Christmas Focaccia Bread: 7 Steps to Holiday Magic

Name: Christmas Focaccia Bread: 7 Steps to Holiday Magic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast; 1 1/2 cups warm water; 2 tsp salt; 1 tbsp sugar; 1/4 cup olive oil; Fresh rosemary sprigs; Cherry tomatoes; Sea salt for topping

November 19, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite thing to bake during the holiday season: *Christmas focaccia bread*! The aroma that fills your kitchen as this bread bakes is simply heavenly, and it’s the perfect centerpiece for any festive gathering. I remember the first time I made it for a Christmas dinner with my family. We all gathered around the table, and when I pulled that golden, herb-topped bread out of the oven, everyone’s eyes lit up! It was like I had conjured some kind of Christmas magic!

This focaccia is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s also a delight for the eyes! The vibrant cherry tomatoes and fresh rosemary create a beautiful, colorful display that’s sure to impress your guests. Best of all, it’s surprisingly easy to make! Just imagine slicing into that warm, fluffy bread, the steam rising, as you spread a bit of olive oil or dip it into your favorite balsamic vinegar. Trust me, you’ll want to make this every year! So, grab your apron, and let’s get started on this festive journey together!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful *Christmas focaccia bread*. I promise, it’s all straightforward stuff that you probably have in your pantry! Just make sure to measure carefully for the best results:

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
1 1/2 cups warm water (not too hot, just warm to the touch!)
2 tsp salt
1 tbsp sugar
1/4 cup olive oil
Fresh rosemary sprigs (about 6-8, or more if you love that flavor!)
Cherry tomatoes (around 10-12, halved or whole, your choice!)
Sea salt for topping (this really makes a difference, trust me!)

That’s it! Just grab these ingredients, and you’re all set to create something beautiful and delicious. The combination of the rosemary and tomatoes not only adds flavor but also gives your focaccia that festive look we all adore during the holidays!

How to Prepare Christmas Focaccia Bread

Alright, let’s dive into the wonderful world of making *Christmas focaccia bread*! I promise, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be whipping up this festive treat like a pro. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a glorious bread that’ll wow everyone at your holiday gatherings.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

First things first, you’ll want to grab a bowl and mix together your warm water, sugar, and that little packet of instant yeast. Give it a gentle stir and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This step is super important because it wakes up the yeast and gets it all bubbly and frothy—trust me, it’s the magic that makes your focaccia rise!

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Once your yeast mixture is all frothy (yay!), it’s time to add in the flour, salt, and olive oil. I usually like to mix it with a wooden spoon at first until everything starts to come together. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there! Once you’ve got a nice dough formed, you know you’re on the right track.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Now, let’s get physical! Turn that dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes. You want to work it until it’s smooth and elastic. This step is crucial because it develops the gluten, giving your focaccia that lovely chewy texture. It’s a workout, but oh-so-worth it!

Step 4: First Rise

After kneading, place your dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour. You want it to double in size, so be patient! Use this time to sip on some hot cocoa or maybe put on your favorite holiday tunes. The smell of the yeast rising will make your kitchen feel so cozy!

Step 5: Preheat and Roll Out

Once your dough has risen beautifully, it’s time to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is a key step, folks—don’t skip it! While the oven is heating up, roll out your dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You want it to be about 1/2 inch thick. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect; rustic is the name of the game here!

Step 6: Add Toppings

Now comes the fun part! Press those beautiful cherry tomatoes and fresh rosemary sprigs into the dough. Get creative with it! Sprinkle a generous amount of sea salt on top—this really elevates the flavors and gives your focaccia that extra festive flair.

Step 7: Bake

Pop your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for that gorgeous golden-brown color. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, and you’ll know it’s almost time to feast!

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Once it’s out of the oven, let your focaccia cool for a few minutes before slicing into it. This is crucial because it allows the texture to settle a bit. Serve it warm, and watch everyone’s faces light up with joy! You’re going to love sharing this delightful bread with family and friends.

