Imagine pulling a golden, aromatic focaccia bread straight from your cast iron skillet, its crispy edges glistening with olive oil and fragrant herbs that will make your entire kitchen smell like an authentic Italian bakery. This Cast Iron Skillet Garlic Herb Focaccia isn't just a bread - it's a culinary experience that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- Sea salt (for topping)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, and salt. Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the warm water and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. The dough should spring back when gently pressed.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a 10-inch cast iron skillet in the oven while it preheats to ensure it gets hot.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer to the hot cast iron skillet. Gently stretch the dough to fill the entire skillet, creating dimples with your fingertips.
- Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the dough, ensuring it pools in the dimples. Sprinkle minced garlic and chopped rosemary evenly across the surface.
- Generously sprinkle sea salt over the top of the focaccia, focusing on the dimpled areas to enhance flavor and create a crispy texture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the top is crisp and lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool in the skillet for 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack and let rest for an additional 10 minutes before slicing.
- Slice into wedges and serve warm. Best enjoyed the same day, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Tips
- • Use warm (not hot) water to activate the yeast without killing it • Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for optimal volume • Don't skip preheating the cast iron skillet - it creates that incredible crispy bottom • Make deep, generous dimples in the dough to capture olive oil and herbs • Use fresh rosemary if possible for the most vibrant flavor • Be generous with sea salt - it enhances the bread's overall taste • Allow the bread to rest briefly after baking to set the texture • Serve warm for the most incredible eating experience
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 160kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
