There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen, and my Fluffy Cinnamon Focaccia takes that experience to another level. Imagine the essence of a classic cinnamon roll combined with the simplicity of a quick bread—this recipe is all about indulging in comforting flavors without the fuss.
As the soft, airy dough rises, it transforms into a golden masterpiece, cradling a sweet topping of caramelized cinnamon sugar. When drizzled with decadent vanilla icing, it becomes an irresistible treat that’s perfect for brunch, a cozy snack, or a memorable dessert. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself, this Cinnamon Focaccia is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your heart. Join me as we embark on this delightful baking adventure and fill your home with sweet, inviting fragrances!
Why is Cinnamon Focaccia so beloved?
Unmatched fragrance: Just wait until your kitchen fills with the warm scent of cinnamon as this bread bakes—it’s simply irresistible.
Versatile treat: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this fluffy focaccia fits the bill perfectly.
Simple preparation: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can master this delightful recipe.
Decadent icing: The vanilla drizzle adds a luxurious touch, elevating each bite into pure indulgence.
Crowd-pleaser: Friends and family will be lining up for seconds, making it an ideal addition to gatherings. Consider pairing it with my Apple Cinnamon Streusel for an unforgettable dessert spread!
Cinnamon Focaccia Ingredients
For the Dough
• Warm Water – Activates yeast; use water heated to about 110°F for optimal results.
• Active Dry Yeast – Ensure freshness for proper rising; it’s the leavening agent that makes this focaccia fluffy.
• White Granulated Sugar – Feeds yeast, aiding activation; brown sugar can also work here for a richer flavor.
• Bread Flour – Provides structure and chewiness; substitute with all-purpose flour for a softer texture.
• Salt – Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity; crucial for a balanced taste.
• Olive Oil – Adds moisture and flavor; can be replaced with another neutral oil if desired.
• Unsalted Butter (melted) – Richness booster for the dough; using unsalted helps control salt levels.
For the Cinnamon Topping
• Brown Butter – Deepens flavor with nutty notes; brown carefully for best results in the topping.
• Light Brown Sugar – Sweetens and adds moisture to the topping; dark brown sugar can enhance flavor complexity.
• Cinnamon – The star of the show; adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
For the Vanilla Icing
• Powdered Sugar – Used for smooth texture; sifting is recommended to avoid lumps in the icing.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds wonderful aroma and flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.
• Milk – Helps achieve the desired icing consistency; non-dairy milk can be a suitable substitute if needed.
How to Make Cinnamon Focaccia
- Activate Yeast: Combine warm water with sugar, then sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top. Let it foam for about 10-15 minutes until bubbly and alive—this is crucial for a fluffy texture.
- Mix Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together bread flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture along with olive oil, mixing until a sticky dough forms—it’s okay if it’s wet; that’s what makes it soft!
- First Rise: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 12 hours. This slow rise develops flavor, so don’t rush it!
- Second Rise: Grease a baking pan with melted unsalted butter. Gently deflate your dough and place it in the pan. Cover and allow it to rise in a warm spot for 1.5-2 hours, until it’s puffy and looks delightfully airy.
- Prepare Brown Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat, swirling occasionally until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Make Cinnamon Topping: In a bowl, mix the warm brown butter with light brown sugar and cinnamon until the sugar dissolves. This will create an irresistible topping for your focaccia.
- Dimple Dough: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Gently press deep dimples into the risen dough using your fingers, then drizzle the cinnamon-butter mixture evenly over the top—let it get into every nook and cranny.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown on top. Let it cool slightly in the pan, which helps to enhance that luscious texture.
- Finish with Icing: In a medium bowl, combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth, then drizzle the icing over the warm focaccia—slice it up and enjoy!
Optional: Sprinkle with extra cinnamon for an eye-catching garnish before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cinnamon Focaccia Variations
Feel free to put your unique spin on this Cinnamon Focaccia—let your creativity shine and enjoy the process!
- Maple Icing: Replace the vanilla icing with a maple syrup glaze for an earthy sweetness that complements cinnamon beautifully.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough to introduce a delightful crunch with each bite. They add a lovely texture and richness!
- Spicy Twist: Mix in a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom with the cinnamon topping for an unexpected flavor kick. It’s a great way to warm up your focaccia!
- Chocolate Swirls: For a decadent treat, fold in mini chocolate chips into the dough before the first rise. The chocolate melts beautifully, creating gooey pockets of delight.
- Fruit Addition: Toss in some raisins or dried cranberries for a touch of chewy sweetness mixed throughout the fluffy bread. They elevate the flavor profile wonderfully!
- Non-Dairy Version: Substitute milk and butter with almond or coconut milk and a plant-based butter to make this recipe friendly for dairy-free diets.
- Citrus Zest: Add fresh lemon or orange zest to the dough for a surprising fruity brightness that pairs exceptionally well with cinnamon. It brings a refreshing note!
- Whole Wheat Flour: Use half whole wheat flour in place of bread flour for a heartier version of this focaccia, making it nutritious without sacrificing taste.
