Homemade Rosemary Focaccia

with Dipping Oil

Focaccia is one of my favorite breads to bake because it’s so simple but feels like a treat every time. It’s soft, fluffy, and full of flavor, with that golden crust that makes it hard not to sneak a bite right out of the pan. I love how versatile it is too, you can keep it classic with olive oil and herbs, or dress it up with toppings like tomatoes, garlic, or even a sprinkle of cheese. Plus, the smell that fills the kitchen while it bakes is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. This is the recipe I always come back to when I want something easy, delicious, and a little special.

Ingredients

For the Focaccia:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
• 1 cup warm water (not hot—about 110°F)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
• Fresh rosemary sprigs
• Flaky sea salt

For the Dipping Oil:

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt & freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Directions

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Stir in flour, salt, and olive oil until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise 1 hour (until doubled in size).

Step 2: Prepare the Focaccia

1. Grease a baking dish or sheet pan with olive oil.
2. Press the risen dough into the pan with your fingers, stretching it to fit.
3. Cover and let rise another 20–30 minutes.
4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Before baking, use your fingertips to poke dimples all over the dough.
6. Drizzle with olive oil, press rosemary sprigs gently into the surface, and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown.

Step 3: Make the Dipping Oil

1. In a small bowl, stir together olive oil, garlic, herbs, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
2. Serve alongside warm focaccia for dipping.

That’s it!!! Fresh, homemade focaccia that’s simple enough for a weeknight but delicious enough to impress anyone. Whether you serve it warm with dinner, use it for sandwiches, or just tear off pieces to dip in olive oil, it’s one of those recipes you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it disappears faster than you expected!

✨ Pro tip: Swap rosemary for other toppings like cherry tomatoes, olives, cheese or caramelized onions to change up the flavor.