Get ready to transform your kitchen into an Italian bakery with the most irresistible Bacon and Cheese Focaccia Bread that will make your taste buds dance! Imagine pulling a golden, crispy, cheese-laden focaccia out of the oven, with crisp bacon pieces scattered across its dimpled surface, releasing an aroma that will have everyone in your home racing to the kitchen. This isn't just bread - it's a flavor-packed masterpiece that combines the rustic charm of traditional Italian focaccia with the indulgent comfort of crispy bacon and melted cheese.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 1 focaccia
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (rosemary or thyme)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is activated.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Mix well to ensure the salt is evenly distributed.
- Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the flour mixture along with the olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
- Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 20 minutes or until it has doubled in size.
- While the dough is rising, prepare the bacon and cheese. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the skillet, drain on paper towels, and crumble into small pieces. Shred the cheese if not already shredded.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a greased baking sheet or a 9x13 inch baking pan. Use your fingers to stretch and press the dough out to fit the pan.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once the dough is in the pan, use your fingers to create dimples all over the surface of the dough.
- Evenly distribute the crumbled bacon and shredded cheese over the top of the dough. Sprinkle the dried herbs over the cheese and bacon for added flavor.
- Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of the focaccia. This will help it brown nicely while baking.
- Place the focaccia in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Once baked, remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool slightly before slicing.
- Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious Bacon and Cheese Focaccia Bread!
Tips
- Ensure your water is warm (not hot) when activating the yeast to prevent killing the yeast culture.
- Let the dough rise in a draft-free, warm area for optimal volume and texture.
- Don't skip creating dimples in the dough - they're not just decorative but help capture olive oil and create those signature focaccia texture pockets.
- Use high-quality cheese that melts well, like sharp cheddar or fresh mozzarella.
- For extra flavor, try adding fresh herbs like chopped rosemary or thyme directly into the dough.
- Let the focaccia cool slightly before cutting to help it set and prevent falling apart.
- This bread is best served warm, but can be reheated in an oven to restore its crispy texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
