Let me tell you about my love affair with cinnamon focaccia! This sweet, fluffy bread is like a warm hug on a plate, bursting with that cozy cinnamon flavor that just makes everything feel right in the world. I remember the first time I tried it at a quaint little café while visiting a friend. The moment I took a bite, I was hooked! The soft texture paired with the sweetness of the cinnamon and sugars was simply divine. It’s perfect for breakfast, a delightful snack, or even dessert if you’re feeling a bit cheeky. Trust me, once you make this cinnamon focaccia at home, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen. You won’t just be baking bread; you’ll be creating memories filled with warmth and sweetness!
Ingredients for Cinnamon Focaccia
Gather these simple ingredients to whip up the most delightful cinnamon focaccia you’ve ever tasted!
- 4 cups all-purpose flour – This is the base of your focaccia, giving it that wonderful fluffy texture.
- 1 cup warm water – Make sure it’s warm but not hot; we want to activate the yeast without cooking it!
- 2 tablespoons sugar – This little bit of sweetness helps the yeast thrive and adds flavor.
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast – The magic ingredient that will make your dough rise beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – A must for enhancing the overall flavor of the bread.
- 1/4 cup olive oil – This adds richness and helps create that lovely golden crust.
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon – The star of the show! This gives your focaccia its warm, aromatic flavor.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar – For a deeper sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar – Balances the flavors and adds a lovely sweetness to the topping.
- 1/4 cup melted butter – Brush this on before baking to give the focaccia a rich, buttery finish!
How to Prepare Cinnamon Focaccia
Alright, let’s get our hands a little floury and dive right into making this cinnamon focaccia! It’s easier than you might think, and I promise the results will be heavenly. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to baking a delicious sweet bread that fills your kitchen with the most amazing aroma!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by combining warm water, sugar, and instant yeast in a bowl. Give it a little stir and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it’s frothy. This means your yeast is happy and ready to work its magic!
- Next, add the all-purpose flour, salt, and olive oil into the bowl. Mix everything together until a dough starts to form. Don’t worry if it’s a bit sticky; that’s totally normal!
- Now, it’s time to knead! Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s smooth and elastic. It’s a great workout, too!
- Place your dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size. This is when all the magic happens!
- Once risen, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough into a rectangle and transfer it to a baking sheet.
- Brush that beautiful melted butter over the top, and then mix your cinnamon and both types of sugar together. Sprinkle this sweet mixture generously over the dough.
- Now, for a little fun—use your fingers to create dimples all over the dough. This helps it hold onto all that delicious topping!
- Finally, pop it into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until it’s golden brown and your kitchen smells like a cinnamon paradise. Enjoy the anticipation!
Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before diving in. You’ve just made cinnamon focaccia, and it’s going to be amazing!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Fluffiness: This cinnamon focaccia is light and airy, making each bite a delight!
- Perfectly Sweet: The combination of cinnamon, brown sugar, and granulated sugar creates a heavenly sweetness that’s just right.
- Versatile Treat: Whether you enjoy it warm for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even as a dessert, this bread fits any occasion!
- Aromatically Inviting: The enchanting smell of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen will have everyone flocking to the table!
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll feel like a baking pro in no time!
- Customizable: Feel free to add nuts, raisins, or even a drizzle of icing for a fun twist!
Tips for Success
Want to make sure your cinnamon focaccia turns out absolutely perfect? Here are my top tips that will help you nail it every time!
- Use Fresh Yeast: Always check the expiration date on your yeast! Fresh yeast ensures a great rise and fluffy texture. If you’re unsure, do the froth test with warm water and sugar—if it bubbles, you’re good to go!
- Warm Environment: When letting your dough rise, find a warm spot in your kitchen. If it’s too cold, the dough may not rise properly. You can even turn on your oven to the lowest setting for a few minutes, then turn it off and place the dough inside to rise!
- Knead Well: Don’t skimp on the kneading! Kneading for about 10 minutes builds the gluten structure, which is key for that lovely fluffy texture. It should feel smooth and elastic when you’re done.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the focaccia as it bakes. Once it’s golden brown, take it out! Overbaking can lead to a dry bread, and we definitely don’t want that.
- Let It Cool: After baking, let your focaccia cool for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to cut without falling apart.
- Have Fun with Toppings: Feel free to get creative! Add chopped nuts or raisins to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for an extra special flavor. You can even drizzle it with icing for a sweet finish!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a cinnamon focaccia that’ll impress friends and family alike. Happy baking!
