We’re excited to share a delightful twist on two classic favorites with our Apple Pie Focaccia recipe. This unique creation combines the warm, comforting flavors of apple pie with the soft, airy texture of focaccia bread. It’s perfect for anyone craving a sweet treat that’s a little different from the usual dessert options.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Apple Pie Focaccia, we’ll carefully combine ingredients that balance the airy focaccia bread with the rich flavors of classic apple pie. Below are the essentials for the dough, filling, and finishing touches.
For the Focaccia Dough
We start with a soft and slightly sweet dough that provides the ideal base for our unique dessert.
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (105°F–110°F)
- 2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
For the Apple Pie Filling
Our filling combines tart and sweet apples with warm spices to capture that iconic apple pie taste.
- 3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar, packed
- 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
For the Topping and Glaze
The finishing touches add a golden sheen and a sweet, crisp texture.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Coarse sugar | 2 tbsp | Sprinkle on top for crunch |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tbsp, melted | Brush over crust before baking |
| Powdered sugar | ½ cup | For glaze |
| Milk | 2 tbsp | To thin glaze |
| Vanilla extract | ½ tsp | Flavor glaze |
With these ingredients ready, we’re set to transform simple elements into a deliciously unique Apple Pie Focaccia.
Equipment Needed
To craft the perfect Apple Pie Focaccia, having the right equipment streamlines the process and ensures consistent results. Below is a detailed list of the essential tools we’ll use throughout this recipe.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | For combining dough and apple filling |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Precise measurement of dry and wet ingredients |
| Stand Mixer with Dough Hook (optional) | Efficient kneading of soft focaccia dough |
| Pastry Brush | Applying melted butter and glaze |
| Large Baking Sheet (preferably rimmed) | Baking the focaccia evenly with space for rising |
| Parchment Paper | Prevents sticking and helps with clean-up |
| Sharp Knife or Pastry Cutter | Slicing apples thinly for even cooking |
| Cooling Rack | Allows focaccia to cool evenly |
| Small Mixing Bowl | Mixing powdered sugar glaze |
Tip: If a stand mixer is unavailable, we recommend kneading dough by hand on a clean floured surface. The tactile control helps develop the perfect soft texture for our focaccia base.
By gathering this equipment before starting, we ensure smooth preparation and can focus on achieving the delightful balance of flavors and textures unique to this Apple Pie Focaccia creation.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create our unique Apple Pie Focaccia that marries the best of sweet apple pie flavors with the airy focaccia texture. Each stage builds flavor and structure for a deliciously memorable treat.
Preparing the Focaccia Dough
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, stir 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast into 1 ½ cups warm water (105°F to 110°F). Add 1 tablespoon sugar and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon salt and 2 tablespoons sugar.
- Combine wet and dry: Pour the yeast mixture and ¼ cup olive oil into the flour mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon or dough hook attachment until the dough starts to come together.
- Knead the dough: Knead for 8–10 minutes by hand or 5–6 minutes using a stand mixer until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly sticky.
- First rise: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1 ½ hours or until doubled in size.
Making the Apple Pie Filling
- Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and thinly slice 4 cups mixed tart and sweet apples (such as Granny Smith and Fuji).
- Mix filling ingredients: In a bowl, combine sliced apples with:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Toss well: Stir until apples are evenly coated with the spice and sugar mixture. Set aside to macerate and thicken slightly.
Assembling the Apple Pie Focaccia
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly brush with olive oil.
- Shape the dough: Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to the prepared pan. Using your fingers, gently stretch and press the dough to fit the pan evenly. It should be about ½ inch thick.
- Add apple filling: Spread the prepared apple mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Create dimples: Using your fingertips, gently press dimples into the dough around the apples to resemble traditional focaccia texture.
- Final glaze: Brush the exposed dough edges with 2 tablespoons melted butter and sprinkle 2 tablespoons coarse sugar over the entire focaccia for a sweet crunch.
Baking the Focaccia
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat oven | 375°F (190°C) | — | Ensure fully heated before baking |
| Bake focaccia | 375°F (190°C) | 30–35 minutes | Bake until golden brown and apples are tender |
| Cool on rack | Room temp | 10 minutes | Before glazing |
- Bake the Apple Pie Focaccia: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Look for a golden brown crust and bubbly apple filling.
- Cool and glaze: Remove from oven and cool for about 10 minutes on a wire rack.
- Prepare glaze: Whisk together ½ cup powdered sugar, 1 to 2 tablespoons milk, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.
- Drizzle glaze: Drizzle the glaze over the warm focaccia for a luscious final touch.
By following these steps attentively, we ensure the perfect balance of sweet apple pie aroma and the characteristic soft, airy focaccia crumb.
Serving Suggestions
Our Apple Pie Focaccia shines when paired with complementary flavors and textures that elevate its sweet and airy profile. Here are some of our favorite ways to serve this unique dessert focaccia:
- Warm with Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve slices of the focaccia slightly warm alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the hot bread and cold ice cream creates a delightful experience.
- Drizzle with Caramel Sauce: Enhance the apple pie spices by drizzling rich caramel sauce over each slice. The buttery, sweet caramel complements the apple filling and adds depth to the dish.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: For a simple presentation, lightly dust the cooled focaccia with powdered sugar. This adds visual appeal and an extra touch of sweetness.
- Pair with Spiced Tea or Coffee: Accompany the focaccia with a warm cup of chai tea, cinnamon-spiced coffee, or a fragrant herbal blend. These beverages echo the warm spices in the apple filling and balance the sweetness nicely.
