This Herb Focaccia Bread combines a soft, airy dough with a golden, crispy crust, topped with fragrant rosemary, thyme, and oregano. Made with active dry yeast, it’s an easy, beginner-friendly recipe that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Perfect as a side, sandwich base, or appetizer!
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Mediterranean
Keyword no-knead, spring
Prep Time 15 minutesminutes
Cook Time 25 minutesminutes
Rise Time 2 hourshours30 minutesminutes
Total Time 3 hourshours10 minutesminutes
Servings 12squares
Ingredients
For the Dough:
4c.all-purpose flouror bread flour for extra chewiness (500g)
1tsp.fresh oregano, finely chopped(or ½ tsp. dried)
1-2clovesgarlic, minced(optional)
Coarse sea saltto taste
Freshly ground black pepperoptional
Instructions
Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine 1 ¾ c. lukewarm water (420g), 2 tsp. active dry yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 c. all-purpose flour (500g) and 1 ½ tsp. salt. Once the yeast is foamy, add it to the dry ingredients along with 2 tbsp. olive oil (30g). Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy, sticky dough forms—no need to knead extensively, just ensure everything is combined.
First Rise: Cover the bowl with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise at room temperature for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size. For a deeper flavor, refrigerate it for 8-24 hours instead.
Shape the Dough: Generously oil a 9x13-inch baking pan with olive oil. Transfer the dough to the pan and gently stretch it to fit, pressing it out with your fingertips. It’ll relax further during the next rise.
Second Rise: Cover the pan and let the dough rise for another 30-45 minutes, until puffy. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) during the last 15 minutes.
Add Toppings: Use your fingertips to dimple the dough’s surface, creating wells. Drizzle 3 tbsp. olive oil (45g) over the top, letting it pool in the dimples. Sprinkle the rosemary, thyme, oregano, and garlic (if using) evenly, then finish with coarse sea salt and black pepper.
Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped. Rotate the pan halfway through for even baking.
Cool and Serve: Let it cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice into squares or strips and serve warm.
Notes
Yeast Tip: If the yeast doesn’t foam, it may be expired—test with fresh yeast for best results.
Flavor Boost: The fridge rise option adds complexity—try it if you have time!
Storage: Keeps at room temp for 2 days or freezes for up to 1 month; reheat in the oven for crispness.