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Crispy Focaccia Bread Recipe Easy Homemade Rosemary and Sea Salt

crispy focaccia bread recipe - featured image

A crispy focaccia bread with fresh rosemary and sea salt that balances a crunchy crust with a soft, airy crumb. Perfect for any occasion and easy to make with simple pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 ½ cups (420 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons (one packet) active dry yeast
  • 1 ½ cups (355 ml) warm water (around 100°F / 38°C)
  • ⅓ cup (80 ml) extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
  • 1 tablespoon sea salt flakes, plus more for topping
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water (1 ½ cups/355 ml) with sugar (1 teaspoon) and yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons). Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour (3 ½ cups/420 g) and sea salt (1 tablespoon). Make a well in the center and pour in the foamy yeast mixture along with ⅓ cup (80 ml) olive oil. Stir until a rough dough forms.
  3. First rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1 ½ hours until doubled in size.
  4. Prepare the pan: Generously grease your 9×13-inch baking sheet with olive oil, coating every corner.
  5. Shape the dough: Transfer the risen dough onto the baking sheet. Gently stretch and press the dough to fill the pan. Let it rest for 15 minutes.
  6. Create dimples: Press into the dough all over with your fingertips to create dimples about half an inch deep.
  7. Add toppings: Sprinkle chopped fresh rosemary evenly over the dough. Drizzle about 2 tablespoons olive oil on top, then scatter sea salt flakes to taste.
  8. Second rise: Let the dough rest uncovered for another 20-30 minutes until it puffs slightly.
  9. Bake: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the focaccia on the middle rack for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
  10. Cool and serve: Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Do not over-knead the dough; gentle folding is key. Use plenty of olive oil for a crispy crust. Press dimples deeply to trap oil and seasoning. Watch your oven temperature to avoid burning. Fresh rosemary is preferred for best flavor. If focaccia looks pale after baking, broil for 1-2 minutes carefully. Resting periods are crucial for airy crumb.

Nutrition

Keywords: focaccia, rosemary focaccia, crispy bread, homemade bread, sea salt bread, easy focaccia recipe, Italian bread, olive oil bread