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Focaccia
Room Temperature: Store any leftover Cinnamon Focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its fluffy texture.
Fridge: If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to 5 days in an airtight container. Note that refrigeration may slightly alter the texture.
Freezer: For extended storage, wrap the focaccia tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag, freezing for up to 2 months. This preserves its delicious flavors perfectly.
Reheating: To enjoy a slice of Cinnamon Focaccia, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it gently in a microwave or oven until warmed through, restoring its lovely softness!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Focaccia?
Elevate your baking experience by pairing this sweet treat with delightful accompaniments that enhance its comforting flavors.
- Rich Coffee: The boldness of freshly brewed coffee perfectly balances the sweetness of the focaccia, making every bite even more enjoyable.
- Fruit Salad: A bright mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and a pop of color to your brunch table, complementing the warm spices in the focaccia.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream drizzled on a slice of focaccia provides an indulgent, creamy contrast to the warm, fluffy bread.
- Nutty Granola: Serve a scoop of nutty granola on the side for a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft focaccia.
- Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of yogurt adds a tangy element that cuts through the sweetness, making every bite a delightful mix of flavors.
- Chai Tea: The aromatic spices of chai tea harmonize with the cinnamon, creating a warm, cozy beverage pairing that completes your meal.
- Dark Chocolate Drizzle: For dessert lovers, a drizzle of melted dark chocolate enhances the sweetness while adding a rich depth of flavor to every slice.
- Maple Syrup: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup brings an extra layer of sweetness that resonates perfectly with the cinnamon notes.
- Berries: Fresh berries add a touch of tartness, brightening up the dish and providing a refreshing contrast to the fluffy sweetness of the focaccia.
Expert Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Focaccia
- Check Yeast Freshness: Always use fresh active dry yeast to ensure proper rising. Be sure to activate it properly for a fluffy focaccia.
- Don’t Add Extra Flour: Expect a sticky dough; adding more flour will make it dense. Embrace the wet texture for a light, airy result!
- Allow Time for Rising: Patience is key! Give the dough enough time to rise—this allows for better flavor and larger air bubbles.
- Brown Butter Carefully: Watch the butter closely as it browns; burnt butter can ruin the topping. A nutty aroma indicates it’s ready!
- Cool Before Icing: Let the focaccia cool slightly before drizzling with icing to prevent it from melting into a gooey mess. Enjoy your delicious Cinnamon Focaccia!
Cinnamon Focaccia Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ingredients for my Cinnamon Focaccia?
Absolutely! For the freshest and fluffiest result, choose active dry yeast that is within its expiration date. When buying flour, go for bread flour as it provides the best structure; however, all-purpose flour can suffice if needed. Make sure your warm water is around 110°F—too hot can kill the yeast, and too cool won’t activate it.
How should I store leftover Cinnamon Focaccia?
Very! Store any leftover Cinnamon Focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep its delightful fluffiness. If you find yourself with more than you can eat in that time, refrigerate it for up to 5 days, but be aware that it might become slightly denser.
Can I freeze Cinnamon Focaccia, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Cinnamon Focaccia, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will retain its delicious flavor for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it gently to revive that fresh-from-the-oven texture.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
First, don’t panic! If your dough doesn’t rise as expected, check if your yeast was active—you can do this by adding a pinch of sugar to warm water and waiting for 10 minutes; it should foam up if it’s alive. If your kitchen is too cold, try placing the covered dough in a warm spot for the rising period, or preheat your oven for a minute, turn it off, and let the dough rise there.
Can I make adjustments to accommodate dietary restrictions, such as allergies?
Very! You can easily adapt this recipe to suit dietary requirements. Substitute all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, and consider using non-dairy milk in the icing. For those sensitive to sugar, reducing the amount or using alternative sweeteners like agave syrup could work as well. Enjoy experimenting!
How do I know when my focaccia is baked perfectly?
The more the merrier! Your Cinnamon Focaccia will be perfectly baked when it turns golden brown on top, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes. You can also tap the bottom of the bread lightly; if it sounds hollow, it’s ready to come out! Let it cool slightly in the pan to ensure that soft, fluffy interior stays intact.
Divinely Fluffy Cinnamon Focaccia: Your New Sweet Indulgence
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Activate Yeast: Combine warm water with sugar, then sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top. Let it foam for about 10-15 minutes until bubbly.
- Mix Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together bread flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture along with olive oil, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
- First Rise: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 12 hours.
- Second Rise: Grease a baking pan with melted unsalted butter. Gently deflate the dough and place it in the pan, allow it to rise for 1.5-2 hours.
- Prepare Brown Butter: Melt the unsalted butter over medium heat until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Make Cinnamon Topping: In a bowl, mix the warm brown butter with light brown sugar and cinnamon until the sugar dissolves.
- Dimple Dough: Preheat your oven to 450°F. Gently press deep dimples into the risen dough using your fingers, then drizzle the cinnamon-butter mixture evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown on top.
- Finish with Icing: In a medium bowl, combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth, then drizzle over the warm focaccia.
Nutrition
Notes
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