Cinnamon Focaccia

If you’re looking for a deliciously easy treat that brings the warmth and comfort of home baking, then you’ll adore this Cinnamon Focaccia! Imagine waking up to the smell of freshly baked bread, with sweet cinnamon swirls mingling throughout. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings when you want something homemade but don’t have hours to spare in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a fun activity to do with loved ones!

What makes this Cinnamon Focaccia so special is its soft, pillowy texture combined with those crispy edges. Every bite is filled with the rich flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar, and topped off with a drizzle of vanilla icing that just melts into the warm dough. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will become a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal effort and uses simple steps to create something truly impressive.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids will love helping out, especially when it comes to dimpling the dough and drizzling the icing!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this Cinnamon Focaccia fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: With an overnight rise in the refrigerator, you can prep ahead and bake fresh focaccia whenever you want.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and brown butter creates a mouthwatering aroma that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Cinnamon Focaccia, you’ll be using some simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Gather these delightful components to create a treat that’s as comforting as it is delicious!

For the Dough:

• 2 cups warm water (heated to about 110℉)
• 2 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tsp white granulated sugar
• 4 cups bread flour (spooned and leveled)
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Topping:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
• 6 tbsp brown butter (see notes below)
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar
• 2 tsp cinnamon

For the Vanilla Icing:

• 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 tbsp milk (adjust for desired consistency)

Variations

This Cinnamon Focaccia recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch and flavor boost.
• Fruit Twist: Mix in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries before baking for extra sweetness.
• Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh herbs like rosemary to the dough for a unique savory-sweet combination.
• Chocolate Delight: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the cinnamon topping before baking for a decadent treat.

How to Make Cinnamon Focaccia

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by activating your yeast! In a small bowl, combine warm water (about 110℉) with granulated sugar. This step is crucial because it wakes up the yeast, helping it grow and create fluffy dough. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes foamy.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour and salt. This ensures even distribution of salt throughout your dough. Pour in your activated yeast mixture along with olive oil. Stir everything together until it forms a sticky dough ball. Lightly rub olive oil on the surface of the dough—this keeps it from drying out while rising.

Step 3: First Rise

Now it’s time for the first rise! Cover your bowl with a damp tea towel or plastic wrap so that none of that lovely moisture escapes. Place it in your refrigerator for at least 12 hours. This slow rise develops flavor while making your focaccia incredibly soft.

Step 4: Second Rise

Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper—this helps prevent sticking when baking. Pour 2 tablespoons of melted butter into the center of the pan. Gently deflate your risen dough by pulling from the sides of the bowl toward its center several times before placing it into your buttered pan. Cover again and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 ½ – 2 hours.

Step 5: Make Brown Butter

While waiting for your second rise, let’s make some delicious brown butter! In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt half a cup of butter while stirring continuously until you notice that nutty aroma and see golden-amber color forming—this adds depth of flavor to our focaccia! Remove from heat immediately to prevent burning and let cool slightly.

Step 6: Make Cinnamon Topping

Mix brown sugar and cinnamon into your browned butter until fully dissolved. The aroma alone will make your kitchen feel like heaven!

Step 7: Dimple the Dough

Preheat your oven to 450℉ now! Once your dough has risen beautifully, dip wet fingertips into its surface and gently press deep dimples all over—it’s not just decorative; these dimples hold that luscious topping perfectly! Drizzle your cinnamon-butter evenly over all those little wells.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top—keep an eye on it because every oven is different! Let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 9: Finish with Vanilla Icing

To create that irresistible finish, combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this heavenly icing evenly over your warm focaccia slices—trust me; each piece will be divine!

Enjoy every fluffy bite of this marvelous Cinnamon Focaccia—it’s bound to become a cherished recipe among friends and family alike!

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Focaccia

Making Cinnamon Focaccia can be a delightful experience, and with a few simple tips, you can ensure your creation turns out perfect every time!

• Use the right flour: Opt for bread flour instead of all-purpose flour for a chewier texture. The higher protein content in bread flour helps create that soft, airy structure we love in focaccia.

• Be patient with rising: Allowing your dough to rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight enhances the flavor and texture. This long fermentation process develops complex flavors you’ll adore.

• Don’t skip the dimpling: Pressing deep dimples into the dough isn’t just for looks; it creates pockets for the cinnamon-butter mixture to seep into. This ensures every bite is infused with delicious flavor!

• Watch your baking time: Keep an eye on your focaccia as it bakes. Ovens can vary, and even a few minutes too long can lead to over-browning. Aim for golden brown edges while keeping the center soft.

• Customize your icing: Feel free to adjust the consistency of your vanilla icing by adding more or less milk. A thicker icing will hold its shape better, while a thinner icing seeps beautifully into the warm focaccia.

How to Serve Cinnamon Focaccia

Cinnamon Focaccia is not only delicious but also visually appealing! Presenting it well can turn this everyday treat into a showstopper for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts on top of your focaccia before serving for added crunch and flavor.

• Fresh fruit: Serve with fresh berries or slices of apple on the side to complement the sweetness of the cinnamon and provide a refreshing contrast.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt brings a tangy balance to the sweet focaccia and adds protein to your meal.

• Fruit salad: A colorful fruit salad made with seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, making it a perfect accompaniment.

• Herbal tea: Pairing your Cinnamon Focaccia with a soothing cup of herbal tea like chamomile or mint enhances the overall experience, perfect for brunch or an afternoon snack.

• Coffee: For those who love their morning caffeine, a nice cup of coffee complements the warm spices beautifully—making each bite even more delightful!

Enjoy crafting this Cinnamon Focaccia and sharing it with friends and family—it’s bound to become a favorite at any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cinnamon Focaccia is a fantastic option for meal prep! It’s perfect for making ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy its deliciousness throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Consume within 2-3 days for the best flavor and texture.
• If you notice it becoming stale, consider warming it up before serving!

Freezing

• Slice the focaccia into squares before freezing for easy individual servings.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat focaccia slices in a preheated oven at 350℉ for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave a slice for 20-30 seconds if you’re short on time.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Cinnamon Focaccia.

Can I make Cinnamon Focaccia without bread flour?

Absolutely! While bread flour gives it that lovely chewy texture, all-purpose flour can work as a substitute. Just keep an eye on the dough consistency!

What makes this Cinnamon Focaccia different from cinnamon rolls?

Cinnamon Focaccia combines the flavors of cinnamon rolls with an easier baking process. You’ll enjoy that same delicious taste but with less effort in preparation.

How should I store my Cinnamon Focaccia?

Store your Cinnamon Focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days to keep it fresh and tasty.

Can I add nuts or fruits to my Cinnamon Focaccia?

Yes! Feel free to customize your Cinnamon Focaccia by adding nuts like pecans or walnuts or even dried fruits such as raisins for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to try this delightful Cinnamon Focaccia! It’s such a special treat that’s sure to bring warmth and joy to your kitchen. Whether enjoyed at breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet dessert, I believe you’ll love every fluffy bite. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turns out!