The smell of fresh bread baking in the oven is one of my favorite smells in the world. It’s that cozy, golden aroma that makes any house feel more home-y. And, if there’s one bread out there that blends a simple baking process and infinite creative combinations, it’s focaccia.
This Italian flatbread is known for its crispy exterior, pillowy interior, and generous drizzle of olive oil that makes every bite feel indulgent. What I love most about focaccia, though, is how versatile it is. Whether you prefer herbs and salt, roasted veggies, or even fruit and honey, there’s a version out there that fits every mood and meal.
But before we dive into all the delicious variations, let’s start with the basics. Making focaccia from scratch is much easier than you might think.
How to Make Basic Focaccia
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp salt
- 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) instant yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm water
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
- Coarse sea salt for topping
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it’s a bit foamy.
- Add flour and salt, then pour in olive oil. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead for about 5–7 minutes on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic.
- Coat a clean bowl with olive oil, place the dough inside, and cover it with a damp towel. Let it rise for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Gently press the dough into a well-oiled baking pan (around 9×13 inches). Use your fingers to dimple the top.
- Let it rest another 20–30 minutes while you preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Drizzle generously with olive oil, sprinkle with coarse salt, and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
That’s your base: soft, golden, and fragrant. Now that you have the base down, you can graduate to new, delicious heights!
1. Classic Rosemary and Sea Salt Focaccia
Sometimes, the simplest things really are the best. Rosemary and sea salt focaccia is the quintessential version of this bread: flavorful and perfect for pairing with soups, pasta, or a charcuterie board.
To make this version, make the base dough. Before baking, add fresh rosemary leaves (or entire sprigs, if you want a stronger rosemary flavor) and sprinkle some flaky sea salt over the dough. Press lightly so they stick, then drizzle with olive oil.
This type of focaccia pairs amazingly with tomato soup, pasta dishes, or sliced open for sandwiches.
2. Garlic and Herb Focaccia
Garlic lovers, this one’s for you. A mix of minced garlic, thyme, oregano, and basil takes focaccia from good to completely irresistible.
To make this, mix your herbs and garlic into olive oil, then drizzle this mixture over your dough before baking. You can also brush on more halfway through the baking process for an extra burst of flavor.
Pair this with some grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or as a side to spaghetti to elevate your meal!
3. Tomato and Basil Focaccia
Think of this one as summer on a baking sheet. Juicy cherry tomatoes burst as they bake, creating pockets of sweetness that balance beautifully with fresh basil.
This version requires you to halve some cherry tomatoes and press them gently into the dough. Then, sprinkle with chopped basil and sea salt and drizzle generously with olive oil.
This focaccia pairs best with burrata cheese, pesto pasta, or simple salads.
4. Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Focaccia
Rich, tangy, and slightly sweet, this one feels like something from a fancy café but is surprisingly easy to make.
First, you sauté thinly sliced onions in butter until golden and sweet. Spread them across your dough, add crumbles of goat cheese, and bake as usual.
This recipe is a perfect companion for roasted meats, fresh arugula salad, or as an appetizer with wine.
5. Jalapeño Cheddar Focaccia
For those who like a little kick, this focaccia brings the heat. The melted cheese forms crisp edges while the jalapeños add just enough spice to wake up your taste buds.
To make this, top the dough with thinly sliced jalapeños and shredded cheddar before baking. Sprinkle extra cheese halfway through for a gooey finish.
Use it as a side for chili, tacos, or barbecue.
6. Honey Lavender Focaccia
Yes, sweet focaccia is a thing, and it’s divine. The honey and lavender work together to create a subtly floral, lightly sweet bread that’s perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack! It’s my personal favorite, as I’m a huge fan of sweet and floral flavor profiles. I usually drink this with a nice lavender-flavored latte, or an unsweetened chamomile tea to allow the sweetness to shine.
To make this, drizzle honey over your dough, sprinkle with dried culinary lavender, and brush lightly with olive oil. After baking, drizzle a little extra honey for shine.
This pairs well with tea, yogurt, or soft cheeses like brie or chèvre.
7. Lemon and Thyme Focaccia
This bright, citrusy focaccia feels like sunshine in bread form. The lemon zest adds a burst of freshness that balances beautifully with earthy thyme.
For this recipe, sprinkle some lemon zest and fresh thyme over the dough before baking. Optional: brush with a mix of olive oil and a touch of lemon juice right after it comes out of the oven.
This focaccia pairs best with grilled fish, roasted chicken, or spring salads.
8. Olive and Sun-Dried Tomato Focaccia
Mediterranean flavors meet the comforting texture of focaccia in this savory favorite. The briny olives and tangy sun-dried tomatoes give every bite a rich depth of flavor.
To make this, press sliced olives and chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the dough before baking. Add a sprinkle of oregano for an extra layer of flavor.
Pair this with a Greek salad, pasta, or a mezze platter for a savory flavor boost.
9. Cinnamon Sugar Focaccia
A dessert-worthy focaccia that turns out warm, golden, and sweet, kind of like a cross between bread and a cinnamon roll.
For this recipe, brush the dough with melted butter and sprinkle generously with cinnamon sugar before baking. After baking, drizzle with a light icing if desired.
This pairs well with drinks like coffee or tea, or can be enjoyed as a simple, sweet snack.
10. Roasted Garlic and Parmesan Focaccia
This one’s a showstopper. Roasted garlic melts into the dough, and parmesan crisps up beautifully on top. It’s comforting, savory, and hard to stop eating.
To make this, roast a whole bulb of garlic until soft, then press the cloves into the dough. Top with grated parmesan and bake until golden.
Eat this with creamy soups, pasta alfredo, or roasted vegetables.
Tips for Perfect Focaccia Every Time
- Use good olive oil. It’s the star of the show. Don’t be shy with it, since that’s what gives focaccia its signature crust.
- Don’t skip the dimples. They hold the oil and toppings in place while baking.
- Be patient with the rise. The longer the dough ferments, the better the flavor. If you can, refrigerate overnight for extra depth.
Experiment freely. Once you master the basic dough, try your own flavor combinations! Think pear and blue cheese, roasted red pepper and feta, or apple and cinnamon.
Disclaimer: The recipes and nutritional content shared on this blog are based on personal experience and general wellness principles. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health condition. Please consult with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian before making any significant dietary changes, especially if you have allergies or health conditions.