There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the house. As I prepared to create this Vegan Focaccia, I couldn’t help but recall how baking something from scratch brings family and friends together, filling the room not just with delightful scents, but also with a sense of home. This recipe, with its simple ingredients and irresistible texture, became my go-to for casual gatherings and spontaneous dinners alike.
Imagine sinking your fingers into soft dough, creating the signature dimples, all while the anticipation of golden crust and fluffy insides builds. Not only is this focaccia a feast for the senses, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking to snack on it with dips, pair it with soups and salads, or simply enjoy it warm from the oven with a drizzle of olive oil, this recipe has you covered. So, grab your flour and let’s embark on this delicious, homemade journey that will make you forget all about the nearest fast-food joint!
Why is Vegan Focaccia a Must-Try?
Comforting aroma: Picture the warm scent of homemade bread wrapping around your kitchen—it’s pure bliss!
Easy preparation: With minimal hands-on time, you can let the dough rise while tackling your to-do list.
Crowd-pleaser: This fluffy bread is perfect for any gathering, from family dinners to potlucks.
Versatile delight: Serve it as a standalone snack, or pair it with your favorite dips, soups, and salads.
Vegan-friendly: Enjoy delicious baking without animal products—great for everyone!
Don’t miss out on other delightful bread recipes; check out our easy homemade bread ideas for more deliciousness!
Vegan Focaccia Ingredients
• Let’s gather what you need to create this delightful Vegan Focaccia!
For the Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour – Use bread flour for an even fluffier texture!
- 2 teaspoons salt – This helps enhance the flavor of your focaccia.
- 1 packet instant yeast (2 1/4 tsp) – Instant yeast makes for a faster rise, great for busy bakers!
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar – The sugar helps activate the yeast for a better rise.
- 2 cups warm water – Warm water nourishes the yeast, making it lively for a perfect dough.
- 6 tablespoons olive oil, divided – Olive oil adds richness and a delightful flavor.
For Pan Preparation
- Vegan butter – Perfect for greasing the pan to prevent sticking.
- Flaky sea salt – Sprinkling this on top gives your focaccia a savory finish.
Optional Toppings
- Fresh rosemary – A fragrant addition that pairs beautifully with the bread.
- Sliced tomatoes – Add a burst of freshness and color to your focaccia!
Dive into the delicious world of Vegan Focaccia and enjoy a warm, comforting treat that delights everyone—without any animal products!
How to Make Vegan Focaccia
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Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, stir together the flour, salt, yeast, and sugar using a whisk to blend seamlessly. This ensures an even rise and flavor throughout your dough.
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Mix the dough: Pour in the warm water and mix with a rubber spatula until a sticky dough forms, roughly 2-3 minutes. The mixture should look slightly wet and sticky, helping create that irresistible texture.
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Add olive oil: Incorporate 2 tablespoons of olive oil into the bowl, coating the outside of the dough ball. Flip it over gently, ensuring the whole ball glistens with oil; this keeps it moist during refrigeration.
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Chill the dough: Cover the bowl tightly with a clean damp tea towel or plastic wrap. Let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours (overnight) or up to 3 days for the flavors to deepen.
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Prepare the pan: Grease a 9×13 inch pan with vegan butter and pour 2 tablespoons of olive oil into the center. This will create a lovely, crisp base for your focaccia while it bakes.
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Transfer the dough: Gently move the dough to the prepared pan, rolling it in the olive oil to coat. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let it rise at room temperature for 2-3 hours until it expands and fills most of the pan.
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Preheat the oven: Set your oven to a warm 425°F (220°C) while the dough completes its rise, ensuring that it becomes beautifully golden when it’s baking.
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Add toppings: If you’re using fresh rosemary, sprinkle it generously over the dough. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil on top, creating a luscious sheen.
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Create dimples: Use your fingertips to press straight down into the dough, forming deep dimples. This not only looks appealing but also helps to capture any extra olive oil and toppings.
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Sprinkle salt: If desired, gently stretch the dough to fill the pan, then finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top. The salt will enhance all the flavors in the final product.
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Bake: Place the pan in the center rack of the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the focaccia is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
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Cool before serving: Once it’s baked, carefully transfer the focaccia to a cooling rack. Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving to keep the texture perfect.
Optional: Serve warm with a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic vinegar for an extra treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Vegan Focaccia
Temperature Check: Use warm, not hot, water when mixing your dough. Water that’s too hot can kill the yeast, preventing your vegan focaccia from rising.
Proper Rising: It’s crucial to let your dough rise adequately both in the refrigerator and at room temperature. Avoid rushing this step to achieve that airy texture.
Dimples Matter: Remember to create deep dimples in the dough before baking. They help the olive oil and toppings infuse into the focaccia, enhancing its flavor.
Oil Usage: Don’t skimp on olive oil! It not only keeps the dough moist but also contributes to a wonderfully crisp crust.
Creative Toppings: Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Fresh herbs, olives, or caramelized onions can elevate your vegan focaccia to the next level.
Vegan Focaccia Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this Vegan Focaccia uniquely yours!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs without compromising texture. Just ensure you add xanthan gum for structure!
