Cinnamon Focaccia

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the cozy essence of a cinnamon roll but is surprisingly simple to make, then you’re in for a real treat with this Cinnamon Focaccia! This recipe has become a cherished favorite in my home, perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely family gatherings. The warm, fluffy dough is filled with a buttery cinnamon-sugar mixture that turns golden and caramelized in the oven. Topped with a sweet vanilla icing, each bite is like a warm hug on a chilly day.

What I love most about this Cinnamon Focaccia is how easy it is to whip up. You can prepare the dough the night before and let it do its thing while you sleep, making breakfast or dessert feel special without the fuss. It’s sure to impress your loved ones and leave them asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick prep time: With just 30 minutes of hands-on work, you can easily fit this into your schedule.
• Make-ahead friendly: Let the dough rise overnight, so all you have to do in the morning is bake!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves the sweet, gooey goodness of cinnamon and sugar—perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or even dessert after dinner.
• Impressive presentation: With its golden edges and drizzle of icing, this focaccia looks as good as it tastes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cinnamon Focaccia uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. 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 things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
• Swap the spices: Try using cardamom instead of cinnamon for a unique twist.
• Incorporate fruit: Add fresh berries or sliced apples into the dough before baking for a fruity surprise.
• Experiment with toppings: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top instead of icing for a decadent touch.

How to Make Cinnamon Focaccia

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm water (about 110℉) with granulated sugar. Sprinkle active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes foamy. Activating the yeast is crucial because it ensures that your dough will 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 everything until a sticky dough forms. Lightly rub olive oil on top of the dough to keep it moist during rising.

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 long rise develops fantastic flavor and texture in your focaccia.

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 folding it toward the center several times before placing it into the prepared pan. Cover again and let rise for about 1½ to 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 regularly until it’s golden-brown with a nutty aroma. This step adds depth of flavor that makes your focaccia irresistible! Remember to remove it from heat promptly so it doesn’t burn.

Step 6: Make the Cinnamon Topping

Mix brown sugar and cinnamon into the browned butter until dissolved. This topping will create those delicious pockets of sweetness throughout your focaccia.

Step 7: Dimple the Dough

Preheat your oven to 450℉. Once your dough has risen again, use wet fingertips to press deep dimples all over its surface; this allows room for that yummy cinnamon-butter topping to soak into every bite!

Step 8: Bake

Bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Let cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring to a cooling rack to finish cooling—if you can resist diving right in!

Step 9: Finish with Vanilla Icing

In a small bowl, mix together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this sweet icing over your warm focaccia before slicing into squares. Each piece will be drizzled perfectly with icing goodness!

Enjoy every slice of this delightful Cinnamon Focaccia! It’s sure to be loved by everyone around your table!

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Focaccia

Baking can be a delightful journey, and with these tips, your Cinnamon Focaccia will turn out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Yeast: Always check the expiration date on your yeast. Fresh yeast ensures that your dough rises beautifully and gives you that airy texture we all love.

• Control Your Environment: If your kitchen is too cold, consider placing the dough in a slightly warm oven (turned off) for rising. A warm environment helps the yeast work its magic more effectively.

• Dimple Deeply: When creating dimples in the dough, make sure to press down firmly but gently. This not only creates pockets for the cinnamon-butter mixture but also ensures even baking.

• Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to add other spices like nutmeg or cardamom to your cinnamon topping. This adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile of your focaccia.

• Let it Cool Before Icing: Allowing the focaccia to cool slightly before drizzling with vanilla icing prevents the icing from melting away completely, resulting in a beautiful finish that stays on top.

How to Serve Cinnamon Focaccia

This Cinnamon Focaccia makes for a delightful centerpiece whether you’re enjoying it at breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Here are some ideas for how to present this irresistible treat!

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the icing for added crunch and flavor.
• Fresh Berries: A handful of fresh raspberries or blueberries can add a pop of color and a touch of tartness that complements the sweetness.
• Mint Leaves: A few fresh mint leaves not only look beautiful but also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Side Dishes

• Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad pairs perfectly with Cinnamon Focaccia, balancing its sweetness with vibrant flavors.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a creamy side that adds protein and texture.
• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances the cozy experience of enjoying this delicious bread, making it feel like a special occasion.
• Scrambled Eggs: For a heartier breakfast option, serve alongside fluffy scrambled eggs. The savory notes balance wonderfully with the sweet focaccia.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Cinnamon Focaccia will impress friends and family alike! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Cinnamon Focaccia is a fantastic recipe for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, and it stores beautifully, ensuring you have a delicious treat ready whenever you want.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If you’d like to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, where it will last for up to one week.

Freezing

• Allow the focaccia to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the bags!

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, remove the wrapping and place the focaccia on a baking sheet at 350℉ (175℃) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
• If reheating thawed focaccia, you can use the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm it in the oven as mentioned above for that crispy texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Cinnamon Focaccia.

Can I make Cinnamon Focaccia without bread flour?

Yes! While bread flour gives this focaccia its wonderful texture, you can substitute all-purpose flour. Just note that the result may be slightly less chewy.

How is Cinnamon Focaccia different from a cinnamon roll?

Cinnamon Focaccia combines the flavors of a cinnamon roll with the ease of a flatbread. It offers that same delightful cinnamon-sugar goodness but requires less assembly and time.

Can I add nuts or fruits to my Cinnamon Focaccia?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped nuts or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries into the dough or sprinkle them on top before baking for extra flavor and texture.

How do I store my Cinnamon Focaccia?

You can store leftover Cinnamon Focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze as mentioned above.

Can I make this Cinnamon Focaccia vegan?

Yes! Simply replace the unsalted butter with vegan butter and use plant-based milk in the icing. The recipe will still turn out delicious!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Cinnamon Focaccia as much as I do! It’s special because it combines the beloved flavors of cinnamon rolls with the simplicity of focaccia. Whether you’re serving it at brunch or enjoying a slice with your afternoon tea, it’s sure to bring warmth and joy. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your experience!