Cinnamon Focaccia

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the warm, sweet flavors of cinnamon rolls with the ease of baking bread, then Cinnamon Focaccia is your answer. This recipe has been a cherished favorite in my home for years. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting but don’t have a ton of time to spare. The best part? Everyone loves it! Whether it’s a cozy family brunch or a gathering with friends, this Cinnamon Focaccia always steals the show.

Just imagine pulling this soft and airy bread out of the oven, its golden edges beckoning you to take a bite. The dimples filled with buttery cinnamon-sugar create a delicious caramelized topping that is simply irresistible. And let’s not forget about the drizzle of vanilla icing that melts into every fluffy square. Trust me, once you try this Cinnamon Focaccia, it will become a beloved recipe in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making Cinnamon Focaccia is a breeze.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone will love this sweet treat, from kids to adults—perfect for any occasion!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: The dough can rise overnight, making it an easy option for breakfast or dessert.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of brown butter and cinnamon creates an unforgettable taste that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is one of the joys of baking. For this delightful Cinnamon Focaccia, you’ll need just a few pantry staples along with some comforting flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
• 6 tbsp brown butter (see notes below)
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar
• 2 tsp cinnamon
• 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 tbsp milk (adjust for desired consistency)

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adjust it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for an added crunch.
• Try different spices: Mix things up by adding nutmeg or cardamom alongside the cinnamon for a unique flavor profile.
• Incorporate fruit: Diced apples or raisins can add sweetness and texture to your focaccia.
• Make it savory: Swap out the cinnamon-sugar topping for herbs like rosemary or garlic for a delightful twist.

How to Make Cinnamon Focaccia

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

To get started on your Cinnamon Focaccia, you’ll first need to 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 about 10-15 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step is crucial as it wakes up the yeast, ensuring your dough rises beautifully!

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Pour in your activated yeast mixture along with olive oil. Stir everything together until it forms a sticky dough ball—don’t worry if it’s not perfect! Lightly rub the surface of the dough with olive oil; this helps prevent sticking as it rises.

Step 3: First Rise

Cover your bowl with a damp tea towel or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours. This slow rise allows flavors to develop and creates that soft texture we love in focaccia.

Step 4: Second Rise

Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper. Pour two tablespoons of melted butter into the center of the pan. Gently deflate your dough by pulling it from the sides of the bowl toward the center several times before placing it in your prepared pan. Cover again and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1½ -2 hours.

Step 5: Make the Brown Butter

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt half a cup of butter while stirring continuously until you notice that nutty aroma and see that beautiful golden color—this is brown butter magic! Remove from heat immediately so it doesn’t burn; let cool for about ten minutes before using.

Step 6: Make the Cinnamon Topping

Combine brown sugar and cinnamon into your cooled brown butter mixture, mixing until everything is nicely dissolved. This topping will infuse delicious flavor throughout your focaccia!

Step 7: Dimple the Dough

Preheat your oven to 450℉ while getting ready to add those signature dimples! Once your dough has risen nicely, use wet fingertips to press deep dimples all over its surface—this step helps hold all that lovely cinnamon-butter topping we just made.

Step 8: Bake

Time to bake! Place your dimpled focaccia in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown on top. Let cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack—if you can wait!

Step 9: Finish with Vanilla Icing

Last but certainly not least, combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth. Drizzle this icing evenly over your warm focaccia so that each slice gets that sweet finish. Now slice into squares and enjoy every fluffy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Focaccia

Making Cinnamon Focaccia is a delightful journey, and with these pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to baking the perfect loaf!

• Use warm water for yeast activation: Ensuring your water is around 110℉ helps awaken the yeast effectively, leading to a better rise and fluffiness in your focaccia.

• Don’t skip the overnight rise: Allowing the dough to rest in the fridge enhances the flavor and texture. It develops a nice depth of taste that makes every bite truly special.

• Dimple with care: When creating dimples in the dough, use wet fingertips and press firmly but gently. This technique not only creates beautiful pockets for the cinnamon-butter mixture but also keeps the dough airy.

• Keep an eye on your oven temperature: Baking at 450℉ ensures that your focaccia achieves those crispy edges while still remaining soft inside. An oven thermometer can be handy to avoid any surprises!

• Let it cool before icing: Allowing your baked focaccia to cool slightly before drizzling with icing prevents it from melting away completely, ensuring each piece gets that sweet touch.

How to Serve Cinnamon Focaccia

Serving Cinnamon Focaccia is all about presentation and pairing it with delightful accompaniments for a complete experience. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the cinnamon beautifully.

• Fresh fruit: A few slices of fresh apples or pears arranged on the side can add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the focaccia.

Side Dishes

• Yogurt parfait: A creamy yogurt parfait layered with granola and fresh berries makes a deliciously satisfying side. The tang of yogurt balances out the sweetness of the focaccia perfectly.

• Fruit salad: A vibrant fruit salad filled with seasonal fruits not only adds color to your table but also brings freshness that pairs wonderfully with this dessert-like bread.

• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea works wonders alongside Cinnamon Focaccia, enhancing its flavors while providing a comforting drink option.

Now, gather your loved ones and enjoy this comforting treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

Cinnamon Focaccia is not just a delightful treat; it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it fresh throughout the week.

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 3 days.

Freezing

• Slice the focaccia into squares for easy serving.
• Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Remember to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃).
• Remove the focaccia from the freezer and unwrap it.
• Bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• For individual pieces, you can also microwave them for 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

If you’re wondering more about this delicious recipe, here are some common questions!

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

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour for bread flour. However, using bread flour will give your focaccia a chewier texture, which many people love!

How long does it take to make Cinnamon Focaccia?

The total time includes overnight refrigeration and two rises, but active prep and bake time is around one hour. It’s worth the wait for that fluffy goodness!

What can I serve with my Cinnamon Focaccia?

This delightful treat pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea! It can also be enjoyed with fresh fruit or yogurt as a light breakfast option.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Cinnamon Focaccia! It’s a wonderful twist on traditional cinnamon rolls that brings all the comfort without much fuss. Whether you’re enjoying it warm out of the oven or saving some for later, each bite is sure to bring a smile. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations!