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The BEST Sourdough Focaccia Recipe

There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home. For me, the warm scent of sourdough focaccia always takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where I would curl up on a cozy chair, watching her knead dough with love and care. Each golden, tender slice was an invitation to indulge and remember. Sourdough focaccia is not just a recipe; it’s a hug for the soul and a celebration of the everyday moments we cherish. Perfect for easy weeknight dinners, cozy family gatherings, or weekend brunch, this is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Follow: Perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, this recipe is a journey into the art of bread-making that anyone can enjoy.
Deliciously Versatile: Customize your focaccia with your favorite toppings, ensuring it fits every occasion and palate.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The rich, buttery notes of olive oil combined with fresh herbs create a delightful, inviting taste.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a social gathering, this focaccia brings everyone together around the table.
Heavenly Texture: The airy, crisp crust and soft, chewy interior create the ideal bread experience.

Let’s dive in and create some cherished moments around the table!

Ingredients You’ll Need for The BEST Sourdough Focaccia

100g sourdough starter (active)
390ml slightly warm water
15 – 20ml (1 tablespoon) extra virgin olive oil
10g (2 teaspoons) fine sea salt
500g white bread flour (12% protein content or higher)
45 – 60ml (3-4 tablespoons) extra virgin olive oil
Flaky sea salt (generous sprinkle)
Rosemary sprigs (or toppings of choice)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s make it together! Follow these simple steps to create your delicious focaccia.

Mixing Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the active sourdough starter and slightly warm water. Stir to blend until smooth. Gradually add the flour, salt, and a tablespoon of olive oil, mixing until it forms a rough dough.
Folding the Dough: Once the dough comes together, gently knead it a few times in the bowl to incorporate any dry bits. You’re looking for a smooth, slightly sticky texture.
Bulk Proof: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for about 4-6 hours, until it has roughly doubled in size.
The Next Day – Placing Dough into Tray: Scoop the dough out onto a greased baking tray (around 9×13 inches) and gently stretch it to fill the tray without deflating it too much.
Second Proof in Tray: Cover the tray with a damp towel and let it rise again for another 2 hours, allowing it to puff up beautifully.
Dimpling the Focaccia: After the second proof, use your fingers to create dimples in the dough. These little pockets will hold the olive oil and toppings beautifully.
Topping the Focaccia: Drizzle the dough generously with olive oil and sprinkle with flaky sea salt and rosemary sprigs (or your chosen toppings).
Baking the Focaccia: Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Bake for around 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and the crust is crisp.
ENJOY!: Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature as a delicious side or a standalone treat.
Storing Focaccia: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Alternatively, slice and freeze for longer storage.
Digital Scales: For precise measurements, I always recommend using digital scales, making your baking experience easier and more accurate.

Delicious Variations to Try

Looking to switch things up? Here are some creative twists to make your focaccia unique!

Herbed Garlic Focaccia: Infuse the olive oil with minced garlic and fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for a rich, herby flavor.
Roasted Cherry Tomato and Basil: Add freshly roasted cherry tomatoes and sprinkle with basil for a zesty summer flare.
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese: Top with sweet caramelized onions and creamy goat cheese for a decadent, indulgent twist.
Olive and Feta Focaccia: Add green or black olives and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean touch that pops with flavor.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

Make-Ahead Advice: You can prepare the dough the night before and let it cold-proof in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours, perfect for a delicious morning treat!
Keep It Moist: When storing, make sure it’s in an airtight container to maintain its soft texture.
Slicing Tricks: Use a serrated knife for clean cuts through the soft bread, especially if adding toppings.
Substitutions: If you run out of olive oil, you can substitute it with melted butter for a different buttery flavor.

Nutrition Information per Serving

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 200
Carbohydrates: 30g
Sugar: 1g
Fat: 8g
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 250mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?
Yes, this focaccia can be made in advance and stored for a few days or frozen for later enjoyment.
Can I use different ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize with toppings and herbs that you love.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep any leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
How long does it last?
Homemade focaccia is best enjoyed fresh, but it can last for up to 3 days when stored properly.

Wrapping It Up

There you have it—your very own recipe for The BEST Sourdough Focaccia! With each slice offering a tender chew, crisp crust, and buttery flavor, this recipe captures the essence of love and warmth baked right into every bite. Remember, cooking is as much about sharing those special moments as it is about the food itself! Save this recipe to your cozy baking board so it’s ready when you need a comforting treat or want to impress your loved ones with something special! Happy baking!