The kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of garlic melting into butter combined with the gentle crackle of dough bubbling in the oven—it’s a scent that invites you in like a warm hug. This Fluffy Garlic Butter Sourdough Focaccia brings together the delightful tang of homemade sourdough with the irresistible flavor of roasted garlic and fresh rosemary. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and reward; while it does take some time to rise, each step is about patience and anticipation. This isn’t just any bread; it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s fluffy on the inside with a beautifully crispy crust, perfect for sharing or savoring on your own. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—serve it warm as an appetizer or alongside dinner, and it’s sure to steal the show. Are you ready to elevate your bread-baking game with this delightful focaccia? Let’s dive in!
Why Is Sourdough Focaccia So Irresistible?
Deliciously Unique: This Focaccia has a tangy flavor from the sourdough that elevates it beyond typical bread.
Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can create bakery-style bread at home effortlessly.
Aromatic Appeal: The infusion of garlic and rosemary fills your kitchen with a welcoming aroma that draws everyone in.
Perfect for Any Meal: Whether as an appetizer, a side dish, or a stand-alone snack, this focaccia suits any dining occasion.
Versatile Toppings: Feel free to experiment with herbs or toppings like olives or sun-dried tomatoes to customize your creation!
Meal Prep Friendly: This bread can be made in advance and stored easily, ensuring you always have a delicious option on hand.
Diving into baking your own sourdough focaccia is about more than just bread; it’s an experience that brings warmth to your home!
Sourdough Focaccia Ingredients
For the Dough
• Sourdough Starter – A natural leavening agent that creates the tangy flavor; make sure it’s bubbly and active.
• Water – Hydrates the dough and activates the starter; approximately 2 cups of lukewarm water works best.
• Bread Flour – Provides structure and chewiness; using bread flour yields the best texture, but all-purpose flour is a good substitute.
• Salt – Enhances flavor and strengthens gluten structure, about 1.5 teaspoons is ideal.
• Olive Oil – Adds moisture and flavor; drizzle it generously to keep the focaccia light and airy.
For the Toppings
• Rosemary Sprigs – Fresh or dried, they add an aromatic flavor that enhances every bite.
• Finishing Salt – A sprinkle on top enhances the focaccia’s flavor and gives a nice crunch.
• Butter – Forms the base for the garlic topping, adding richness; consider using vegan butter for a non-dairy option.
• Parsley – Freshens up the garlic butter, adding color and a fresh taste.
• Garlic Cloves – Infuse the butter with a rich, aromatic flavor that complements the focaccia beautifully.
Each component plays a crucial role in creating that delicious homemade sourdough focaccia experience you won’t want to miss!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fluffy Garlic Butter Sourdough Focaccia
Step 1: Dough Preparation
In a large mixing bowl, combine your bubbly sourdough starter with approximately 2 cups of lukewarm water, mixing until fully dissolved. Gradually add about 4 cups of bread flour and 1.5 teaspoons of salt. Stir until a shaggy dough forms, then let it rest covered for 30 minutes. This resting period allows the flour to hydrate fully, creating a better texture for your sourdough focaccia.
Step 2: Strengthening the Dough
After the resting period, perform the stretch-and-fold technique by gently grabbing a portion of the dough from one side and folding it over to the other. Repeat this motion for about 15-20 times, then cover the bowl and let the dough rest at room temperature for 8 hours, or until it has doubled in size. You’ll know it’s ready when it feels puffed and airy.
Step 3: Refrigeration
Once the dough has risen, cover it tightly with plastic wrap to keep it moisture-rich and transfer it to the refrigerator. Allow it to chill overnight for a minimum of 8 hours. This slow fermentation amplifies the tangy flavor of your sourdough focaccia, enhancing its overall taste and texture.
Step 4: Shaping Dough
On the second day, gather your tools and preheat your oven to 450°F. Drizzle a well-oiled baking pan with olive oil. Carefully transfer the cold dough onto the pan upside down, allowing the oiled side to face up. Gently pat it into a rectangular shape, taking care not to deflate all the air you’ve developed from the fermentation.
