Delicious topped with herbs, garlic, or vegetables
Perfect for dipping, sandwiches, or serving alongside meals
Requires minimal shaping compared to other breads
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
active sourdough starter
warm water
all-purpose flour or bread flour
olive oil
salt
honey or sugar
fresh rosemary or herbs (optional)
flaky sea salt (optional)
Directions
In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter, warm water, honey or sugar, and olive oil. Mix until well combined.
Add the flour and salt to the mixture and stir until a sticky dough forms.
Cover the bowl and allow the dough to rest for about 20–30 minutes.
Perform a series of stretch-and-folds by gently pulling the dough from one side and folding it over itself. Repeat this process several times around the bowl.
Cover the dough and let it rise at room temperature for about 3–4 hours, or until it becomes puffy and expanded.
Generously coat a baking pan with olive oil.
Transfer the dough to the prepared pan and gently spread it out with your hands.
Cover the pan and allow the dough to rest again for about 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Drizzle olive oil over the dough and use your fingers to press dimples across the surface.
Sprinkle with rosemary, flaky sea salt, or other toppings if desired.
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the focaccia is golden brown.
Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 8 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes Rest time: 20–30 minutes First rise: 3–4 hours Second rise: 1 hour Bake time: 20–25 minutes
Total time: Approximately 5 hours 30 minutes
Variations
Garlic herb focaccia Add minced garlic and mixed herbs like thyme and oregano before baking.
Cherry tomato focaccia Press halved cherry tomatoes into the dough before baking for a juicy topping.
Olive focaccia Scatter sliced olives over the top for a Mediterranean-style flavor.
Caramelized onion focaccia Top the dough with caramelized onions for a sweet and savory variation.
Cheese focaccia Sprinkle grated parmesan or mozzarella on top before baking.
Storage/Reheating
Room temperature Store focaccia in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, though the texture may become slightly firmer.
Freezer Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating Warm slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–8 minutes or toast lightly.
FAQs
What is sourdough focaccia?
Sourdough focaccia is a variation of traditional focaccia made using sourdough starter instead of commercial yeast.
Can I use sourdough discard?
Yes, sourdough discard can be used, though the rise may be slightly slower.
Why is focaccia dimpled before baking?
Dimples help distribute olive oil evenly and prevent the dough from puffing unevenly.
Can I make the dough overnight?
Yes, the dough can be refrigerated overnight for a slower fermentation and deeper flavor.
Why is my focaccia dense?
This can happen if the dough didn’t rise long enough or if too much flour was added.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but it’s best to replace only part of the flour to maintain a light texture.
How do I get a crispy crust?
Use plenty of olive oil in the pan and bake at a high temperature.
Can I add vegetables on top?
Yes, vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and peppers work well.
Do I need a stand mixer?
No, focaccia dough is simple and can easily be mixed by hand.
Why is my dough very sticky?
Focaccia dough is naturally high-hydration, which helps create its airy texture.
Conclusion
Easiest Sourdough Focaccia is a simple yet incredibly flavorful bread that showcases the unique taste of sourdough. With its airy crumb, crisp edges, and customizable toppings, it’s a versatile bread that fits any meal or occasion. Once you try making this focaccia at home, it will quickly become a favorite in your baking routine
This Easiest Sourdough Focaccia is a soft, airy Italian-style bread made with sourdough starter and simple pantry ingredients. With its golden crispy crust, fluffy interior, and signature olive oil dimples topped with herbs and sea salt, this homemade focaccia is packed with flavor. Perfect for sandwiches, dipping in olive oil, or serving alongside meals, this beginner-friendly sourdough focaccia recipe is both simple and delicious.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:20–25 minutes
Total Time:5 hours 20 minutes
Yield:8 servings
Category:Side Dish
Method:Baking
Cuisine:Italian-Inspired
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
½ cup active sourdough starter
1 ¼ cups warm water
3 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour
3 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for the pan and topping)
1 ½ teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon honey or sugar
Fresh rosemary or herbs (optional)
Flaky sea salt (optional)
Instructions
½ cup active sourdough starter
1 ¼ cups warm water
3 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour
3 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for the pan and topping)
1 ½ teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon honey or sugar
Fresh rosemary or herbs (optional)
Flaky sea salt (optional)
Notes
Focaccia dough is naturally high-hydration and sticky, which helps create its airy crumb.Use plenty of olive oil in the pan to create the signature crispy crust.Letting the dough ferment slowly overnight in the refrigerator can deepen the flavor.Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano work beautifully as toppings.
