Holiday Bread with Rosemary (Print View)

Festive Italian focaccia with a crunchy crust, soft crumb, and fragrant rosemary topping.

# What You'll Need:

→ Dough

01 - 4 cups bread flour
02 - 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 105°F)
03 - 2 teaspoons fine sea salt
04 - 2 1/4 teaspoons instant dry yeast
05 - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

→ Topping

06 - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
07 - 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary sprigs
08 - 1 1/2 teaspoons flaky sea salt

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Combine bread flour and fine sea salt in a large mixing bowl.
02 - Dissolve instant dry yeast in warm water and let rest for 5 minutes until foamy.
03 - Pour yeast mixture and olive oil into flour mixture and stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
04 - Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
05 - Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
06 - Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
07 - Punch down the dough, transfer to baking sheet, and stretch into a 12x8 inch rectangle.
08 - Use fingertips to create deep dimples on dough surface, drizzle with olive oil, and scatter rosemary sprigs and flaky sea salt evenly.
09 - Cover loosely and let the dough rise for 30 minutes.
10 - Bake for 22 to 25 minutes until crust is deep golden brown and crisp.
11 - Allow bread to cool slightly, then slice and serve warm.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Golden crust with soft interior
  • Featuring fragrant rosemary sprigs
02 -
  • Contains wheat (gluten)
  • May contain traces of sesame or nuts if processed in facilities handling these allergens
03 -
  • Knead the dough until smooth and elastic to develop gluten
  • Use fingertips to dimple dough deeply for the perfect texture
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