Cinnamon Focaccia

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of a cinnamon roll without the fuss, look no further than this Cinnamon Focaccia! This recipe is close to my heart, as it combines the warmth and coziness of cinnamon with an easy-to-make dough. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this focaccia brings smiles and sweet memories to any table.

Imagine pulling a warm, fluffy piece of Cinnamon Focaccia from the oven, the sweet aroma filling your home. It’s the kind of recipe that everyone will love, from kids to grandparents. Plus, it’s so simple that you can whip it up even on your busiest days!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal hands-on time, you can have delicious focaccia baking in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids will love helping with the dimples and drizzling icing on top!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: The dough rises overnight in the fridge, so it’s ready when you are.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of buttery cinnamon-sugar and vanilla icing is simply irresistible.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet dessert treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cinnamon Focaccia uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. With just a few staples, you’ll be on your way to creating something truly special!

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 Topping

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
• 6 tbsp brown butter
• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas to try:

• Add Nuts: Sprinkle in some chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Fruity Twist: Add dried fruit like raisins or cranberries for a burst of flavor.
• Spice It Up: Mix in a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for an aromatic twist.
• Glaze Options: Swap out the vanilla icing with cream cheese frosting for a rich finish.

How to Make Cinnamon Focaccia

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

To begin, combine warm water and granulated sugar in a small bowl. 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 ensures your yeast is alive and ready to help your focaccia rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Pour in your activated yeast mixture along with olive oil. Stir until everything comes together into a sticky dough ball. Rubbing olive oil on the surface helps keep it from drying out during its rise.

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 gives your focaccia that lovely airy texture.

Step 4: Second Rise

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

Step 5: Make Brown Butter

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt half a cup of butter while stirring continuously until it’s golden-amber with a nutty aroma. Remove from heat right away; burnt butter can spoil your flavor! Let it cool slightly before using.

Step 6: Make Cinnamon Topping

Combine brown sugar and cinnamon into your browned butter until dissolved into a luscious mixture. This topping will seep into every dimple of dough as it bakes!

Step 7: Dimple the Dough

Preheat your oven to 450℉. Once risen again, use wet fingertips to press deep dimples across its surface—this is where all that delicious topping will go! Drizzle evenly over your dimpled dough.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Allow cooling in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it onto a cooling rack for further cooling.

Step 9: Finish with Vanilla Icing

Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth to create an icing drizzle! Pour this over your warm focaccia lovingly—each bite will be enhanced by this sweet touch. Slice into squares and enjoy every moment!

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Focaccia

Making Cinnamon Focaccia can be a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll achieve the perfect texture and flavor.

• Use fresh yeast: Ensure your active dry yeast is fresh for the best rise. Old yeast can lead to dense dough that won’t puff up beautifully.

• Mind the temperature: Keep your water around 110℉ when activating the yeast. Too hot can kill it, while too cold may not activate it properly.

• Don’t rush the rises: Allowing your dough to rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight enhances the flavor and creates a lighter texture. Patience pays off!

• Be generous with dimples: Pressing deep dimples into the dough before baking allows the cinnamon-butter mixture to seep into every nook and cranny, ensuring maximum flavor in each bite.

• Adjust icing consistency: If you prefer a thicker icing, add less milk; for a drizzle that’s more fluid, add a little more. This way, you can customize it to your liking!

How to Serve Cinnamon Focaccia

Cinnamon Focaccia makes a stunning centerpiece for any breakfast or brunch table. Whether you enjoy it warm out of the oven or allow it to cool, it’s sure to impress family and friends!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the icing for added crunch and flavor.
• Fresh fruit: Top with fresh berries or thinly sliced apples to introduce a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
• Mint leaves: A few sprigs of mint not only add a pop of color but also offer a lovely aromatic touch.

Side Dishes

• Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits for a creamy and crunchy complement that balances sweetness.
• Scrambled eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and richness, making for a satisfying brunch combination.
• Fresh fruit salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and acidity that brightens up the meal.
• Herbed tea: Pair with a lightly brewed herbal tea like chamomile or peppermint for a soothing finish to your meal.

Enjoy creating this warm, inviting dish that brings everyone together—your Cinnamon Focaccia will surely become a beloved favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Cinnamon Focaccia is an ideal recipe for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its delightful flavors any time. You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later, ensuring you always have a delicious treat on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover Cinnamon Focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer a softer texture, place a slice of bread in the container to help maintain moisture.

Freezing

• Allow the focaccia to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Label the bags with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat Cinnamon Focaccia in the oven at 350℉ for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave slices for about 20-30 seconds, but be cautious as this may alter the texture slightly.

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 substitute all-purpose flour for bread flour; however, your focaccia may not be as airy or chewy. Bread flour has a higher protein content that helps create that delightful texture.

How do I achieve the best flavor in my Cinnamon Focaccia?

Using brown butter adds a rich, nutty flavor to your Cinnamon Focaccia. Additionally, allowing the dough to rise overnight enhances its depth of flavor and texture.

Can I make Cinnamon Focaccia without dairy?

Absolutely! You can replace the unsalted butter with vegan butter or coconut oil and use plant-based milk in the icing. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious treat!

How long does it take to make Cinnamon Focaccia from start to finish?

While it takes about 30 minutes of hands-on time to prepare, remember that you’ll need at least 12 hours for the first rise and around 1.5-2 hours for the second rise. Plan accordingly!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this scrumptious Cinnamon Focaccia! It’s such a special treat that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert. The combination of soft dough and gooey cinnamon-sugar topping creates an experience that will warm your heart. Don’t hesitate to share your creation with family and friends—everyone deserves a taste of this delightful recipe! Happy baking!