There’s something enchanting about the holidays that makes every bite of food feel special, especially when you can pull a warm loaf of Christmas Focaccia Bread out of the oven, dusted with your favorite toppings. I stumbled upon this delightful recipe during a festive gathering, where a friend’s kitchen was filled with the irresistible scent of freshly baked bread. Inspired, I decided to make it my own, adding colorful cherry tomatoes, fragrant rosemary, and a drizzle of olive oil.
This easy-to-follow focaccia is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying with your family. The chewy texture and the crispy crust balance beautifully with its soft, fluffy inside, allowing you to savor each bite. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, a side dish, or as the star of your holiday feast, this Christmas Focaccia Bread bursts with warmth, flavor, and the spirit of togetherness. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get baking!
Why will you love Christmas Focaccia Bread?
Irresistible aroma: Baking this bread fills your kitchen with the warm scent of yeast and olive oil, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for gatherings.
Customizable toppings: You can easily tailor the toppings to your family’s preferences, from vibrant cherry tomatoes to savory olives and fresh herbs.
Quick prep: With only 30 minutes of hands-on time, this recipe is efficient, letting you spend more time celebrating and less time in the kitchen.
Perfect for sharing: Serve it warm and watch your guests gather around; there’s something special about breaking bread together.
Festive showstopper: Its stunning appearance and delightful texture make this focaccia an impressive centerpiece for your holiday spread.
Enjoy more delightful creations by trying this easy focaccia bread recipe.
Christmas Focaccia Bread Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need for your festive bread!
- 4 cups all-purpose flour – for a soft and chewy texture
- 2 teaspoons salt – enhances flavor
- 1 teaspoon sugar – helps activate the yeast
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast – the magic behind that rise
- 1 1/2 cups warm water – ideal for activating the yeast
- 1/4 cup olive oil – for richness and flavor
- Assorted toppings (cherry tomatoes, rosemary, olives, etc.) – customize your Christmas Focaccia Bread with your favorites!
How to Make Christmas Focaccia Bread
Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of salt, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 packet of active dry yeast until evenly mixed.
Add liquids: Gradually pour in 1 1/2 cups of warm water and 1/4 cup of olive oil. Mix the ingredients together until a soft dough begins to form, embracing the delightful blend of flavors.
Knead the dough: On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough for about 10 minutes. You’re looking for a smooth and elastic texture that springs back when pressed—this is crucial for that airy interior!
Let it rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Preheat the oven: While waiting, preheat your oven to a toasty 425°F (220°C), filling your kitchen with anticipation!
Shape the dough: Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release any air. Spread it out evenly on a greased baking sheet to create the perfect focaccia base.
Create dimples and toppings: Use your fingers to create dimples all over the dough’s surface, then sprinkle on your assorted toppings, such as vibrant cherry tomatoes and aromatic rosemary, letting the colors shine.
Bake to perfection: Place your focaccia in the oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes or until it turns a beautiful golden brown. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Cool and serve: Once baked, allow to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm, taking time to enjoy with family and friends—every bite is a taste of joy!
Optional: Drizzle with additional olive oil before serving for an extra touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Christmas Focaccia Bread
Ensure Dough Temperature: Make sure your warm water is around 110°F (43°C) for perfect yeast activation, ensuring a beautifully risen bread.
Knead Well: Knead the dough for the full 10 minutes to develop gluten, which gives your Christmas Focaccia Bread that delightful chewy texture.
Don’t Rush the Rise: Let the dough rise until it doubles in size; this step is essential for achieving that airy and fluffy inside.
Use Fresh Toppings: Choose fresh toppings for the best flavor and presentation; vibrant, seasonal produce can elevate your focaccia into a festive centerpiece.
Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure it’s at 425°F (220°C); a properly heated oven is crucial for that golden, crispy crust.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Focaccia Bread
Room Temperature: Allow the focaccia to cool completely, then store at room temperature in a sealed plastic bag or airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps it soft and fresh.
Fridge: If you need to keep it longer, store in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before enjoying!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices or whole focaccia wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C).
Reheating: To refresh your Christmas Focaccia Bread, wrap it in foil and heat it in a preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, ensuring it regains its lovely texture and warmth.
Christmas Focaccia Bread Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by adjusting this delightful recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs!
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to add a teaspoon of xanthan gum for texture!
Herb-Infused: Incorporate finely chopped fresh herbs like basil or thyme into the dough for extra flavor. This twist adds a fragrant aroma that’s simply irresistible.
Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or parmesan on top before baking for a gooey, cheesy crust. The melty goodness is a dream come true for cheese lovers!