FAQ Section

Can I use different toppings for the focaccia?

Absolutely! One of the best things about *Christmas focaccia bread* is how customizable it is. You can mix and match toppings to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Think sliced olives, roasted garlic, or even some crumbled feta cheese! Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can add a delightful twist, too. Just remember to press them into the dough gently so they bake beautifully into the bread!

How do I store leftover focaccia?

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious!), store your focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it fresh. If you want to keep it longer, pop it in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember to reheat it gently in the oven to bring back that lovely warmth and texture before serving!

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

Yes, you can! Using whole wheat flour will give your *Christmas focaccia bread* a nuttier flavor and a denser texture, which some people really enjoy. I often like to do a mix of all-purpose and whole wheat flour—about half and half—to get the best of both worlds! Just keep in mind that whole wheat flour absorbs more water, so you might need to adjust the liquid slightly if you go that route. Experiment and find what you love!

Why You’ll Love Christmas Focaccia Bread

Festive: The vibrant colors from the cherry tomatoes and fresh rosemary make it a stunning addition to your holiday table!
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this delicious bread.
Perfect for Gatherings: This bread is a fantastic crowd-pleaser, ideal for sharing with family and friends during the holidays.
Flavorful: The combination of olive oil, fresh herbs, and juicy tomatoes creates a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.
Customizable: Feel free to get creative with toppings! You can mix in your favorite herbs or vegetables for a personal touch.

Tips for Success

To make sure your *Christmas focaccia bread* turns out perfectly every time, I’ve got a few tried-and-true tips that I swear by. These little nuggets of wisdom will help you achieve that fluffy, flavorful bread that everyone will rave about!

Measure Accurately: Baking is a science, so it’s important to measure your ingredients precisely. Too much flour can make your bread dense, while too little can lead to a sticky mess. I always use a kitchen scale when possible for the best results!
Check Your Yeast: If you’re unsure about your yeast’s potency, do a quick test! Just mix it with warm water and sugar like in the first step. If it doesn’t get bubbly and frothy, it might be time to buy a fresh packet.
Don’t Rush the Rise: Allowing your dough to rise properly is key to a light and airy focaccia. If your kitchen is cold, find a cozy spot like near the oven or wrap the bowl in a warm towel to help it along.
Use Quality Olive Oil: Since olive oil is a star ingredient, choose a good-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. You’ll appreciate the difference when you take that first bite!
Experiment with Toppings: While I love the classic cherry tomato and rosemary combo, don’t be afraid to get creative! Try adding caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, or even a sprinkle of cheese for a delicious twist.
Let It Cool: As tempting as it is to dive right in, letting your focaccia cool for a few minutes before slicing helps it retain its shape and texture. Plus, the aroma will keep everyone guessing what’s baking!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create the *Christmas focaccia bread* of your dreams. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to have fun along the way! Happy baking!

Nutritional Information Section

Alright, let’s talk about the numbers behind this delicious *Christmas focaccia bread*! Now, keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes. But here’s a general idea of what you can expect per slice:

Calories: 250
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 6g
Sodium: 300mg
Sugar: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg

This bread is a delightful mix of carbs and flavor, making it a perfect addition to your holiday meals! Enjoy every slice without any guilt; after all, it’s the holidays—and that’s what it’s all about, right?

What’s Next?

I’d love to hear all about your *Christmas focaccia bread* adventures! Did you try out any fun toppings or make your own twist on this recipe? Please leave a comment below and share your thoughts or any tips you discovered along the way. I absolutely enjoy connecting with fellow bakers!

If you loved this recipe, I’d be so grateful if you could rate it! Your feedback not only helps me but also inspires others to try their hand at this festive bread. And don’t forget to share your delicious creations on social media! Tag me in your photos—I can’t wait to see how your focaccia turns out. Happy baking, and let’s spread the holiday cheer together!