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Herbs Galore: Mix in dried herbs like oregano or thyme into your dough for a fragrant twist. These herbs mingle beautifully with the olive oil, infusing the bread with delightful Mediterranean flavors.
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Stuffed Focaccia: Roll the dough out and fill it with your favorite vegan cheese or sautéed vegetables before folding it over. The melted bits inside create an amazing surprise for your taste buds!
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Cheesy Vegan: Toss in some nutritional yeast before mixing the dough for a cheesy flavor experience without any dairy. It adds a great depth while keeping things plant-based.
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Spicy Kick: For those who love some heat, add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the dough. This subtle heat elevates each bite and pairs wonderfully with olive oil.
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Sweet Twist: Incorporate a tablespoon of maple syrup into the dough for a hint of sweetness. This balances beautifully with savory toppings like garlic and rosemary.
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Crispy Bottom: Preheat a cast iron skillet in the oven before adding the dough. This creates an extra crispy crust—perfect for that satisfying crunch when you take a bite.
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Veggie-Loaded: Top the uncooked focaccia with an array of seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and olives before baking. They roast beautifully and add color and nutrition!
How to Store and Freeze Vegan Focaccia
Room Temperature: Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and ready to enjoy.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can keep the focaccia in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to avoid it drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the focaccia by wrapping it in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months, preserving that delightful fluffy texture.
Reheating: To enjoy your frozen focaccia, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, then warm it in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes to restore its original fluffiness.
What to Serve with Vegan Focaccia?
Pair your freshly baked focaccia with delightful accompaniments to create a meal that dazzles the senses!
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Creamy Hummus: A smooth, flavorful dip that balances the focaccia’s texture and makes for an irresistible pairing.
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Roasted Vegetables: Serving warm, seasoned veggies brings a pop of color and flavor, enhancing your meal’s overall appeal.
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Classic Tomato Soup: Sipping on rich tomato soup while tearing into warm focaccia makes for a comforting duo—perfect for chilly evenings.
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Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds brightness, cutting through the warm, comforting bread effortlessly.
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Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar: A simple bowl of quality olive oil drizzled with balsamic vinegar invites you to indulge in a warm crusty slice.
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Vegan Cheese Board: Complement the focaccia with a variety of vegan cheeses, fruits, and nuts for a delightful and visually appealing platter that everyone will enjoy.
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Chilled Wine: A crisp white or refreshing rosé beautifully complements the focaccia flavors, ensuring a delightful experience at any gathering.
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Sweet Fruit Jam: Try pairing with spreads like fig or apricot jam to add a hint of sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the focaccia’s savory notes.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Focaccia are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh-baked goodness even on the busiest days! You can make the dough up to 3 days in advance, simply cover it tightly and refrigerate it after mixing. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it just as delicious when baked later. When you’re ready to bake, transfer the dough to your greased pan and let it come to room temperature, allowing it to rise for 2-3 hours before proceeding with the recipe. This way, you’ll save time and still create an irresistible bread that will impress everyone!
Vegan Focaccia Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best flour for Vegan Focaccia?
When selecting flour, I recommend using bread flour for the best results, as it contains more protein than all-purpose flour, resulting in a fluffier texture. However, if you only have all-purpose flour on hand, it will still work beautifully!
What’s the best way to store Vegan Focaccia?
Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days, ensuring it’s wrapped tightly to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze Vegan Focaccia? How?
Absolutely! To freeze your focaccia, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This double wrap prevents freezer burn. Your focaccia will remain delicious for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to regain its fluffy texture.
What if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to expired yeast or water that was too hot or too cold. Always dissolve the yeast in warm water (about 110°F) and check the expiration date before using. If your dough seems too firm, let it sit in a warm area, covered, to encourage rising.
Can pets eat Vegan Focaccia?
It’s best to avoid giving your pets any bread, including Vegan Focaccia, as the ingredients like salt and olive oil may not be suitable for them. Always consult your vet before introducing human food into your pet’s diet.
Are there any common allergens in Vegan Focaccia?
The main ingredients in Vegan Focaccia are flour, yeast, and olive oil, which are generally considered safe. However, if you’re serving someone with a gluten allergy or celiac disease, be sure to use gluten-free flour. Always check for other allergy considerations based on individual preferences.
Vegan Focaccia Recipe FAQs
Irresistibly Fluffy Vegan Focaccia You'll Love to Make
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, stir together the flour, salt, yeast, and sugar using a whisk to blend seamlessly.
- Pour in the warm water and mix with a rubber spatula until a sticky dough forms, roughly 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate 2 tablespoons of olive oil into the bowl, coating the outside of the dough ball.
- Cover the bowl tightly and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours (overnight).
- Grease a 9x13 inch pan with vegan butter and pour 2 tablespoons of olive oil into the center.
- Gently move the dough to the prepared pan, rolling it in the olive oil to coat.
- Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let it rise at room temperature for 2-3 hours.
- Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) while the dough completes its rise.
- If using fresh rosemary, sprinkle it generously over the dough. Drizzle the remaining olive oil on top.
- Use your fingertips to press straight down into the dough, forming deep dimples.
- If desired, gently stretch the dough to fill the pan, then finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
- Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Carefully transfer the focaccia to a cooling rack. Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.