Homemade Italian Focaccia (Golden, Olive-Oil-Rich, and Worth Every Minute)

January 19, 2026

There’s something about focaccia baking in the oven that makes a kitchen feel instantly warm and welcoming.

This is the kind of bread that doesn’t need much explaining — soft and airy inside, golden on the outside, and generously brushed with really good olive oil so every bite has flavor. The dimples hold little pools of oil, the top gets just lightly crisp, and the inside stays tender and pillowy.

I love this bread served warm, torn by hand, dipped in olive oil, or piled high with whatever’s on the counter. It’s perfect with soup, alongside a salad, or just eaten standing at the counter while it’s still warm (which happens more often than I’d like to admit).

If you’ve ever thought homemade bread felt intimidating, this is the one to start with. Focaccia is forgiving, flavorful, and incredibly rewarding — especially when you use a really good olive oil.

Homemade Italian Focaccia Bread

Soft, golden Italian focaccia made with generous olive oil, lightly crisp on the outside and tender inside. Perfect for dipping, sharing, or enjoying on its own.

Author: https://shopevoo.com
Prep Time: 1 hours 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Category: Appetizers
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 cup warm water (not hot)
2½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
¼ cup of your preferred Olive Oil, plus more for the pan and finishing
Flaky sea salt, for topping
Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or oregano), optional

Directions

In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a soft dough forms.
Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Preheat oven to 425°F. Oil a baking sheet generously with olive oil.
Press dough into the pan, gently stretching to fit.
Use your fingers to dimple the dough all over. Drizzle generously with olive oil.
Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and fresh herbs, if using.
Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
Remove from oven and finish with another light drizzle of olive oil before serving.