Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1 cup warm water (around 110°F / 43°C)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Filling and Topping
- 1/2 cup jam (any flavor, preferably thick)
- Extra sugar for topping (granulated or powdered sugar)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast and 2 tablespoons sugar into 1 cup of warm water. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix Dough: Add the 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup olive oil, and 1/2 teaspoon salt into the yeast mixture. Mix everything together until a soft dough forms.
- Knead Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it until smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes. Then place it in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Prepare Dough in Pan: After the dough has risen, punch it down gently and press it evenly into a greased baking pan, spreading it out to fit the pan size.
- Add Jam Filling: Spoon the 1/2 cup of jam evenly over the surface of the dough. Gently press the jam into the dough using the back of a spoon to ensure it sticks and becomes embedded slightly into the dough’s surface.
- Second Rise: Cover the baking pan with a cloth and let the dough rise again for 20 minutes at room temperature to ensure a light and fluffy texture.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Bake the focaccia for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dough is cooked through.
- Add Sugar Topping: Once baked, remove the focaccia from the oven and while it is still warm, sprinkle generously with extra sugar (granulated or powdered) to give that sweet, donut-like finish.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving. Best enjoyed fresh for optimal softness and flavor.
Notes
- Use thick jam to prevent excess moisture in the dough, which can make it soggy.
- For extra sweetness and visual appeal, consider dusting with powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar.
- This focaccia is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- If preferred, warm the focaccia before serving to enhance the jam’s flavor and soften the texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian