Easy Focaccia Bread Recipe

Easy Olive Oil & Herb Focaccia Recipe: Crispy and Flavorful Italian Flatbread

Craving that authentic Italian bakery experience at home? This olive oil and herb focaccia is the perfect easy bake! A dimpled, golden flatbread drizzled with extra virgin olive oil, sprinkled with fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, and baked to crispy perfection. With a no-knead option for beginners, it's ready in under 2 hours (including rise time) and uses simple pantry staples. Whether you're searching for an easy olive oil herb focaccia recipe, a homemade Italian herb bread, or a beginner-friendly focaccia with garlic and rosemary, this crowd-pleaser is ideal for appetizers, sandwiches, or dipping in balsamic.

Focaccia has roots in ancient Roman baking but gained popularity in Liguria, Italy, where olive oil is abundant—many recipes infuse the oil with herbs for extra aroma. Let's dimple and bake!

kingarthurbaking.com

Herb & Olive Oil Focaccia

What Is Olive Oil & Herb Focaccia?

Olive oil and herb focaccia is a rustic Italian flatbread known for its olive oil-soaked, herb-topped surface and airy, chewy interior. The dough is dimpled before baking to hold pools of olive oil, creating a crispy crust while keeping the inside soft. Unlike pizza, focaccia is thicker and often served as a side or snack, with herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano adding earthy flavor. This version emphasizes extra virgin olive oil for richness and fresh or dried herbs for simplicity. It's naturally vegan (no eggs or dairy in the base), gluten-free adaptable with flour swaps, and a staple in Mediterranean cuisine. Think of it as the ultimate easy bread for beginners—minimal kneading, maximum flavor.

Ingredients for Olive Oil & Herb Focaccia

This recipe serves 8-10 as an appetizer and requires just 7-8 basic ingredients. Many versions use a high-hydration dough for that signature texture.

• 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour (or bread flour for chewier results)
• 1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water
• 2 tsp instant yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• 2-3 tbsp fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or oregano, chopped; or 1-2 tsp dried)
• Optional: 2 garlic cloves, minced; flaky sea salt for topping; olives or cherry tomatoes for add-ins

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Olive Oil & Herb Focaccia

This no-knead method yields a foolproof focaccia. Prep time: 10 minutes | Rise time: 1 hour | Bake time: 20-25 minutes.

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, whisk warm water, yeast, and a pinch of salt. Let sit 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix the Dough: Add flour and 2 tbsp olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms—no kneading needed! Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 45-60 minutes until doubled and bubbly.
3. Prepare the Pan: Drizzle 1-2 tbsp olive oil into a 9x13-inch baking pan or sheet. Transfer the dough, stretching gently to fit. Dimple the surface with your fingers to create wells.
4. Add Toppings: Drizzle with remaining olive oil, sprinkle herbs, garlic (if using), and flaky salt. Let rest 15-20 minutes while preheating oven to 425°F (220°C).
5. Bake and Serve: Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy. Cool slightly, then slice. For infused oil, mix herbs and garlic in olive oil beforehand.

taste.com.au

Olive & rosemary focaccia recipe

Tips for the Perfect Olive Oil & Herb Focaccia

• Olive Oil Quality: Use extra virgin for the best flavor—it's the star ingredient.
• Dough Hydration: Keep it sticky for airiness; if too dry, add a splash of water.
• Herb Selection: Fresh rosemary and thyme are classic; experiment with basil or sage.
• Make-Ahead: Prep dough up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate for deeper flavor.
• Crispy Crust: Bake on a hot stone or use steam by adding ice to a pan in the oven.
• Common Mistakes: Don't overbake—aim for golden, not dark, to avoid toughness.

Variations on Olive Oil & Herb Focaccia

Get creative with this base:

• Garlic Rosemary: Infuse oil with minced garlic and rosemary for a bold twist.
• Olive-Topped: Press pitted olives into the dough before baking.
• Vegan Option: Already vegan—use plant-based milk if needed.
• Tomato Herb: Add sliced cherry tomatoes and basil for a Caprese vibe.
• Cheese Upgrade: Sprinkle Parmesan or feta on top midway through baking.
• Garden Fresh: Decorate with edible flowers or more herbs for a stunning presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I store olive oil & herb focaccia?

Wrap in foil and keep at room temp for 1-2 days; refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze slices for a month. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.

Is focaccia bread vegan?

Yes, this recipe is vegan as is— no eggs or dairy in the dough.

Can I make no-knead focaccia?

Absolutely! The method above is mostly no-knead; for fully hands-off, let rise overnight.

What's the difference between focaccia and pizza?

Focaccia is thicker, oilier, and herb-focused, while pizza has sauce and toppings— but focaccia can be a base for pizza!

rouxbe.com

Herb and Garlic Focaccia Bread

Why You'll Love This Olive Oil & Herb Focaccia Recipe

This easy olive oil and herb focaccia is crispy, aromatic, and effortlessly impressive—a taste of Italy in your kitchen. With its simple prep and customizable toppings, it's perfect for beginners or entertaining. Bake it fresh and enjoy the irresistible aroma and flavor.

Share your focaccia feats in the comments! Buon appetito!