Name: Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam for a Brunch Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 102 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Warm Water (Temperature 105-115°F); 2 tablespoons Sugar (Can substitute with honey); 2 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast (Ensure it's fresh); 2 cups Bread Flour (High-protein option preferred); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour; 1 teaspoon Salt (Essential for flavor); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Can substitute with melted butter); 1 cup Raspberry Jam (Can swap with any fruit jam); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Mix with additional flavorings if desired); 2-4 tablespoons Milk (Use almond milk or water as alternatives)

In the sunshine-filled mornings of Italy, bakeries fill the air with the sweet aroma of freshly baked bread. My latest recipe, Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam, perfectly captures that essence, bringing a slice of Italian tradition right to your kitchen. This delightful treat marries a fluffy, airy dough with luscious raspberry jam swirls, resulting in a comforting dish that’s just as suitable for breakfast as it is for dessert. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, which means fewer hours in the kitchen and more time to savor each bite with your loved ones. Imagine pulling a warm, golden focaccia from the oven, its surface glistening with a sugary glaze, inviting you to dive in. Don’t you just want to take a bite right now?

Why is Sweet Focaccia Irresistible?

Homemade Happiness: There’s something deeply satisfying about creating your own sweet focaccia at home; the aroma alone is enough to get everyone excited!
Deliciously Versatile: Enjoy it at breakfast, lunch, or as a delightful dessert; this focaccia adapts to any occasion. Pair it with a frothy cappuccino or a sweet tea and transform your meal!
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: It’s sure to impress your family and guests, making it a perfect centerpiece for brunch gatherings—just like our Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken that everyone devours!
Sweet Twists: Feeling adventurous? Experiment with different jams or add a citrusy zing with lemon zest to customize your focaccia!
Simple Steps: With just a few easy steps, a delightful treat emerges from your kitchen; who knew indulgence could be this simple?

Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam Ingredients

For the Dough
• Warm Water – Activates yeast; ensure temperature is 105-115°F for best results.
• Sugar – Feeds the yeast to bloom; honey can be used as a delightful substitute.
• Active Dry Yeast – The key leavening agent; check it’s fresh for optimal rise.
• Bread Flour – Provides structure and chewiness; a high-protein option is preferred.
• All-Purpose Flour – Softens texture, making the dough light and airy.
• Salt – Enhances flavor; an essential ingredient for balance.
• Olive Oil – Adds richness; also crucial for proper hydration. Substitute with melted butter if desired.

For the Filling and Glaze
• Raspberry Jam – Adds sweetness and flavor; feel free to swap with any fruit jam!
• Powdered Sugar – For the glaze; mix with additional flavorings like vanilla for extra oomph.
• Milk – Adjusts the frosting consistency; almond milk or water are suitable alternatives.

This sweet focaccia with raspberry jam is a fantastic way to elevate your brunch game or satisfy your sweet tooth!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam

Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a stand mixer, combine 1 cup of warm water (temp between 105-115°F) and 2 tablespoons of sugar, stirring until dissolved. Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast and let it sit for about 5 minutes, until it becomes bubbly and frothy—this indicates that your yeast is alive and ready to help create your Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
While waiting for the yeast, in a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of bread flour, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Once the yeast is active, add the dry mixture to the stand mixer equipped with a dough hook. Mix on low speed until a sticky dough forms, which should take around 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is well combined.

Step 3: First Rise
Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil and transfer the dough into it, rolling the dough around so it’s lightly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size. This step is critical for achieving that airy, fluffy texture in your Sweet Focaccia.

Step 4: Prepare for Shaping
After the dough has risen, grease a 9×13 metal pan with olive oil. Gently transfer the dough onto the prepared pan, folding it lightly to maintain its airy structure. Cover the pan with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise again for another 30 minutes to 1 hour—watch for it to puff slightly, indicating it’s ready for the next step.

Step 5: Dimple and Fill
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Once the dough has risen, use your fingers to gently poke holes all over its surface, which creates the perfect dimples for the raspberry jam. Spoon the jam into each dimple, ensuring generous amounts to provide a sweet filling that tantalizes the taste buds when you bite into the focaccia.

Step 6: Bake the Focaccia
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake your Sweet Focaccia for 18-22 minutes, or until it turns a lovely golden brown. Keep an eye on the bread towards the end; it should have a light crust on the outside while remaining soft inside. Once done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.

Step 7: Glaze for Perfection
While the focaccia cools, prepare the glaze by mixing 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-4 tablespoons of milk until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency. Once your Sweet Focaccia has cooled enough to handle, poke a few more holes in the top and drizzle the glaze generously over the surface, creating a beautiful finish that adds sweetness and a delightful shine.

What to Serve with Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam

Imagine hosting a cozy brunch, and the air is filled with warmth, laughter, and the delectable aroma of fresh bread. It’s time to round out that experience with some perfect pairings!

