Cinnamon Focaccia Bread Recipe for a Sweet Twist

There’s something undeniably magical about focaccia bread. With its golden crust, airy crumb, and that irresistible dimpled surface, focaccia is a canvas for endless flavors.

But when you add the warm, aromatic touch of cinnamon, it transforms into a comforting, slightly sweet delight that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy afternoon snack. This cinnamon focaccia bread recipe combines the soft, fluffy texture of traditional Italian bread with a fragrant swirl of cinnamon sugar that’ll fill your kitchen with an inviting aroma.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. It’s an excellent way to impress family and friends or simply treat yourself to something special.

Ready to bake a loaf that’s both rustic and indulgent? Let’s dive into why this cinnamon focaccia might just become your new favorite bread!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Versatility: Cinnamon focaccia strikes a perfect balance between sweet and savory, making it ideal for various occasions. It can be enjoyed plain, topped with nuts or fruit, or even served alongside soups and salads.

Simple Ingredients: There’s no need for fancy or hard-to-find ingredients. Pantry staples like flour, yeast, sugar, and cinnamon come together to create something spectacular.

Easy to Make: The dough requires minimal kneading and only one rise, perfect for bakers who want impressive results without complicated steps. Plus, no fancy equipment is necessary!

Perfect Texture: Expect a crispy crust with a soft, airy interior that melts in your mouth. The cinnamon sugar adds a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the bread’s savory notes.

Ingredients

• 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 ¼ cups (300ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• ¼ cup (60ml) olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• Optional: coarse sea salt for sprinkling
• Optional: chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans) for topping

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or dough whisk
• 9×13-inch baking pan or similar-sized sheet pan
• Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Pastry brush (optional)
• Cooling rack

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, salt, and granulated sugar. Stir together until evenly mixed.
2. Add liquids: Pour in the warm water and olive oil. Use a wooden spoon or dough whisk to mix until a sticky dough forms. The dough will be quite tacky but resist adding extra flour.
3. First rise: Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Prepare the cinnamon sugar: In a small bowl, mix together the ground cinnamon and brown sugar. Set aside.
5. Shape the dough: Generously oil your baking pan to prevent sticking. Transfer the risen dough into the pan. Using your fingertips, gently stretch and press the dough to fill the pan evenly. Don’t worry if it resists; let it rest 5 minutes and try again. This helps develop the airy texture.
6. Add dimples and toppings: Using your fingertips, press deep dimples all over the dough surface. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top, then evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture. If using, scatter chopped nuts and a pinch of coarse sea salt for contrast and crunch.
7. Second rise: Cover the pan loosely and let the dough rise again for about 30-40 minutes. It should puff up noticeably but not double this time.
8. Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the focaccia for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool and serve: Allow the focaccia to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

“For an even more aromatic bread, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough or sprinkle some orange zest over the cinnamon sugar before baking.”

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for bread baking, and add a binding agent like xanthan gum if needed.
• Vegan Option: This recipe is naturally vegan, but ensure your sugar is certified vegan if that is a concern.
• Sweet Toppings: Add raisins, dried cranberries, or thinly sliced apples on top before baking for extra sweetness and texture.
• Savory Twist: For a sweet-savory combo, add a sprinkle of rosemary or thyme along with the cinnamon sugar.
• Storage: Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven to refresh the crust.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This cinnamon focaccia is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. Serve it warm alongside a steaming mug of chai or coffee for a comforting breakfast.

It also makes a great side to creamy soups like butternut squash or pumpkin soup, complementing their richness with its sweet-spiced notes.

For an indulgent treat, spread softened vegan butter or cream cheese on a slice. You can also create a unique dessert by topping slices with fresh fruit and a drizzle of maple syrup or agave nectar.

To explore more delicious and easy vegan recipes, check out these favorites:

• Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious
• Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious
• Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping

Conclusion

Making cinnamon focaccia bread at home is a delightful project that fills your kitchen with warm, inviting scents and results in a deliciously soft, sweet-savory loaf. Its simplicity and versatility make it a fantastic addition to your baking repertoire, suitable for any time of day.

This recipe’s minimal ingredients and straightforward steps mean you don’t have to be an expert baker to enjoy authentic, homemade focaccia with a cinnamon twist.

Whether you’re serving it for breakfast with your favorite spread or as a snack alongside tea, this cinnamon focaccia is sure to bring smiles and satisfied taste buds. Plus, it pairs beautifully with many dishes, making it a versatile staple.

Remember, baking is a creative process — feel free to experiment with toppings and spices to make this recipe uniquely yours. Happy baking!

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