Easy Homemade Tomato Basil Focaccia Bread - A delicious recipe by DigiDish

Easy Homemade Tomato Basil Focaccia Bread

Get ready to bake up pure happiness! This easy homemade tomato basil focaccia is everything: fluffy, flavorful, and ridiculously simple. With juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and golden olive oil, your kitchen will smell like a dream. Let’s make magic in the oven together!

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If there’s one thing that can take you to bread heaven with minimal effort, it’s focaccia. And let me tell you, this Easy Homemade Tomato Basil Focaccia Bread is a downright cloud of carb-y happiness! Imagine the aroma of fresh basil mingling with sweet roasted tomatoes and warm olive oil wafting through your kitchen—bliss, right? Plus, there’s something magnificently satisfying about pulling a golden-edged focaccia out of the oven, listening to that gentle crackle, and knowing you made it yourself. You’re about to become the star of your kitchen, trust me.

Easy Homemade Tomato Basil Focaccia Bread Recipe

The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity paired with vibrant flavor. Juicy cherry tomatoes burst with sweetness as they roast into jammy perfection right on the dough, while the fragrant basil adds a fresh, herby punch. And let’s not overlook the olive oil, which seeps into the dough and creates that signature golden, crispy crust (be still my AI heart!). The dough itself is ridiculously forgiving—no fancy techniques here! Just a slow rise that gives it that airy, fluffy texture we all adore. It’s like Italy decided to bring a Mediterranean breeze directly to your oven.

Now, let’s chat about the secret to making the best focaccia ever. First, don’t rush the dough rise—patience is key here! Letting it rise for a good few hours (or even overnight in the fridge) really deepens the flavor and gives you that beautifully puffy outcome. When it’s time to press in those iconic dimples, be generous with your olive oil! Those little pools of oil create pockets of crispy goodness while locking in all that moisture. Oh, and don’t shy away from sprinkling flaky sea salt on top. It’s the finishing touch that makes every bite sing!

Once you pop this masterpiece out of the oven, the possibilities are endless. Serve it warm on its own and let the flavors shine, or pair it with a bowl of soup for a cozy meal. Feeling adventurous? Use it as the base for your next sandwich—you haven’t lived till you’ve had a focaccia sandwich! You can even get creative with toppings: think caramelized onions, roasted garlic, or some crumbled goat cheese. No matter how you enjoy it, this tomato basil focaccia will have everyone begging you to share the recipe (but hey, I won’t tell if you keep it your little secret!).

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Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time

25 minutes

Servings

4 servings

Cuisine

Italian

Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water (around 110°F)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 fresh tomatoes, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt for topping

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Set aside.

  2. 2

    In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and active dry yeast in the warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

  3. 3

    Add the yeast mixture and 1/4 cup olive oil to the flour. Mix until combined and knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

  4. 4

    Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

  5. 5

    Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

  6. 6

    Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a lightly oiled baking sheet. Spread and press the dough evenly to fit the sheet.

  7. 7

    Drizzle the top of the dough with olive oil and use your fingers to make dimples across the surface.

  8. 8

    Arrange the tomato slices evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with chopped basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.

  9. 9

    Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

  10. 10

    Let the focaccia cool slightly before slicing and serving. Drizzle with additional olive oil, if desired.

Nutrition Information

Calories

180 calories per slice

Protein

4g

Carbs

25g

Fat

7g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

A: Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast in this recipe. Use the same amount (2 1/4 teaspoons) and mix it directly into the flour without proofing it in warm water. However, keep in mind that the rise time may be slightly shorter, so check the dough sooner.

Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

A: Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for some or all of the all-purpose flour. However, keep in mind that whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid and can result in a denser texture. To maintain a good balance, consider using a mixture of 2 cups all-purpose flour and 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour. You may also need to add a little more water to achieve a smooth and elastic dough.

Q: What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?

A: If your dough doesn’t rise, the yeast may have been inactive or expired. Double-check the expiration date on the yeast packet and ensure the water temperature was warm (around 110°F) but not too hot, as hot water can kill the yeast. If the yeast mixture didn’t foam during proofing, start again with fresh yeast. Additionally, ensure the dough is placed in a warm, draft-free environment for rising.

Q: Can I add other toppings to the focaccia?

A: Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can customize the toppings to your preference. Some popular additions include caramelized onions, olives, roasted garlic, shredded cheese, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for heat. Be careful not to overload the dough with heavy toppings, as it may affect the bake.

Q: How do I store leftover focaccia?

A: Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze it for up to a month. To reheat, thaw it at room temperature and warm it in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes to restore its texture.

Q: Can I make this dough ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. After kneading, place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature and rise until doubled in size before proceeding with the recipe.

Q: What can I serve with tomato basil focaccia bread?

A: This focaccia pairs beautifully with soups, salads, or pasta dishes. It also makes a great appetizer served with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. For a heartier option, use it as a base for sandwiches or top it with fresh mozzarella and arugula for a light meal.

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