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Though unconventional, their buttery richness contrasts beautifully with the sweet focaccia, making every bite exciting.
Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh berries and citrus adds a refreshing zing that complements the raspberry jam delightfully, bringing balance to the meal.
Whipped Ricotta Toast: Slather on some whipped ricotta with a drizzle of honey for a smooth, creamy pairing that enhances the focaccia’s sweetness.
Iced Coffee: Bold, refreshing coffee mellows the sweetness of the focaccia, creating a delightful contrast that pairs well with brunch conversations.
Savory Quiche: A slice of cheesy, savory quiche introduces a hearty element to your spread, perfect alongside the lightness of the focaccia.
Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola and fruit, this creamy treat introduces a satisfying crunch and lovely texture to your meal.
Herbal Tea: The floral notes of mint or chamomile complement the sweet, fruity flavors and provide a soothing touch to your brunch.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For those who crave sweetness, these chewy cookies serve as a delightful end note, providing a familiar comfort alongside the focaccia.
Caramelized Peaches: The warm, sweet fruit brings an additional layer of flavor and elegance to your plate, ideal for a memorable brunch experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam make-ahead options are perfect for busy weekdays or impromptu brunches! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the recipe up to the first rise, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature and allow it to rise again for about 30 minutes before shaping it in the pan. Additionally, the baked focaccia can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature, maintaining its delightful softness. Just warm it slightly before serving to bring back that freshly-baked taste!

How to Store and Freeze Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam

Room Temperature: Enjoy your sweet focaccia fresh for the best taste. If leftover, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its soft texture.

Fridge: You can refrigerate your focaccia if you prefer a longer shelf life; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to avoid drying out. It will stay fresh for about 5 days.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap the focaccia in foil or plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw gently at room temperature or reheat in the oven.

Reheating: For the best experience, reheat leftover focaccia in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore its warmth and delightful texture.

Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam Variations

Feel free to unleash your inner chef and customize this delightful recipe as your taste buds desire!

Jam Swap: Replace raspberry jam with peach or cherry jam for a delightful twist in flavor. The possibilities are endless when you use what you love!
Zesty Addition: Add lemon zest to the dough or glaze to elevate tangy notes. It brightens every bite, making your focaccia even more refreshing!
Chocolate Delight: Consider integrating chocolate chips into the dough for a sweet surprise. Chocolate and raspberry are a match made in heaven, perfect for dessert lovers!
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like rosemary or basil into the dough for a savory-sweet experience. The aromatic partnership will take this bread to another level!
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts, like walnuts or almonds, over the top before baking. They add a delightful crunch and an earthy flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness.
Dough Variants: Experiment with using a combination of whole wheat flour for a heartier focaccia. It adds depth and a nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste!
Texture Twists: Top your focaccia with coarse sea salt before baking. This will create a contrast that enhances the sweetness and overall flavor experience.
Spice it Up: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze for a cozy warmth, transforming your sweet focaccia into a seasonal delight, reminiscent of autumn treats.

Don’t forget that every delicious slice can be even better with a wonderful pairing—like enjoying it with our Sweet Potato Breakfast or a warm cup of coffee while soaking in those inviting aromas!

Expert Tips for Sweet Focaccia

Yeast Check: Ensure your active dry yeast is fresh; if it doesn’t bubble after activation, it’s best to start over for a successful rise.

Dough Hydration: Be generous with olive oil to maintain moisture; neglecting this can lead to a dry focaccia.

Dimpling Technique: Don’t skimp on dimpling the dough—this step is crucial for flavor absorption and the right texture in your Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam.

Proper Baking: Keep an eye on baking time; a golden crust is what you’re aiming for, but an overbaked focaccia can lose its delightful softness.

Glaze Timing: Allow the focaccia to cool slightly before glazing; this ensures the icing doesn’t melt away and creates a lovely finish perfect for brunch.

Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam Recipe FAQs

What type of raspberries should I use for the jam?
You can use fresh or frozen raspberries for the jam filling. If using fresh, look for plump, bright berries with no dark spots. Frozen works just as well; just make sure to thaw and drain excess water before using.

How should I store leftover sweet focaccia?
For optimal freshness, store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, wrap it in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for an additional 5 days, although it may dry out a bit.

Can I freeze sweet focaccia, and how do I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze your focaccia, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Place it in a freezer bag and it can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warm.

What can I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough hasn’t risen after the first hour, ensure that your yeast is fresh by checking if it bubbles when activated. If it doesn’t, start over with a new yeast batch. Make sure your dough is in a warm environment, around 75°F to 80°F, to help the rising process.

Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
This sweet focaccia can be adapted for various dietary needs. If you’re dealing with gluten intolerance, consider using a gluten-free flour blend designed for bread. For a dairy-free version, simply substitute the milk in the glaze with almond milk or water. Always be mindful of potential allergens, especially if serving to guests!

What flavor variations can I try with the focaccia?
The possibilities are endless! You can swap out the raspberry jam for any fruit filling like strawberry or blueberry. Adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough enhances the flavor beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of chocolate chips can provide a delightful sweet twist that’s sure to please chocolate lovers!