Holiday Bread with Rosemary

A festive, aromatic Italian bread with a golden crust and a soft, pillowy interior, topped with fragrant rosemary sprigs and sea salt perfect for holiday gatherings.

This bread brings warmth and festive spirit to any holiday table.

Ingredients

• Dough: 500 g (4 cups) bread flour, 350 ml (1½ cups) warm water (about 40°C/105°F), 10 g (2 tsp) fine sea salt, 7 g (2¼ tsp) instant dry yeast, 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Topping: 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp fresh rosemary sprigs, 1½ tsp flaky sea salt

Instructions

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Step 1:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt.

Step 2:

In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.

Step 3:

Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the flour. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 4:

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 5:

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 6:

Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 7:

Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet. Stretch and pat into a rectangle (about 30 x 20 cm).

Step 8:

Use your fingertips to dimple the surface deeply. Drizzle evenly with olive oil, and scatter rosemary sprigs and flaky sea salt on top.

Step 9:

Cover loosely and let rise for 30 minutes.

Step 10:

Bake for 22 25 minutes, or until deep golden brown and crisp on top.

Step 11:

Cool slightly, slice, and serve warm.

Organize cleaning supplies and kitchen essentials under the sink for quicker access during cooking and cleanup.

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Organize cleaning supplies and kitchen essentials under the sink for quicker access during cooking and cleanup.

Check price on Amazon

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Sharing this bread always fills our holidays with joy and delicious memories.

Serving Suggestions

Pairs well with olive oil and balsamic vinegar or alongside cheeses and cured meats.

Storage Tips

Best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated for later enjoyment.

Variations

For a festive touch, add halved cherry tomatoes or thinly sliced olives before baking.

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Melt chocolate or cheese smoothly for dipping fruits, pretzels, and snacks during desserts and parties.

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This focaccia bread delivers a perfect holiday treat that is both simple and delightful.

Recipe FAQ

→ What type of flour works best for this bread?

Bread flour is ideal due to its higher protein content, which helps develop gluten and creates a chewy texture.

→ How long should the dough rise for optimal texture?

The dough should rise for about 1 hour until doubled, then a second 30-minute rise after shaping to ensure a light and airy crumb.

→ Can I add other toppings besides rosemary?

Yes, halved cherry tomatoes or thinly sliced olives can be added before baking for extra flavor variations.

→ What temperature should the oven be preheated to?

Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F) to achieve a crisp, golden crust.

→ How should the dimpling be done on the dough surface?

Use your fingertips to press deep dimples evenly across the stretched dough to hold the olive oil and toppings effectively.

→ Is the bread best served fresh or reheated?

It is best enjoyed fresh and warm but can be gently reheated to restore softness if needed.