Rustic Focaccia

An olive oil-rich Italian flatbread with a crispy bottom and airy, dimpled top. Customize with your favorite toppings.

Prep: 20 min
Cook: 25 min
Rest: 3 hr
Total: 3 hr 45 min
Yield: 1 large sheet
easy

Instructions

  1. 1

    Combine flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and water. Mix until combined, then add 2 tbsp olive oil.

  2. 2

    Cover and let rise at room temperature for 2 hours, performing stretch and folds every 30 minutes for the first 1.5 hours.

  3. 3

    Pour remaining olive oil into a rimmed baking sheet. Transfer dough to the sheet.

  4. 4

    Gently stretch the dough to fill the pan. If it springs back, let it rest 10 minutes and try again.

  5. 5

    Cover and let rise for 45-60 minutes until puffy.

  6. 6

    Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).

  7. 7

    Use oiled fingers to dimple the dough deeply. Drizzle with more olive oil, scatter rosemary and flaky salt.

  8. 8

    Bake 22-25 minutes until golden and crispy on the bottom.

Baker's Tips

  • The wetter the dough, the more open and airy the focaccia will be.
  • Try toppings like cherry tomatoes, olives, caramelized onions, or everything bagel seasoning.
  • Focaccia is best eaten the day it's made, but reheats well in a hot oven for 5 minutes.
Published February 3, 2026