There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen. This sourdough focaccia recipe is soft, airy, and bursting with flavor — perfect for sandwiches, dipping in olive oil, or serving alongside your favorite meals. With its golden crust, tender interior, and hints of olive oil and herbs, this recipe will help you master the art of homemade focaccia, even if you’re a beginner.
Whether you’re in the United States, United Kingdom, or Canada, this recipe brings the charm of Italian baking to your home, making your meals instantly more special.
H2: Ingredients You’ll Need
For this easy and delicious sourdough focaccia recipe, gather the following ingredients:
For the Dough:
1 cup (240g) active sourdough starter
1½ cups (360ml) warm water
4 cups (500g) all-purpose or bread flour
2 teaspoons salt
3 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
For the Topping:
Coarse sea salt
Fresh rosemary sprigs (or your favorite herbs)
Optional: garlic cloves, cherry tomatoes, olives
💡 Tip: Make sure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly for the best rise.
H2: Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to make the perfect sourdough focaccia at home:
Step 1: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter and warm water. Stir in the flour and salt until it forms a sticky dough.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
Step 3: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise at room temperature for 3–4 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Focaccia
Transfer the dough to a greased baking sheet. Gently stretch it into a rectangle or oval shape. Use your fingers to create dimples all over the surface — this is key to focaccia’s signature texture.
Step 5: Add Toppings
Drizzle generously with olive oil, sprinkle with coarse sea salt, and scatter rosemary, garlic, cherry tomatoes, or olives on top as desired.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the dough lightly and let it rise for another 30–45 minutes. This gives it a soft, airy texture inside.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the focaccia for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp on the edges. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
💡 Pro Tip: For extra flavor, drizzle with a little more olive oil immediately after baking.
H2: Serving Suggestions
This sourdough focaccia is incredibly versatile:
Serve it with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.
Use it as a base for sandwiches or paninis.
Pair it with soups, stews, or salads for a complete meal.
Cut into small squares for a party appetizer.
H2: Variations to Try
Make this sourdough focaccia recipe your own with these creative ideas:
Cheesy Focaccia: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan on top before baking.
Garlic and Herb: Add minced garlic and mixed herbs for a fragrant twist.
Olive and Tomato: Press black or green olives and cherry tomatoes into the dough.
Sweet Version: Try a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of sea salt after baking for a sweet-savory combo.
H2: Tips for Perfect Focaccia
Use a baking sheet or a cast-iron skillet for even heat distribution.
Don’t skip the dimpling — it holds the olive oil and toppings beautifully.
Ensure your sourdough starter is active for the best rise and texture.
Let the dough rest and rise properly; patience is key to soft, airy bread.
Experiment with toppings to match your taste — focaccia is highly customizable!
Conclusion
This sourdough focaccia recipe is a simple way to bring homemade Italian bread into your kitchen. Soft on the inside, golden and crispy on the outside, and full of flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion — from a weeknight dinner to a special gathering.
So, grab your sourdough starter and try this sourdough focaccia recipe today! You’ll enjoy the satisfaction of freshly baked bread that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. 🍞✨