Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite treat: cinnamon focaccia! The moment I pull this fragrant masterpiece from the oven, my whole kitchen fills with the warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon and sugar. It’s like getting a big hug from a fluffy cloud! Picture this: you slice into the golden, crispy crust to reveal a soft, pillowy interior, and you can almost hear the sighs of happiness from everyone around. Trust me, you’ll want to make this for cozy family gatherings or just to indulge yourself on a quiet afternoon. Once you try my cinnamon focaccia, you’ll be hooked—it’s the perfect blend of sweet and savory that you just can’t resist!
Ingredients for Cinnamon Focaccia
Let’s dive into what you’ll need to whip up this delightful cinnamon focaccia. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that soft, sweet, and aromatic bread that’s sure to wow anyone who tries it!
- 4 cups all-purpose flour: This is your base! Make sure it’s measured correctly for the best texture. I like to spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid packing it down.
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast: This little powerhouse helps your dough rise beautifully without the long wait. Instant yeast is great because it can go right into the dry ingredients without blooming first!
- 1 teaspoon salt: Salt enhances the flavor and strengthens the dough. Just a teaspoon makes a big difference, so don’t skip it!
- 1 tablespoon sugar: This adds a hint of sweetness to the dough, balancing out the savory elements. It also helps in browning the crust!
- 1 1/2 cups warm water: The perfect temperature is key here—around 110°F (43°C). It should feel warm to the touch, not hot! This helps activate the yeast without killing it.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: This adds moisture and flavor. I love using high-quality extra virgin olive oil for its rich taste; it really elevates the focaccia!
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: The star of the show! This fragrant spice is what makes your focaccia smell heavenly and taste so comforting.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: This adds a lovely caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon. You can adjust it to your taste if you prefer it sweeter or less so!
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional): I often sprinkle on some walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. If you’re nut-free, feel free to skip this ingredient!
Gather these ingredients, and you’re well on your way to baking up some magic! Remember, fresh ingredients yield the best results, so try to grab the freshest flour and spices you can find.
How to Prepare Cinnamon Focaccia
Alright, let’s roll up our sleeves and get into the fun part—making that delicious cinnamon focaccia! I promise, with each step, you’ll be one step closer to experiencing that heavenly aroma wafting through your home. Just follow along, and you’ll have a gorgeous loaf in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, grab a large mixing bowl and combine your all-purpose flour, instant yeast, salt, and sugar. Give it a good stir to mix everything evenly. This is where the magic begins!
- Next, we’re going to add the warm water and olive oil into the dry mixture. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to stir until it all comes together. Don’t worry if it looks a bit shaggy at this point; that’s totally normal!
- Now comes the kneading! Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes. You’ll want to push, fold, and turn the dough until it feels smooth and elastic. This is a great workout, and trust me, it makes all the difference in texture!
- Once you’ve kneaded it, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour. You want it to double in size—so give it some time to get fluffy and happy!
- While that dough is rising, go ahead and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, your oven will be ready to go right when your dough is!
- After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Turn it out onto a greased baking sheet and spread it out with your fingers. You want it to have a nice, even thickness, so take your time with this step.
- Now, here comes the fun part! Mix together the ground cinnamon and brown sugar in a small bowl, then sprinkle it generously over the surface of the dough. If you’re adding nuts, now’s the time to scatter them on top, too!
- Pop that beauty in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until it’s golden brown. You’ll know it’s done when your kitchen smells like a cinnamon paradise!
- Let your focaccia cool for a bit before slicing it up. I know it’s tempting to dive right in, but giving it a moment will help those flavors settle beautifully.
And there you have it! Your own homemade cinnamon focaccia, ready to be enjoyed. It’s perfect as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast. Wow, I can already smell it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of warm cinnamon and sugary sweetness makes every bite a cozy delight that’s hard to resist!
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you don’t need to be a master baker to create this scrumptious focaccia.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy it as a sweet snack, a delightful breakfast, or even a dessert! It pairs beautifully with coffee or tea.
- Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 12 servings, making it a great option for gatherings, parties, or just to spoil your family!
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or even a drizzle of icing on top for an extra special touch!
- Comforting Aroma: The smell of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen is an instant mood booster and will have everyone asking what’s baking!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re ready to make your cinnamon focaccia, here are some of my tried-and-true tips to ensure you achieve the best results. Trust me, these little insights can make a big difference!