Step 5: Shaping Technique
Next, gently fold the edges of the dough toward the center, which helps build surface tension. Flip the dough over so that the top is smooth. This technique not only creates a beautiful presentation for your focaccia but also ensures that the dough rises evenly while baking.
Step 6: Final Proof
Cover the shaped dough loosely with a kitchen towel and let it rise at room temperature for about 4 hours. During this time, the dough should spread out and fill the pan. Watch for expansion, and once it has almost doubled and feels fluffy, it’s ready for the next step.
Step 7: Preheat Oven
With the dough proofed, ensure your oven is preheating to 450°F. This high temperature is crucial for achieving a golden-brown, crispy crust on your delectable sourdough focaccia. Prepare yourself for the mouthwatering aroma that will soon fill your kitchen.
Step 8: Dimpling
Before baking, drizzle olive oil generously over the surface of the dough. Using your fingertips, create dimples all over the focaccia, pressing down gently. This not only helps hold the topping but also creates that signature texture. Sprinkle it with fresh rosemary and finishing salt, enhancing the flavor with every bite.
Step 9: Baking
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake your sourdough focaccia for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye out for a beautiful golden-brown crust and a crisp sound when gently tapped. This visual cue ensures your bread is perfectly baked and ready for the final touches.
Step 10: Garlic Butter Topping
While your focaccia bakes, melt about ¼ cup of butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add minced garlic and chopped parsley, cooking for a brief moment until fragrant. Once the focaccia is baked, brush this aromatic mixture generously over the warm bread for an irresistible garlic butter finish.
Step 11: Cool & Serve
After baking, let the focaccia cool in the pan for about 30 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps retain moisture inside, ensuring each piece of your fluffy garlic butter sourdough focaccia is both soft and flavorful. Serve warm and enjoy every delightful bite!
Make Ahead Options
These Fluffy Garlic Butter Sourdough Focaccia loaves are a dream for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ingredients and refrigerating it overnight—this enhances the tangy flavor of your sourdough focaccia. After the initial rise, cover the dough tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the fridge; it will stay fresh and moist. When it’s time to bake, simply shape the dough, let it proof for about 4 hours at room temperature until fluffy, then follow the baking instructions. This way, you’ll have warm, delicious focaccia ready for your family with minimal last-minute effort!
What to Serve with Fluffy Garlic Butter Sourdough Focaccia
Imagine gathering around the table with delicious accompaniments that enhance your warm, aromatic focaccia experience.
- Creamy Tomato Soup: The tangy flavors of the focaccia pair beautifully with a rich tomato soup, creating a comforting classic.
- Arugula Salad: This peppery green salad adds a refreshing crunch to your meal, balancing the richness of the focaccia with a zesty vinaigrette.
- Charcuterie Board: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, and olives makes for an elegant spread that complements the doughy goodness of your focaccia.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized, these veggies not only introduce flavorful depth but also add a hearty texture to your meal.
- Bruschetta Topping: Top your focaccia with fresh tomatoes, basil, and balsamic drizzle for a burst of flavor that enhances the bread’s moistness.
- Sparkling White Wine: Crisp and refreshing, this wine pairs beautifully with the garlic and rosemary flavors in your sourdough focaccia, creating a delightful dining experience.
- Bathed in Garlic Butter: Enjoy the focaccia on its own as a standout performer with the irresistible richness from its buttery topping.
Elevate your dining experience by combining these pairings with your savoriness of homemade sourdough focaccia!
How to Store and Freeze Sourdough Focaccia
Room Temperature: Keep your focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. This keeps it fresh and preserves its delightful texture.
Freezer: Wrap the cooled focaccia tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating: To revive your sourdough focaccia, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm it for about 10-15 minutes. This restores its crispy crust and soft inside, making it feel freshly baked again.
