The Easiest Crispy Focaccia Bread You’ll Ever Bake (No Mixer Needed)

3 min read
The Easiest Crispy Focaccia Bread You’ll Ever Bake (No Mixer Needed)

Focaccia is one of those breads that’s deceptively simple, yet endlessly satisfying. Golden on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and infused with olive oil and herbs—homemade focaccia is easier to make than you think, and once you try it, store-bought won’t stand a chance.

Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, using it for sandwiches, or just tearing off a piece to dip in olive oil and balsamic, this recipe will deliver bakery-quality results at home.

Why You’ll Love This Focaccia Recipe

  • Requires no stand mixer or advanced techniques

  • Perfectly crispy edges with a pillowy interior

  • Customizable with toppings like garlic, tomatoes, rosemary, or olives

  • Great for meal prep—it freezes and reheats beautifully

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and yeast. Add the warm water and olive oil, and stir until a sticky dough forms. No kneading needed.

2. Let It Rise

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel. Let it rise at room temperature for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.

3. Prepare the Pan

Generously coat a 9x13-inch baking pan (or sheet pan) with olive oil. Transfer the dough to the pan and use oiled hands to gently stretch and press it to the edges.

Let it rise again for 30–45 minutes, uncovered, for a second proof.

4. Dimple & Top

Preheat oven to 425°F. Use your fingers to press deep dimples all over the surface of the dough. Drizzle more olive oil over the top, then sprinkle with coarse salt and any toppings you like (rosemary, garlic, halved cherry tomatoes, etc.).

5. Bake

Bake for 22–28 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the edges. Let cool slightly before slicing or tearing.

Flavor Ideas & Topping Variations

  • Rosemary & Sea Salt – The classic

  • Tomato & Basil – Fresh and summery

  • Garlic & Parmesan – Rich and savory

  • Olive & Red Pepper Flake – Briny with a bit of heat

  • Caramelized Onion – Sweet and aromatic

Storage Tips

  • Store at room temperature, tightly wrapped, for up to 2 days.

  • To freeze, wrap slices in foil or plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month.

  • Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes to revive crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with soup or salad for a cozy lunch

  • Use it as sandwich bread (amazing with roasted veggies or grilled chicken)

  • Cut into strips and serve with dips like whipped ricotta, hummus, or tapenade

  • Turn leftovers into focaccia croutons or mini pizzas

Final Thoughts

Homemade focaccia bread is a recipe everyone should have in their back pocket. It’s rustic, forgiving, and full of rich, savory flavor—and the best part? You don’t need to be a bread expert to make it perfectly on the first try.

So next time you want to impress your dinner guests (or just treat yourself), skip the store-bought loaf and bake a batch of this easy, golden focaccia instead.