Hairy Bikers Focaccia Bread Recipe
Love soft, fluffy bread with a crispy top? This Hairy Bikers Focaccia Bread Recipe is your new go-to. It's easy to make at home.
Ingredients
- 500 g strong white bread flour about 4 cups
- 7 g instant yeast 1 sachet
- 2 tsp sea salt flakes
- 4 tbsp olive oil plus extra for drizzling
- 350 ml warm water about 1.5 cups
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary chopped (or 1 tbsp dried)
- 1 tsp flaky sea salt for topping
- Optional: Cherry tomatoes halved, 10-12, olives (sliced, handful)
Instructions
Mix the Dough
- Combine flour, yeast, and salt in a bowl. Add warm water and 4 tbsp olive oil. Stir until a sticky dough forms. No kneading needed yet.
Knead the Dough
- Tip onto a floured surface. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth. It will be soft and elastic. Feels great in your hands.
First Rise
- Oil a large bowl. Place dough inside. Cover with a damp towel. Let rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours. It doubles in size.
Shape and Second Rise
- Line baking sheet with parchment. Gently stretch dough to fit. Press fingers to dimple surface. Drizzle with oil. Add rosemary, salt, tomatoes, and olives. Cover loosely. Rise 30-45 mins more.
Bake to Perfection
- Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F). Bake for 20-25 mins. Top turns golden. Bottom sounds hollow when tapped.
Cool and Serve
- Remove from oven. Cool on wire rack 10 mins. Slice warm. Enjoy how to make Hairy Bikers Focaccia Bread magic!
Notes
- Use warm water (not hot) to activate yeast fast.
- Dimple dough firmly for those classic pockets.
- For garlic lovers, add minced garlic to oil.
- Variation: Cheese focaccia – sprinkle cheddar before baking.
- Variation: Onion focaccia – caramelize onions and top on.
- Let dough rise near a sunny window for speed.
- Brush extra oil post-bake for shine.
- Freeze dough balls for quick bakes later.
- High hydration makes it airy – don't add extra flour.