Pumpkin Focaccia Recipe That’s Easy and Delicious

As the crisp air of autumn settles in, there’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen. This pumpkin focaccia recipe marries the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with the rustic charm of Italian focaccia bread, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for fall gatherings or cozy evenings at home.

The vibrant orange hue of pumpkin not only adds a beautiful color but also infuses the dough with moisture and subtle flavor that pairs wonderfully with fragrant herbs and a hint of sea salt. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious newbie, this recipe is approachable and rewarding, promising golden, fluffy, and slightly crisp focaccia with a tender crumb.

Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up leftover pumpkin puree and impress your friends with a seasonal twist on a classic bread. Let’s dive into this delicious pumpkin focaccia adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pumpkin focaccia recipe stands out for its unique blend of flavors and textures. The pumpkin enriches the dough with natural sweetness and moisture, resulting in a soft yet airy bread that stays fresh longer than typical focaccia.

The addition of rosemary and garlic creates a fragrant, savory contrast that elevates every bite.

It’s perfect as a snack, appetizer, or alongside soups and salads. The dough is forgiving and easy to work with, making it ideal for bakers of all skill levels.

Plus, pumpkin is packed with vitamins and antioxidants, so you’re adding a nutritious boost to your bread without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a homemade comfort food, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

For more delicious bread ideas, check out our Veggie Bread Recipes That Are Easy and Delicious.

Ingredients

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (fresh or canned, unsweetened)
• 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary leaves
• Coarse sea salt for sprinkling

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or dough hook attachment for a stand mixer
• Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Baking sheet or rectangular focaccia pan (about 9×13 inches)
• Pastry brush
• Cooling rack

Instructions

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This signals that the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.
2. Mix the wet ingredients: In your large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree and olive oil until smooth. Add the activated yeast mixture and stir to combine.
3. Add dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon or mixer at low speed until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead for 6-7 minutes with the dough hook. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
5. First rise: Lightly oil your mixing bowl and place the dough inside, turning once to coat with oil. Cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1 ½ hours, until doubled in size.
6. Prepare the pan: Drizzle olive oil generously on your baking sheet or focaccia pan. Transfer the risen dough and gently stretch it out with your fingers to fill the pan evenly. If it resists stretching, let it rest for 10 minutes and try again.
7. Second rise: Cover the dough again and allow it to rise for another 30-40 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
8. Dimple the dough: Using your fingertips, gently press dimples all over the surface of the dough to create that classic focaccia texture. Avoid pressing too hard to keep the air bubbles intact.
9. Add toppings: Sprinkle the sliced garlic and rosemary evenly over the dough. Drizzle more olive oil on top, then sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
10. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
11. Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding caramelized onions or toasted pumpkin seeds on top before baking.

If you want a gluten-free option, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend and adjust the liquid slightly for consistency.

Using fresh rosemary will give a brighter herbal aroma, but dried rosemary works in a pinch.

Try incorporating a teaspoon of smoked paprika into the dough for a subtle smoky twist.

Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and toppings — focaccia is wonderfully versatile. For more herbaceous bread inspiration, check out our BuzzFeed Vegan Pizza Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This pumpkin focaccia pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. It’s ideal for dipping in olive oil and balsamic vinegar or alongside hearty soups and stews.

Try it with a warm bowl of butternut squash soup or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

For a complete seasonal meal, serve slices with roasted vegetables and a drizzle of herb-infused olive oil. You can also use this focaccia to make gourmet sandwiches with your favorite fillings like roasted turkey, arugula, and cranberry sauce.

Looking for more cozy meal inspirations? Check out our Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food and Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.

Conclusion

Bringing pumpkin into your focaccia dough is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall. This recipe offers a perfect balance of moist, tender bread with aromatic herbs and a hint of garlic that will tantalize your taste buds.

It’s simple enough for a weeknight bake yet impressive enough for special occasions. The natural sweetness of pumpkin not only enhances the bread’s texture but also adds subtle depth to a classic favorite.

Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, snack, or main accompaniment, this pumpkin focaccia is sure to become a seasonal staple in your kitchen.

Don’t forget to experiment with toppings and pair it with your favorite dishes to make it truly your own. For more inspiring plant-based recipes, explore our collection of [Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals].

Happy baking!

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