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Easy Fast Focaccia Bread Recipe

Crusty, Fluffy & Foolproof: Easy Fast Focaccia Bread Recipe for Beginners

Crusty, Fluffy & Foolproof: Easy Fast Focaccia Bread Recipe for Beginners

There’s something so magical about bread baking. The warm aroma that fills the kitchen, the soft, pillowy interior, and the golden crispy crust that cracks when you tear into it. Today, I’m sharing my favorite easy fast focaccia bread recipe—one that is perfect for beginners, quick to make, and absolutely foolproof. If you’ve ever been intimidated by bread making, this is your entry point into the world of homemade Italian baking.

When I first attempted focaccia, I was nervous. Dough always seemed tricky, and I imagined I’d need hours of kneading and waiting. But once I tried this same day focaccia, I realized just how simple and forgiving it is. Since then, it’s become my go-to when I want fresh bread on the table, whether for dinner or even as a cozy Italian breakfast paired with coffee and olive oil.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Fast Focaccia Bread Recipe

  • Quick & beginner-friendly — no advanced techniques, no knead required.
  • Same day baking — enjoy warm, fresh bread without overnight waiting.
  • Simple dough — pantry staples only.
  • Versatile — perfect with soups, salads, or as sandwich bread.
  • Small batch friendly — easy to halve for fewer servings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe makes a 9x13-inch pan of focaccia, about 12 servings. You can cut it down for a small batch if desired.

  • 4 cups (480g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp or 7g) instant yeast
  • 1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
  • 1 tsp sugar (to help yeast activate)
  • Optional toppings: fresh rosemary, cherry tomatoes, flaky sea salt, garlic slices

How to Make Easy Fast Focaccia Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Stir in flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix with a spoon until a shaggy dough forms. Don’t worry—it doesn’t have to look perfect.

Step 2: Let It Rise

Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Allow the dough to rise in a warm spot for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. It should double in size. If your kitchen is cool, place it near a warm oven or wrap the bowl in a towel.

Step 3: Shape & Flavor

Generously drizzle olive oil into your 9x13-inch baking pan. Transfer the dough into the pan and gently stretch it out with your fingertips until it reaches the corners. Press your fingers into the dough to create the signature focaccia dimples. Drizzle more olive oil on top and sprinkle with rosemary, garlic, or toppings of your choice.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the focaccia for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown with a crispy crust. Remove from oven, drizzle with a touch more olive oil, and sprinkle with flaky salt. Let it cool slightly before cutting into squares.

My Personal Experience

When I baked this focaccia for the first time, I had just returned from a trip to Italy. I remembered waking up to freshly baked bread served as Italian breakfast with cappuccino. I wanted to recreate that memory at home without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe did exactly that—it’s quick, same day, and tastes like a bakery loaf. My family now requests it weekly, and I love how versatile it is for both savory meals and sweet pairings with honey and ricotta.

Helpful Tools for Perfect Homemade Focaccia

Over time, I’ve realized that a few tools make this process even easier. If you’re starting your bread-baking journey, here are some Amazon finds I personally recommend:

1. USA Pan Bakeware Rectangular Baking Pan

This heavy-duty nonstick pan is perfect for focaccia. It distributes heat evenly and ensures that golden crispy crust you’re looking for. Cleanup is a breeze, and it lasts for years.

👉 Get it on Amazon and make every batch bakery-quality.

2. OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl Set

Mixing dough can get messy, but these bowls make the process simple. They’re durable, non-slip, and nest for easy storage. I use them for everything from bread dough to cake batter.

👉 Check it out on Amazon for a must-have in any kitchen.

3. Maldon Sea Salt Flakes

The finishing touch on focaccia is the topping. Maldon sea salt gives a light, crunchy texture that elevates homemade bread instantly. It’s a small detail, but it makes a huge difference in flavor.

👉 Add it to your pantry from Amazon and taste the upgrade.

Tips & Variations

  • For extra crispy crust: Add a bit of olive oil under the dough before baking.
  • Small batch focaccia: Halve the recipe and bake in an 8x8-inch pan.
  • Sourdough version: Replace yeast with 1 cup of active sourdough starter and increase rise time overnight.
  • Quick pizza base: Top the focaccia with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for an instant pizza.
  • Italian breakfast idea: Pair focaccia with prosciutto, ricotta, or simply dip it in olive oil.

FAQs

Can I make focaccia the same day?

Yes! This recipe is designed for same day baking. From mixing to eating, you can enjoy it in under 2 hours.

Can I freeze focaccia dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough before baking. When ready, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

What if my focaccia doesn’t rise?

Check that your yeast is fresh and that your water isn’t too hot (it should be warm, not boiling). Also, give it enough time in a warm spot.

Is focaccia healthier than regular bread?

Focaccia uses olive oil, which is a healthy fat, and can be made with whole wheat flour if desired. It’s a wholesome, flavorful alternative to store-bought bread.

Serving Ideas

This bread is versatile and works for every meal of the day:

  • Serve as sandwich bread with grilled vegetables or meats.
  • Dip warm slices into olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
  • Pair with hearty soups and salads.
  • Enjoy as a sweet Italian breakfast with ricotta and honey.

Conclusion

This easy fast focaccia bread recipe proves that homemade bread doesn’t have to be complicated. With its fluffy interior, golden crispy crust, and versatility, it’s a recipe I return to again and again. Whether you’re baking a small batch for breakfast or a full pan for a family dinner, you’ll love the satisfaction of pulling a loaf of focaccia from your oven. Try it today and see how simple it is to bring the joy of Italian baking into your kitchen!

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