- Kneading Technique: When kneading the dough, use the heel of your hand to push it away from you, then fold it back over itself. Rotate the dough a quarter turn after each push. This creates the perfect elasticity! Don’t rush it; a solid 10 minutes of kneading will pay off in texture.
- Check Your Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh! If it’s been sitting in your pantry for a while, do a quick proof test by mixing it with warm water and a pinch of sugar. If it bubbles up after a few minutes, you’re good to go!
- Warm Rising Spot: For the best rise, find a warm and draft-free spot in your kitchen. If your home is chilly, you can turn on your oven for a minute, then turn it off and place the dough inside to rise. Just don’t forget to take it out before preheating!
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your focaccia towards the end of the baking time. It should be golden brown on top, but if it starts to darken too much, cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning. Your nose will guide you here—trust that cinnamon aroma!
- Resting Time: Waiting for your focaccia to cool slightly before slicing is key! This helps the texture settle and makes for cleaner slices. Plus, it’s a great way to build anticipation!
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative! You can mix in raisins or dried cranberries with the cinnamon sugar or try a drizzle of icing after it cools for a sweet finish. The possibilities are endless!
With these tips, you’re all set to bake up a delicious batch of cinnamon focaccia that’ll impress everyone. Get ready for the compliments!
Nutritional Information
Before we dive into the deliciousness, let’s chat about the nutritional side of this scrumptious cinnamon focaccia. Just a heads up—nutritional values can vary quite a bit based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so take these numbers as a general guideline rather than a hard rule!
Here’s an estimated breakdown per slice (that’s about 1/12th of the entire focaccia):
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 3g
Remember, if you swap out any ingredients or add toppings, those values will shift a bit. But hey, we’re here for the joy of baking and indulging, right? Enjoy every delicious bite of your cinnamon focaccia!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious cinnamon focaccia, you might be wondering how to keep those leftovers fresh and tasty. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Proper storage is key to maintaining that soft texture and mouthwatering flavor.
To store your focaccia, let it cool completely on a wire rack first. This prevents condensation from making it soggy. Once it’s cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. If you want to keep it even fresher, you can place it in an airtight container. It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days, though it may last up to a week at room temperature!
If you find yourself with a little more focaccia than you can eat right away, you can also freeze it! Just wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag or container. It’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy some leftover goodness, reheating is super easy! If it’s frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. For a quick reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. But if you want that fresh-baked taste, the oven is the way to go. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the slice directly on the rack or a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-7 minutes. You’ll love how the crust gets crispy again while the inside stays soft!
And there you have it! With just a few simple steps, you can keep your cinnamon focaccia delicious for days to come. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every last bite!
FAQ Section
Got questions about cinnamon focaccia? You’re not alone! Here are some of the most common inquiries I get, along with my answers to help you on your baking adventure!
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! Whole wheat flour will add a nutty flavor and a bit more texture to your focaccia. Just keep in mind, you might need to adjust the liquid slightly since whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture. Start with a little less water and add more as needed!
What if I don’t have instant yeast?
No problem! You can use active dry yeast instead. Just remember to proof it first by mixing it with warm water and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it’s foamy before adding it to your dry ingredients.
Can I make this focaccia vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, simply replace the honey or any other sugar with a vegan-friendly option, and you can use a plant-based oil instead of olive oil. Just make sure your sugar is vegan, too, as some sugars are processed with bone char!
What are some variations I can try?
The possibilities are endless! You can mix in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a fruity twist or add a splash of vanilla extract to the dough for extra flavor. Feel free to experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom to create your own unique version!
How do I know when my focaccia is done baking?
Your cinnamon focaccia is done when it’s golden brown on top and sounds hollow when you tap on the bottom. Also, if you can’t resist that delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen, you’re probably close to the finish line!
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can! If you want to prep ahead, let the dough rise and then punch it down. Wrap it tightly and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
What’s the best way to serve cinnamon focaccia?
While it’s fantastic on its own, I love serving it warm with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for an extra sweet touch. It’s also delightful alongside a cup of coffee or tea—perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat!
Hopefully, these answers help you feel more confident about making your own cinnamon focaccia. Happy baking!
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Cinnamon Focaccia: 7 Steps to Bake a Delightful Treat
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A sweet and aromatic cinnamon focaccia bread.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
- Add warm water and olive oil. Stir until combined.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover. Let it rise for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Punch down the dough and spread it onto a greased baking sheet.
- Mix cinnamon and brown sugar, then sprinkle it over the dough.
- If desired, add chopped nuts on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool before slicing.
Notes
- Best served warm.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: cinnamon focaccia
