grams
Protein about 5 grams
Fat about 6 grams
Fiber about 1 to 2 grams
Values are estimates and change based on ingredient brands and portion size.