Overnight Focaccia

This Overnight Focaccia is a delightful bread that will elevate any meal. Its crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior make it perfect for sandwiches, bruschetta, or simply enjoying with olive oil. The long fermentation process gives the focaccia a distinct flavor that’s hard to resist! Whether you are hosting a gathering or just looking for a comforting side dish, this recipe is versatile and easy to follow.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful: The combination of fresh garlic, rosemary, and olive oil provides an irresistible aroma and taste.
• Simple Preparation: With minimal active time, you can easily incorporate this into your routine.
• Versatile Use: Perfect as a side dish, for sandwiches, or even as a base for pizza.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This focaccia is sure to impress guests at dinner parties or family gatherings.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to experiment with various herbs and seasonings to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious focaccia, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Plastic wrap
• Kitchen towel
• 9×13 baking pan
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is crucial for mixing ingredients without spills.
• Spatula: Ideal for combining dough and ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
• Plastic wrap: Helps retain moisture during the proving stages of the dough.
• Kitchen towel: Keeps your dough covered to prevent it from drying out while it rises.

Ingredients

This bubbly overnight focaccia is salty, fluffy, and will become your go-to bread.

For the Dough

• 480 grams King Arthur All-Purpose Flour
• 390 grams warm water
• 14 grams honey
• 14 grams kosher salt
• 2 grams active dry yeast
• 40 grams extra virgin olive oil

For the Brine and Topping

• 3 tbs warm water
• 1 tsp iodized salt
• 1 tbs water
• 2 tbs extra virgin olive oil
• 1-2 rosemary sprigs (chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (finely minced)
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp oregano
• Pinch red pepper flakes
• Parmigiano-Reggiano (freshly grated)

How to Make Overnight Focaccia

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

1. Add the honey and yeast to the warm water.
2. Mix to combine and let sit for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. Whisk together the flour and salt in a mixing bowl.
2. Pour in the yeast mixture along with olive oil.
3. Stir with a spatula until all dry bits are mixed in; it will form a wet blob.
4. Cover with plastic wrap and a kitchen towel for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Stretch and Fold

1. After 5 minutes, uncover the dough.
2. Wet your hand and stretch and fold the dough 4-5 times by pulling sections out and folding them over each other.
3. Rotate the bowl as you go.
4. Cover again with plastic wrap and towel; let rest for another 15 minutes.

Step 4: Second Stretch and Fold

1. Repeat the same stretch-and-fold process after resting.
2. Flip the dough so that the smooth side is up.
3. Drizzle more olive oil on top to coat it completely.
4. Cover again with plastic wrap; refrigerate for 12-18 hours.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

1. The next day, pour olive oil into a 9×13 pan.
2. Remove dough from fridge; it should have risen with air bubbles.
3. Gently pour it into the baking pan with smooth side up; cover with plastic wrap/towel.
4. Let sit in a warm place for 2-4 hours until expanded nearly filling out the pan.

Step 6: Make Brine

1. Combine warm water with salt until dissolved to create brine.

Step 7: Dimple the Dough

1. Uncover dough; dimple it by pressing fingers into it without tearing.
2. Pour brine over top evenly; cover again and proof for another 45 minutes while preheating oven to 500°F.

Step 8: Add Toppings

1. Mix all topping ingredients together in a bowl.
2. Once proofing is done, uncover dough, pour topping over bread, adding more olive oil if desired.

Step 9: Bake Focaccia

1. Lower oven temperature to 425°F; bake focaccia for about 30 minutes or until golden brown inside reaches at least 200°F.
2. For extra crispiness on bottom, move focaccia to bottom rack during last 15 minutes of baking.

Step 10: Cool Down

1. Remove from oven; let sit in tray for about 7 minutes before transferring to cool completely on wire rack.

This methodical approach will yield an exceptional focaccia that’s perfect on its own or paired with your favorite dishes! Enjoy every bite of this fluffy treat!