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the toppings for a spicy crunch. It’s a delightful surprise that will make your visitors’ taste buds tingle.
Sweet Twist: Swap savory toppings for caramelized onions and figs, drizzling with balsamic glaze. This sweet and savory combination creates an unforgettable flavor experience.
Nutty Crunch: Toss in chopped walnuts or pine nuts as a topping before baking. Their crunch provides a lovely contrast to the soft bread, enhancing not just flavor, but texture too.
Vegan Version: Replace the honey with maple syrup and use olive oil, keeping it vegan-friendly. The result is just as tasty, rich, and satisfying!
Roasted Veggies: Top with seasonal roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a hearty, healthier option. This adds both texture and nutrients, making it a complete dish!
What to Serve with Christmas Focaccia Bread?
The inviting aroma of freshly baked focaccia pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, creating a festive feast for your loved ones.
Herbed Olive Oil: A simple dip of olive oil mixed with herbs brings out the bread’s flavors and encourages that first delightful bite.
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: The classic combination of warm, tangy soup alongside fluffy focaccia is simply comforting, perfect for those cozy holiday gatherings.
Savory Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses offers a rich contrast to the fluffy focaccia. Add fruits and nuts for a festive touch.
Roasted Veggies: Colorful roasted vegetables provide a nutritious and flavorful complement, creating a gorgeous contrast on your table.
Fresh Salad: A crisp Mediterranean salad with olives, cucumbers, and feta adds a refreshing crunch, balancing out the warm bread beautifully.
Sparkling White Wine: To elevate your meal, a glass of bubbly wine adds a festive sparkle, enhancing the flavors with every sip.
Warm Chocolate Cake: For dessert, a slice of indulgent chocolate cake brings a sweet finale to your meal, perfect for those special holiday moments.
Make Ahead Options
You can easily prepare components of this delicious Christmas Focaccia Bread ahead of time, saving precious minutes on busy days! The dough can be made and left to rise for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator instead of the usual warm spot, allowing for an extended rise that enhances flavor. To do this, simply follow the recipe through the first rise, then punch down the dough, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, take the dough out and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping and adding toppings. This method ensures your focaccia remains just as delightful and fluffy while streamlining your meal prep on busy holiday occasions!
Christmas Focaccia Bread Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best toppings for my Christmas Focaccia Bread?
Absolutely! Choosing the right toppings can elevate your focaccia. Look for fresh ingredients like vibrant cherry tomatoes, aromatic rosemary, or savory olives. For a festive touch, consider colorful bell peppers, thinly sliced red onions, or even a sprinkle of cheese. The key is to use seasonal produce to enhance both flavor and visual appeal.
What’s the best way to store leftover Christmas Focaccia Bread?
I recommend allowing the focaccia to cool completely. Store it at room temperature in a sealed plastic bag or airtight container for up to 2 days to keep it soft. For longer storage, place it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before enjoying!
Can I freeze my Christmas Focaccia Bread?
Absolutely! For freezing, slice the focaccia or keep it whole, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to reinstate that freshly baked taste.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
Very commonly, dough doesn’t rise due to either inactive yeast or improper temperature. Ensure your yeast is fresh; if it’s past its expiration date, it might be time to get a new packet. Warm water helps activate the yeast, but it shouldn’t be too hot or cold—ideally, around 110°F (43°C). If your kitchen is cold, try placing the dough in a warm area or turning on your oven for a few minutes (then turning it off!) to create a cozy environment for rising.
Is Christmas Focaccia Bread suitable for those with gluten allergies?
Unfortunately, this recipe is not gluten-free as it contains all-purpose flour. However, if you have someone gluten-sensitive at your gathering, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend that contains xanthan gum. Be sure to check that all other toppings are also gluten-free, as some may contain hidden gluten.
How long does it take Christmas Focaccia Bread to cool before serving?
I typically recommend waiting about 10-15 minutes after baking before slicing into your focaccia. This allows the bread to set and the interior to finish cooking. Serving it warm enhances the flavors, but letting it cool slightly helps maintain that perfect texture!
Irresistibly Festive Christmas Focaccia Bread to Wow Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of salt, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 packet of active dry yeast until evenly mixed.
- Gradually pour in 1 1/2 cups of warm water and 1/4 cup of olive oil. Mix the ingredients together until a soft dough begins to form.
- On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it has a smooth and elastic texture.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- While waiting, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Once risen, punch down the dough gently, spread it out evenly on a greased baking sheet.
- Use your fingers to create dimples all over the dough's surface, then sprinkle on your assorted toppings.
- Place your focaccia in the oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes or until it turns a beautiful golden brown.
- Once baked, allow to cool slightly before slicing and serve warm.