Slicing: Consider slicing the focaccia before freezing to make individual servings easier to reheat and enjoy at any time!
Sourdough Focaccia Variations
Feel like making this recipe your own? Discover the delightful twists and substitutions that can elevate your sourdough focaccia!
- Herb-Infused: Add handfuls of fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil for a fragrant twist.
- Cheese-Filled: Sprinkle crumbled feta or mozzarella over the dough before the final proof for a gooey surprise.
- Veggie Delight: Top with cherry tomatoes, olives, or roasted bell peppers for a burst of color and flavor.
- Sweet Twist: Replace savory toppings with thinly sliced figs and a drizzle of honey for a sweet version.
- Spicy Kick: Kick up the heat by adding red pepper flakes or jalapeño slices atop the dough before baking.
- Vegan Option: Use a dairy-free butter substitute in the garlic topping for a deliciously vegan focaccia.
- Seed Topping: Top with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or sunflower seeds for added crunch and nutrition.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into the olive oil drizzle for a depth of flavor that surprises the palate.
Embrace your creativity with this sourdough focaccia, and feel free to explore variations that resonate with your taste. If you’re interested in more ways to customize bread recipes, check out our guide on baking with different flours or dive into our collection of savory topping ideas!
Tips for the Best Sourdough Focaccia
• Proper Starter: Ensure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active; this is key for the tangy flavor and proper rise of your focaccia.
• Patience is Key: Don’t rush the resting and proofing times; monitor the dough’s size and texture instead of focusing strictly on timing for perfect results.
• Warm Environment: Keep the dough in a warm area while it rises; cold environments can inhibit the fermentation process and result in a denser bread.
• Oil Generously: Don’t skimp on the olive oil, both in the baking pan and drizzled atop the dough. This ensures a crispy crust and adds flavor to your sourdough focaccia.
• Dimpling Technique: Remember to dimple the dough before baking, as it helps to create those iconic pockets and makes room for the herbs and finishing salt.
Sourdough Focaccia Recipe FAQs
What type of sourdough starter should I use?
Absolutely use a bubbly and active sourdough starter with 100% hydration. This ensures the proper fermentation and tangy flavor, making your focaccia irresistibly delicious!
How long can I store leftover focaccia?
Store your sourdough focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Always check for freshness: if you see any dark spots or staleness, it’s best to discard it.
Can I freeze sourdough focaccia?
Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap the cooled focaccia tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
What if my dough isn’t rising properly?
If your dough isn’t rising, it could be too cold—try moving it to a warmer spot in your kitchen. You can also extend the proofing time; sometimes, a little more love (and time) does the trick!
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the garlic butter topping?
Very! You can substitute the butter with vegan butter or olive oil for the topping. It still provides that essential richness and flavor without the dairy if you have dietary considerations.
How can I enhance the flavor of my focaccia?
Feel free to experiment with different herbs or toppings! Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or various herbs like thyme or oregano before baking to customize your sourdough focaccia to your liking.
Mouthwatering Sourdough Focaccia You Can’t Resist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine sourdough starter with lukewarm water, mix until dissolved, then add bread flour and salt. Let rest for 30 minutes.
- Perform stretch-and-fold technique, then cover and let rise for 8 hours until doubled in size.
- Cover dough tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight for at least 8 hours.
- Preheat oven to 450°F. Drizzle baking pan with olive oil, transfer dough upside down, and shape into a rectangle.
- Fold the edges toward the center and flip the dough over. This builds surface tension.
- Cover dough and let rise for 4 hours until it spreads and nearly doubles.
- Preheat oven to 450°F. Ensure a high temperature for crispy crust.
- Drizzle olive oil on surface and create dimples with fingertips. Sprinkle with rosemary and finishing salt.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Melt butter, add garlic and parsley, and brush the mixture over warm focaccia after baking.
- Let cool for 30 minutes, slice, serve, and enjoy!
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