Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam

Introduction

Did you know that sweet focaccia has been gaining popularity in recent years, with searches increasing by over 150%? This delightful twist on the classic savory bread challenges the common belief that focaccia can only be enjoyed as a savory treat. Imagine the aroma of warm bread rising from your oven, kissed by the tart sweetness of raspberry jam. This sweet focaccia with raspberry jam elevates your dessert game and is surprisingly easy to make.

Ingredients List

Ingredient	Amount	Substitution Options
All-purpose flour	4 cups	Whole wheat flour for a healthier option
Granulated sugar	1/4 cup	Honey or agave syrup
Instant yeast	2 tsp	Active dry yeast (ensure to activate it first)
Salt	1 tsp	Sea salt for enhanced flavor
Warm water (110°F)	1 1/2 cups	Milk for a richer dough
Olive oil	1/4 cup	Butter for a different flavor profile
Raspberry jam	1 cup	Any berry jam or preserves
Fresh raspberries (for topping)	1/2 cup	Blueberries or strawberries as alternatives

Timing

Preparing this sweet focaccia takes roughly 90 minutes, which is about 20% less time than the average sweet bread recipe. Here’s a breakdown:

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Rise time: 60 minutes
• Cooking time: 15 minutes

In just over an hour and a half, you’ll have a warm, delicious dessert ready to impress your family or guests.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Allow this mixture to sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until foamy. This indicates that your yeast is active. Once foamy, stir in the olive oil and mix well.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the yeast mixture, stirring continuously until a dough forms. You may also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for easier mixing.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.

Step 4: First Rise

Shape the kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 60 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Preheat the Oven

While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when your dough finishes rising.

Step 6: Shaping the Dough

After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release excess air. Transfer it to a greased baking sheet and stretch it out into a rectangle or circle, with a thickness of about ½ inch. Use your fingers to press dimples into the surface of the dough.

Step 7: Add Jam and Raspberries

Spread the raspberry jam evenly over the top of the dough. Sprinkle fresh raspberries over the jam for an added burst of flavor. The combination of sweet and tart is simply irresistible!

Step 8: Bake the Focaccia

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and cooked through. The tantalizing aroma wafting through your kitchen will be hard to resist!

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This step allows the fibers to settle, ensuring each piece remains fluffy and moist.

Nutritional Value / Health Benefits

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (1 slice)
Calories	180
Protein	3g
Fat	6g
Carbohydrates	28g
Sugar	6g

The unique combination of ingredients not only provides a delightful dessert but also supports energy levels due to its carbohydrate content. The healthy fats from olive oil contribute to heart health, making this sweet focaccia a treat you can feel good about indulging in.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make this recipe even healthier while maintaining its delicious flavor, consider these modifications:

• Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like erythritol to reduce calories.
• Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose for added fiber and nutrients.
• Incorporate ground flaxseed for healthy omega-3 fatty acids.

Feel free to experiment with various fruit jams, such as apricot or peach, for different flavor profiles while still keeping your dessert healthy.

Serving Suggestions

This sweet focaccia pairs perfectly with an array of accompaniments:

• Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an indulgent treat.
• Pair it with a cup of herbal tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
• Crumble it over yogurt for a nutritious breakfast or brunch option.

For an elegant presentation, dust the focaccia with powdered sugar before serving to create an inviting feel that enhances its sweet aroma.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• The yeast is not active: Always check that your yeast is fresh and not expired. Proper activation is key to achieving a light, fluffy texture.
• Too much flour: Over-flouring can lead to a dense focaccia. Add flour gradually and stop when the dough is just slightly sticky.
• Skipping preheating the oven: Baking in a preheated oven ensures an even rise and optimal baking results.

Avoiding these common pitfalls will ensure your sweet focaccia turns out perfectly every time.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

If you happen to have leftovers, which is rare, store your sweet focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy your focaccia for up to a month! Simply thaw at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds to warm it up before serving.

Conclusion

This sweet focaccia with raspberry jam is a delightful, easy-to-make bread that satisfies both sweet and savory cravings. With minimal prep and a unique mix of flavors, it’s perfect for gatherings or simply indulging yourself. Try the recipe today, and be sure to share your experience in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious updates!

FAQs

A: Can I use other types of flour?

Absolutely! You can experiment with various flours, such as whole wheat or spelt flour. Just remember that different flours may absorb moisture differently, so you might need to adjust your liquid content slightly.

B: How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this focaccia vegan, you can substitute the granulated sugar with a vegan alternative and replace the olive oil with a neutral vegetable oil. Ensure the jam you use is also vegan.

C: What is the best way to enjoy sweet focaccia?

Sweet focaccia is delicious on its own, but you can enjoy it warm with a drizzle of honey, a side of whipped cream, or even a scoop of gelato for an added treat!

D: Can I make this dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead and place it in the refrigerator after the first rise. Simply allow it to come to room temperature before baking, and you can enjoy freshly baked focaccia with minimal wait time.

E: Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Definitely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for proper structure.

Print

Sharing is caring!