Cinnamon Focaccia

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the comfort of cinnamon rolls with the simplicity of bread, then Cinnamon Focaccia is just what you need! This recipe has quickly become one of my favorites because it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re indulging in a cozy breakfast at home, preparing for a family gathering, or surprising your friends with a sweet snack, this Cinnamon Focaccia is sure to please.

The magic of this recipe lies in its soft and airy texture, beautifully complemented by crispy edges and a sweet, buttery filling. Plus, it’s so easy to make! The dough requires minimal hands-on time and can be prepped overnight, giving you more time to enjoy with loved ones. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will find a special place in your heart!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation: No complicated steps here! This Cinnamon Focaccia is simple to make and requires minimal active time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves the warm, gooey flavors of cinnamon and sugar—this treat will disappear fast!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep the dough overnight for an easy bake in the morning or for whenever your sweet tooth strikes.
• Delicious flavors: The combination of brown butter and cinnamon creates a rich flavor that’s irresistible.
• Perfect for sharing: With 12 servings, it’s ideal for brunches or cozy get-togethers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Cinnamon Focaccia, you’ll only need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need:

For the Dough

• 2 cups warm water (heated to about 110℉)
• 2 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tsp white granulated sugar
• 4 cups bread flour (spooned and leveled)
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Filling

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
• 6 tbsp brown butter (see notes below)
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar
• 2 tsp cinnamon

For the Icing

• 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 tbsp milk (adjust for desired consistency)

Variations

This Cinnamon Focaccia is incredibly flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top before baking for an added crunch.
• Mix in fruits: Toss in some diced apples or raisins into the dough for extra sweetness and texture.
• Change the spices: Experiment with nutmeg or cardamom alongside cinnamon for a unique twist on flavor.
• Top with frosting: Instead of icing, try adding a cream cheese frosting after it cools for an indulgent touch.

How to Make Cinnamon Focaccia

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm water (about 110℉) and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for 10-15 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step is essential as it wakes up the yeast and gets it ready to help your dough rise!

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Then pour in the activated yeast mixture along with olive oil. Stir everything together until you form a sticky dough ball. Lightly rub olive oil on top of the dough so it doesn’t dry out as it rises.

Step 3: First Rise

Cover your bowl with a damp tea towel or plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours. This cold rise helps develop flavor while making it easier to handle later on.

Step 4: Second Rise

Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper. Pour 2 tablespoons of melted butter into the center of the pan. Gently deflate your risen dough by pulling from the sides towards the center several times before placing it into your buttered pan. Cover again and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 ½ – 2 hours.

Step 5: Make the Brown Butter

In a small saucepan, melt half a cup of butter over medium heat. Keep stirring until you catch that lovely nutty aroma and see that golden-amber color develop—this adds so much depth to our focaccia! Remove from heat immediately to avoid burning.

Step 6: Make the Cinnamon Topping

Add light brown sugar and cinnamon directly into your browned butter mixture. Stir until combined and smooth—it should look glorious!

Step 7: Dimple the Dough

Preheat your oven to 450℉. Once your dough has risen again, use wet fingertips to press deep dimples all over its surface. Drizzle that delicious cinnamon-butter evenly over those dimples so every bite will be filled with flavor.

Step 8: Bake

Pop your focaccia into the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown on top. Let it cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack—this helps keep its soft texture intact!

Step 9: Finish with Vanilla Icing

Combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth—that’s our icing! Drizzle this heavenly mixture over your warm focaccia slices before serving them up fresh from the oven.

Now all that’s left is to slice into squares and enjoy every fluffy bite of this wonderful Cinnamon Focaccia!

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Focaccia

Baking is all about practice and a few helpful tricks, so here are some pro tips to ensure your Cinnamon Focaccia turns out perfectly every time!

• Use warm water: Starting with water heated to about 110℉ is crucial for activating the yeast. This temperature helps the yeast thrive, leading to a light and airy dough.
• Let it rise overnight: Allowing the dough to rise in the refrigerator not only develops flavor but also makes it easier to handle. The cold dough is less sticky and can be shaped more easily.
• Dimple deeply: When pressing dimples into the dough, don’t be shy! Deep dimples create pockets that hold the delicious cinnamon-butter mixture. This enhances both flavor and texture.
• Monitor baking time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your focaccia as it bakes. You want it golden brown—too dark can mean a dry texture, while underbaking may leave it doughy.
• Serve warm: For the best experience, serve your Cinnamon Focaccia warm with icing drizzled on top. The warmth enhances flavors and creates a delightful melt-in-your-mouth sensation.

How to Serve Cinnamon Focaccia

Cinnamon Focaccia is not just a treat; it’s a delightful centerpiece that can elevate any meal or gathering. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, presenting this dish beautifully will impress everyone at your table!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the icing for added crunch and flavor that complements the cinnamon.
• Fresh fruit: A handful of sliced strawberries or blueberries adds a burst of freshness and color that balances the sweetness of the focaccia.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the focaccia.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a creamy side that pairs perfectly with your sweet bread.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup complements the flavors beautifully; consider serving with a spiced chai or rich coffee to enhance the cozy vibes.
• Scrambled eggs: Lightly seasoned scrambled eggs provide protein and balance out the sweetness in this lovely breakfast treat.

Enjoy crafting this recipe into a memorable moment for yourself or loved ones!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cinnamon Focaccia is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its warm, sweet goodness any time of the day. You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the focaccia to cool completely before storing.
• Place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the cooled focaccia into squares before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Remember to label your packages with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat individual portions in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350℉ for about 10 minutes, until warmed through.
• You can also microwave slices for about 15-20 seconds, but this may result in a softer texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Cinnamon Focaccia.

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour for Cinnamon Focaccia?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but the texture may be slightly different. Bread flour gives that delightful chewiness that focaccia is known for.

How long does it take to make Cinnamon Focaccia?

While the active preparation time is about 30 minutes, remember that this recipe requires an overnight rise in the refrigerator. Plan accordingly to enjoy fresh focaccia!

Can I add nuts or fruits to my Cinnamon Focaccia?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can be added to enhance flavor and texture.

What makes this Cinnamon Focaccia special?

This recipe combines soft, airy dough with rich brown butter and cinnamon-sugar topping, making it a delightful alternative to traditional cinnamon rolls. The vanilla icing adds a lovely finishing touch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking this wonderful Cinnamon Focaccia! It’s such a comforting treat that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. The combination of flavors and textures makes every bite so special. Enjoy making it, and don’t forget to embrace those warm memories created around the table. Happy baking!