- Add Whipped Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream or tangy Greek yogurt balances the sugar while boosting creaminess.
| Serving Style | Recommended Accompaniments | Flavor Profile Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Warm with Vanilla Ice Cream | Vanilla Ice Cream | Temperature contrast, creamy-sweet |
| Drizzle with Caramel Sauce | Homemade or Store-bought Caramel | Enhances buttery, sweet notes |
| Dust with Powdered Sugar | Powdered Sugar | Visual appeal, subtle sweetness |
| Pair with Spiced Tea or Coffee | Chai, Cinnamon Coffee, Herbal Tea | Resonates with warm spices, balances sweetness |
| Add Whipped Cream or Yogurt | Lightly Sweetened Whipped Cream or Greek Yogurt | Creamy texture, tangy balance |
Pro tip: Serve the focaccia slightly warm to bring out the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg, making every bite fragrant and comforting. Store any leftovers wrapped tightly to maintain freshness and reheat gently in the oven before serving.
Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy our Apple Pie Focaccia effortlessly, planning ahead can save us time while preserving its fresh flavors and delightful texture. Here are our essential make-ahead tips to keep this sweet treat at its best:
Prepare the Dough in Advance
We can mix and knead the focaccia dough up to 24 hours before baking. After the first rise, punch down the dough, lightly oil it, and store it covered in the refrigerator. This slow fermentation enhances the flavor and gives the dough a more complex aroma.
When ready to bake:
- Remove dough from fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes.
- Proceed with shaping, adding apple filling, and baking as usual.
Make the Apple Pie Filling Ahead
The apple pie filling can be cooked and cooled in advance. Store it tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This step lets the spices meld, intensifying the warm cinnamon and nutmeg notes.
Reheat gently or use cold:
- Reheat on the stove over low heat if needed.
- Alternatively, spread the filling chilled for a more textured contrast in the final focaccia.
Assemble and Refrigerate Before Baking
For added convenience, we can assemble the entire Apple Pie Focaccia on the baking sheet, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight (up to 12 hours). When we are ready to bake:
- Allow the focaccia to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Bake following the recipe’s directions directly from the fridge.
Storage and Reheating of Leftovers
| Storage Method | Duration | Reheating Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerate (airtight) | 3-4 days | Warm in oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes to refresh crispness |
| Freeze (wrapped well) | Up to 2 months | Thaw overnight in fridge, then reheat in oven |
Pro Tip:
“Wrap leftovers in aluminum foil before reheating. This locks in moisture, creating a soft, tender crumb while maintaining the focaccia’s iconic golden crust.”
By using these make-ahead strategies, we ensure a stress-free preparation and maximum enjoyment of our Apple Pie Focaccia Recipe whenever the craving hits.
Storage and Leftover Guidelines
To keep our Apple Pie Focaccia fresh and flavorful, proper storage is essential. Here’s how we recommend storing and handling leftovers to enjoy every bite.
Refrigeration
Wrap the focaccia tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This prevents the bread from drying out and preserves the apple pie filling’s natural moisture and spices.
Freezing
For longer storage, freezing is ideal. Wrap the focaccia securely in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
Reheating Tips
To reheat and restore the focaccia’s delightful texture:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove any plastic wrap but keep foil if used.
- Warm the focaccia on a baking sheet for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Optionally, finish with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a quick brush of melted butter for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
Microwaving is not recommended as it can make the focaccia soggy and dense.
| Storage Method | Duration | Wrapping | Reheating Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | Plastic wrap or airtight box | Oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes |
| Freezer | Up to 2 months | Plastic wrap + aluminum foil | Thaw overnight, then oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes |
Additional Tips for Leftovers
- Always cool the focaccia completely before storing to avoid condensation that can cause sogginess.
- For best flavor, consume refrigerated or thawed focaccia within the first day or two.
- If serving cold, pair leftovers with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce to revive the apple pie spices.
By following these Storage and Leftover Guidelines we ensure that our Apple Pie Focaccia remains a delicious treat long after baking.
Conclusion
Apple Pie Focaccia is a fantastic way to enjoy the classic flavors of apple pie with a fresh twist. This recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet and spice wrapped in a light, airy bread that’s sure to impress.
With the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, making this unique dessert at home is both fun and rewarding. Whether you’re serving it warm with ice cream or storing leftovers for later, it’s a treat that keeps on giving.
We’re confident this Apple Pie Focaccia will become a favorite in your kitchen, offering a delicious new way to celebrate the flavors of fall and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Apple Pie Focaccia?
Apple Pie Focaccia is a unique dessert that blends the flavors of traditional apple pie with the light, airy texture of focaccia bread, offering a sweet and distinctive alternative to regular pies.
What ingredients are needed for the focaccia dough?
The dough requires all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, sugar, salt, warm water, and olive oil to create a soft, slightly sweet base.
How is the apple pie filling made?
The filling combines tart and sweet apples with warm spices, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch for a balanced, flavorful mix.
Do I need a stand mixer to make this recipe?
A stand mixer with a dough hook is optional; you can hand-knead the dough effectively for good texture.
How should I bake the Apple Pie Focaccia?
After assembling the dough and filling on a baking sheet, bake it until golden and fully cooked, then cool before glazing.
What are good serving suggestions for Apple Pie Focaccia?
Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream, drizzle caramel sauce on top, dust with powdered sugar, or pair with spiced tea or coffee.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, dough and filling can be made ahead; dough up to 24 hours in advance, filling up to 3 days, or assemble and refrigerate overnight before baking.
How do I store leftover Apple Pie Focaccia?
Wrap it tightly and refrigerate for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2 months in an airtight container or plastic wrap.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in an oven or toaster oven to keep texture firm; avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
Can I add toppings to enhance the flavor?
Yes, whipped cream, Greek yogurt, or extra caramel sauce complement the apple and spice flavors beautifully.