If you’re looking to add a sweet, aromatic twist to your traditional focaccia, this cinnamon focaccia recipe is exactly what you need. With the perfect balance of soft bread and warm cinnamon sugar, it’s a treat that’s easy to make at home and sure to delight your taste buds.
Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or as a cozy snack, this cinnamon focaccia brings a touch of comfort and sweetness that’s hard to resist. You’ll love how simple the process is, even if you’re new to baking.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make with basic pantry ingredients.
- Soft, fluffy texture with a sweet cinnamon flavor.
- Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack.
- Great for sharing with family and friends.
- Can be customized with nuts or glaze if desired.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to make your cinnamon focaccia. They come together easily to create a deliciously sweet bread.
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping)
- Optional: coarse sugar or sliced almonds for garnish
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including rising time)
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: Approximately 280 per serving
How to Make Simple Cinnamon Focaccia
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Stir together to evenly distribute the cinnamon.
- Add the melted butter, vanilla extract, and yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- Punch down the dough and transfer it to the prepared pan. Gently stretch and press the dough to fill the pan evenly. Use your fingers to create dimples across the surface.
- Sprinkle the brown sugar and the 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar evenly over the top. Optionally, add sliced almonds or coarse sugar as garnish.
- Bake the focaccia for 23-25 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before slicing.
- Serve warm or at room temperature with a pat of butter or drizzle of honey if you like.
Tips for the Best Results
- Make sure your water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
- Knead the dough well to develop gluten for a soft, airy texture.
- Don’t skip the dimpling step; it helps create that classic focaccia look and texture.
- If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, increase the cinnamon by 1 teaspoon.
- Allow the focaccia to cool slightly before slicing to prevent crumbling.
Storage and Reheating
Store your cinnamon focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat, warm slices in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through. You can also toast slices lightly for a crisp edge with soft inside.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. Use the same amount but mix it directly with the flour instead of dissolving it in water first.
Is this focaccia bread vegan?
This recipe uses butter, so it is not vegan as written. You can substitute vegan butter or a neutral oil to make it vegan-friendly.
Can I add nuts or raisins to the dough?
Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or raisins, will give extra texture and flavor. Fold them in after kneading the dough.
What’s the best way to serve cinnamon focaccia?
Cinnamon focaccia is delicious on its own or served warm with butter, honey, or cream cheese. It also pairs nicely with coffee or tea for breakfast or dessert.