Variations of Cinnamon Focaccia
One of the best things about cinnamon focaccia is its versatility! You can easily customize this delightful bread to suit your taste or to use up ingredients you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:
- Nuts Galore: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a lovely crunch and nutty flavor. They add a delightful texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft bread.
- Raisins or Dried Fruits: Toss in some raisins or dried cranberries for a burst of sweetness. They pair wonderfully with the cinnamon and sugar, adding a lovely chewiness to each bite.
- Spice It Up: Want to switch things up? Experiment with other spices like nutmeg or cardamom. Just a pinch can elevate the flavor profile and add a warm, aromatic twist.
- Apple Cinnamon: Fold in small chunks of fresh apples into the dough before rolling it out. The apples will soften while baking, creating a deliciously sweet and fruity focaccia.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent treat, drizzle some melted chocolate over the cooled focaccia. It adds a rich sweetness that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon flavor.
- Glazed Version: After baking, you can brush the focaccia with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk for a sweet finish that takes it to the next level!
Feel free to get creative and make this cinnamon focaccia your own. Each variation brings its own unique charm, making it a delightful experience every time you bake it!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delicious cinnamon focaccia, and now you’re wondering how to keep it fresh for those later cravings—great question! Storing it properly is key to maintaining that delightful texture and flavor.
First, let your cinnamon focaccia cool completely before storing. This prevents moisture from building up, which can make it soggy. Once it’s cool, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It’s best to keep it at room temperature if you plan to eat it within a couple of days. Trust me, it’ll stay soft and delicious!
If you’re looking to keep it for a longer time, you can freeze it. Just slice the focaccia first, then wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can grab just what you need without thawing the whole loaf. It’ll stay good in the freezer for up to two months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your cinnamon focaccia, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds to warm it up. If you want that fresh-baked feel, you can also reheat slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This will help restore that delightful fluffiness and make it taste like it’s just come out of the oven!
With these easy storage and reheating tips, you’ll always have a slice of warm, cinnamon goodness waiting for you. Enjoy every bite!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutrition of this delightful cinnamon focaccia! Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on typical ingredient values, so they might vary a little depending on your specific ingredients and portion sizes. Here’s what you can expect per slice:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 3g
This cinnamon focaccia is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a delightful addition to your meal. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast or as a sweet snack, it’ll fill you up with joy—just remember to savor every bite! Happy baking!
FAQ Section
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! If you want a nuttier flavor and a bit more nutrition, feel free to substitute some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Just keep in mind that the texture might be a bit denser, but it will still be delicious!
What can I use if I don’t have instant yeast?
No worries! You can use active dry yeast instead. Just remember to activate it in warm water with a bit of sugar for about 10 minutes before using it in the recipe. This ensures your yeast is lively and ready to help your dough rise!
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Definitely! To make it vegan, you can substitute melted butter with a plant-based alternative, and use a non-dairy milk instead of regular milk if you choose to add any. The rest of the ingredients should be fine as they are!
What’s the best way to serve cinnamon focaccia?
Oh, there are so many delightful ways! You can enjoy it warm right out of the oven, or serve it at room temperature. It’s fantastic with a cup of coffee or tea, and you can even spread a little cream cheese or butter on top for an extra treat!
How can I tell when my focaccia is done baking?
You’ll know it’s ready when it’s beautifully golden brown on top and when you tap the bottom, it sounds hollow. This means that the inside is cooked perfectly. Trust your senses—your kitchen will smell divine when it’s just about done!
For more tips on baking bread, check out King Arthur Baking.
For additional recipes, you might enjoy Classic Vanilla Sponge Cake or Coffee and Walnut Cake.
Imprimer
Cinnamon Focaccia: 7 Steps to Heavenly Sweetness
- Temps Total: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Rendement: 12 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Végétarien
Description
Cinnamon focaccia is a sweet, fluffy bread infused with cinnamon flavor, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Ingrédients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover. Let it rise for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle and place on a baking sheet.
- Brush melted butter over the dough.
- Mix cinnamon and sugars, then sprinkle over the dough.
- Use your fingers to create dimples in the dough.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
- Use fresh yeast for best results.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Try adding nuts or raisins for extra flavor.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 25 minutes
- Catégorie: Bread
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sucre: 8g
- De Sodium: 150mg
- La graisse: 7g
- Graisses Saturées: 1g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 5g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 27g
- La fibre: 1g
- La protéine: 3g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 5mg
Mots-clés: cinnamon focaccia, sweet bread, Italian bread, breakfast bread