How to Serve Overnight Focaccia

Overnight focaccia is a versatile bread that pairs wonderfully with many dishes. Whether you want a light snack or a hearty meal, this focaccia can enhance any dining experience.

As a Sandwich Base

• Use slices of focaccia as the foundation for delicious sandwiches. It holds fillings well and adds a unique flavor.

With Dips

• Serve warm focaccia with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, or your favorite dips. This makes for an excellent appetizer.

Accompanying Soups

• Pair focaccia with soups like minestrone or tomato basil. The fluffy bread is perfect for soaking up delicious broth.

As a Breakfast Item

• Top focaccia with avocado and poached eggs for a filling breakfast option. It’s nutritious and satisfying!

For Entertaining

• Cut focaccia into bite-sized pieces and serve it on a platter at gatherings. Guests will love it as finger food.

How to Perfect Overnight Focaccia

Creating the perfect overnight focaccia requires attention to detail and some helpful tips.

• Use high-quality flour: This ensures better gluten development, leading to an airy texture.
• Monitor water temperature: Warm water helps activate the yeast efficiently, which contributes to rising.
• Be patient with proofing: Allow ample time for the dough to rise; this enhances flavor and texture.
• Oil your hands: Keeping your hands lightly oiled while handling the dough reduces sticking, making shaping easier.
• Don’t skip the dimpling: Pressing your fingers into the dough creates pockets that hold toppings and brine nicely.
• Pay attention while baking: Keep an eye on the color; golden brown indicates it’s ready but ensure it’s cooked through.

Best Side Dishes for Overnight Focaccia

Overnight focaccia pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a refreshing side.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal veggies in olive oil and herbs; roasting brings out their natural sweetness.
3. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the focaccia.
4. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Flavorful chicken skewers add protein while pairing well with the soft bread.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with grains or beans offer a hearty complement.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Light and healthy, zucchini noodles dressed in pesto provide a fresh contrast to focaccia’s richness.
7. Charcuterie Board: A selection of cheeses, olives, and spreads allows for creativity while enjoying your bread.
8. Marinated Artichokes: These tangy bites pair perfectly with focaccia’s flavor profile, enhancing any meal setting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making overnight focaccia can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls that can lead to less than perfect results. Here are some mistakes to watch for.

• Incorrect water temperature: Using water that is too hot or too cold can affect yeast activation. Ensure your water is warm (about 110°F or 43°C) to help the yeast rise effectively.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking requires precision. Use a kitchen scale for the flour and water to ensure the right consistency in your dough.
• Skipping the rest periods: Allowing the dough to rest is crucial for flavor and texture. Don’t rush through resting times; they help develop gluten.
• Overproofing the dough: Leaving the dough to rise for too long can result in a flat focaccia. Keep an eye on it, especially during the final proofing stage.
• Neglecting to use enough olive oil: Olive oil adds flavor and prevents sticking. Be generous when greasing your pan and drizzling on top before baking.
• Failing to dimple properly: Dimples help hold toppings and create texture. Press firmly, but gently, ensuring you reach the bottom of the pan without tearing the dough.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store focaccia in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Overnight Focaccia

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Overnight Focaccia

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds, but expect a softer texture.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, covered, for about 5 minutes for a crispy finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions regarding overnight focaccia preparation and storage.

What makes Overnight Focaccia different from regular focaccia?

Overnight focaccia is allowed to rise slowly in the fridge, enhancing its flavor and creating a lighter texture compared to regular versions that are baked shortly after mixing.

Can I add toppings to my Overnight Focaccia?

Absolutely! Customize your focaccia with toppings like olives, tomatoes, or different herbs before baking.

How do I know when my Overnight Focaccia is ready to bake?

The dough should have expanded significantly and filled most of the pan when it’s ready. It should also feel airy and light when you poke it gently.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour; however, it may lead to denser bread. Consider mixing half whole wheat with half all-purpose for better texture.

How long does Overnight Focaccia last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 2 months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

This fluffy overnight focaccia recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with various herbs or toppings based on your taste preferences. Try making it today for a delightful addition to any meal!