Small Batch Focaccia Bread: Perfect for Every Occasion

There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen. If you’ve ever wanted to enjoy homemade bread but felt intimidated by large recipes or complex techniques, this Small Batch Focaccia Bread is just what you need. Perfectly soft, fluffy, and flavored with herbs and olive oil, this bread is a game-changer for dinner parties, cozy nights in, or simply treating yourself to a bakery-worthy creation.

With this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to make delicious focaccia bread in smaller portions, perfect for when you don’t need a large loaf.

Why You’ll Love Small Batch Focaccia Bread

Small batch focaccia is ideal for so many reasons. It’s manageable for beginners, requires minimal ingredients, and is just the right size for a small family or an intimate gathering. The combination of a crispy golden crust, airy interior, and savory herb-infused olive oil will have you making this recipe on repeat.

Ingredients for Small Batch Focaccia Bread

Here’s what you’ll need to create your homemade focaccia.

Herbed Olive Oil

Ingredient	Amount
Water	1 tablespoon
Olive oil	1 tablespoon
Fresh herbs (chopped)	1 teaspoon (rosemary, thyme, oregano, or a mix)
Dried herbs (optional)	½ teaspoon

Focaccia Bread

Ingredient	Amount
Warm water (105–115°F)	½ cup
Dry active yeast	2 ¼ teaspoons
Sugar	½ teaspoon
All-purpose flour	1 ¼ cups
Salt	½ teaspoon
Olive oil	1 tablespoon
Additional olive oil	1–1 ½ tablespoons
Coarse salt	For topping
Fresh rosemary	For topping

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Make the Herbed Olive Oil

• In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of water, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and 1 teaspoon of fresh herbs (or ½ teaspoon of dried herbs).
• Let the mixture sit while you prepare the bread to allow the flavors to infuse.

2. Proof the Yeast

• In a separate bowl, combine ½ cup of warm water (105–115°F) with the dry active yeast and sugar.
• Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy and bubbly. This step ensures the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.

3. Mix the Dough

• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
• Add the proofed yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a sticky dough forms.

4. Let the Dough Rise

• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel.
• Allow the dough to rise in a warm spot for 30 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.

5. Prepare the Pan

• Pour 1–1 ½ tablespoons of olive oil into a 9×7-inch sheet pan and brush it evenly to coat the surface. You’ll want a generous amount of oil to ensure a crispy crust.

6. Stretch the Dough

• Transfer the dough to the prepared pan and gently stretch it to fit the pan. If the dough resists and springs back, cover it and let it rest for 5 minutes. This relaxes the gluten, making it easier to stretch.

7. Let the Dough Rise Again

• Cover the pan with plastic wrap and allow the dough to rise for another 30 minutes.

8. Dimple the Dough

• Preheat your oven to 400°F.
• Dampen your fingers with water and press into the dough to create dimples across the surface.

9. Add the Herbed Olive Oil

• Drizzle the herbed olive oil over the dough, letting it fill the dimples. Sprinkle coarse salt and fresh rosemary on top for extra flavor.

10. Bake

• Bake the focaccia in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

11. Cool and Serve

• Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack. This step keeps the bottom crispy. Slice, serve, and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Small Batch Focaccia

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs elevate the flavor, but dried herbs work in a pinch.
• Measure Warm Water Precisely: Too hot or too cold water can kill the yeast or prevent proper activation.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the bread as it nears the 15-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
• Experiment with Toppings: Add thinly sliced garlic, cherry tomatoes, or olives for added variety.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount (Per Serving Approx.)
Calories	~150
Protein	~4g
Carbohydrates	~20g
Fat	~6g
Fiber	~1g

Creative Variations

• Garlic-Lover’s Focaccia: Add minced garlic to the olive oil mixture for a bold garlic flavor.
• Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle shredded parmesan or mozzarella over the dough before baking.
• Sweet and Savory: Drizzle honey and add figs or caramelized onions for a unique flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free focaccia.

Serving Suggestions

• With Soup: Serve alongside tomato basil soup or creamy potato soup for a comforting meal.
• As a Snack: Enjoy it on its own with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.
• For Sandwiches: Slice the focaccia horizontally and use it as sandwich bread.

FAQs About Small Batch Focaccia Bread

1. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply ensure your sugar and flour are vegan-certified, and you’re good to go.

2. What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

Dried herbs work just as well. Use ½ teaspoon of dried herbs for every teaspoon of fresh herbs.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

4. Can I freeze focaccia?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven before serving.

5. Why didn’t my dough rise?

Ensure your yeast is fresh and that your water was warm but not too hot (105–115°F).

6. Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Simply double the ingredient amounts and use a larger pan to accommodate the dough.

Why You Should Make Small Batch Focaccia Bread Today

Homemade focaccia bread brings a sense of accomplishment and warmth to your kitchen. With its crispy crust, fluffy center, and herbaceous flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion. Best of all, this small batch recipe makes it accessible for anyone, no matter your experience level.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and treat yourself to the magic of Small Batch Focaccia Bread. Your taste buds will thank you!

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