WEEKEND FAVORITES
Created with simple ingredients, shared with the people you love.
Rustic Rosemary Focaccia
There's something timeless about the aroma of fresh bread baking in the oven. Rustic Rosemary Focaccia is one of those recipes that transforms an ordinary meal into something memorable. With its crisp golden crust, tender airy interior, fragrant rosemary, flaky sea salt, and rich olive oil, this Italian classic is as beautiful on the table as it is delicious. Whether served alongside soup, paired with a fresh salad, or enjoyed warm on its own, this is a recipe you'll find yourself making again and again.
PREP TIME
20 Minutes
RISE TIME
2 Hours
BAKE TIME
25 Minutes
Recipe Details
Servings
10-12
DIFFICULTY
Moderate
Ingredients
Dough
4 cups bread flour
2¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1¾ cups warm water
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
Topping
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
Flaky sea salt
Fresh cracked black pepper
Optional: roasted garlic cloves
Instructions
1. Make the Dough
Combine flour, yeast, and salt in a large bowl.
Add warm water and olive oil.
Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl.
Cover with a towel.
Let rise in a warm place for about 90 minutes, or until doubled.
3. Prepare the Pan
Generously coat a 9×13-inch baking pan with olive oil.
Transfer the dough to the pan.
Gently stretch it toward the corners.
Let rest for 20–30 minutes if needed before stretching completely.
4. Second Rise
Cover and let rise another 30–45 minutes.
5. Create the Signature Dimples
Drizzle generously with olive oil.
Using your fingertips, press deep dimples across the surface.
Sprinkle with rosemary, flaky sea salt, cracked pepper, and roasted garlic if using.
6. Bake
Bake at 425°F for 22–25 minutes until deeply golden.
Cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
Serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy It Warm
Serve warm with seasoned olive oil and balsamic vinegar, alongside hearty soups, fresh salads, pasta dishes, or as the foundation for gourmet sandwiches. It also makes a beautiful addition to holiday dinners and outdoor gatherings.
Storage & Leftovers
Keep It Fresh
Store tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Freeze sliced portions for up to 2 months.
To refresh, warm in a 350°F oven for 5–8 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough the night before?
Absolutely. Refrigerating the dough overnight develops even deeper flavor.
Can I add other toppings?
Yes. Try roasted garlic, caramelized onions, cherry tomatoes, olives, parmesan, or fresh thyme.
Why do you make dimples?
The dimples allow the olive oil to pool slightly, creating the focaccia's signature crispy, flavorful crust.
Can I use all-purpose flour?
Yes, but bread flour gives the bread a chewier texture and better rise.
Is focaccia good for sandwiches?
It makes exceptional sandwiches because of its sturdy yet tender texture.
Around Our Table
Fresh bread has a way of slowing everyone down. The scent fills the kitchen long before it's ready, drawing people in with quiet anticipation. Around our table, focaccia is rarely the main attraction, yet it often becomes the first thing everyone reaches for. We love serving it warm with a small bowl of olive oil for dipping, encouraging everyone to tear off a piece, linger a little longer, and enjoy the simple pleasure of sharing good food together.
If you enjoyed this recipe, here are a few more favorites from our kitchen that we think you’ll love.
From Our Kitchen
Street Corn & Poblano Chowder
Creamy roasted corn chowder with smoky poblano peppers, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lime for a comforting Southwestern twist.
Lemon Herb Orzo Salad
Bright lemon, fresh herbs, crisp vegetables, creamy feta, and toasted pine nuts tossed with tender orzo for the perfect picnic, lunch, or patio dinner.
Summer Peach Cobbler
Sweet, sun-ripened peaches baked beneath a buttery golden topping and served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Every bite tastes like summer.