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Olive and Herb Focaccia

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Olive and Herb Focaccia is a soft, chewy Italian bread topped with olive oil, briny olives, and fragrant herbs. Golden on the outside and fluffy on the inside, it’s perfect for soups, sandwiches, or simply enjoying warm from the oven.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 slices
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1 1/4 cups warm water
  • 2 1/4 tsp dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 tbsp honey (or sugar for vegan)
  • 3 1/2 cups plain flour
  • 1/4 cup olive oil (plus extra for greasing and drizzling)
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp flakey sea salt (for topping)
  • 2 tbsp fresh herbs (rosemary, parsley, or oregano) or 1 tbsp dried herbs
  • 1/2 cup olives, sliced or chopped

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and honey. Stir and let sit 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add flour, olive oil, and salt. Mix with dough hook on low, then increase to medium until dough comes together.
  3. Knead 5 minutes in mixer, then transfer to a floured surface and knead 5 minutes by hand until smooth.
  4. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  5. Punch dough down, knead briefly, then roll into a rectangle.
  6. Oil a 9×13-inch tray, lay dough inside, and press with fingers to create dimples. Cover and let rise 45–60 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 180°C (356°F).
  8. Drizzle risen dough with olive oil, sprinkle flakey salt, herbs, and olives on top.
  9. Bake 20 minutes, until golden and puffed. Slice and serve warm.

Notes

  • Swap olives with sun-dried tomatoes or pesto for variety.
  • Use different herbs like rosemary, parsley, or oregano for flavor twists.
  • For a thicker focaccia, bake in a round springform pan.
  • Generous olive oil drizzle ensures a crisp, golden crust.
  • Make vegan by replacing honey with sugar.

Nutrition