Cinnamon Focaccia

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with the simplicity of bread, then Cinnamon Focaccia is just what you need! This recipe has become a cherished favorite in my home because it’s perfect for any occasion—from busy weeknights to festive family gatherings. There’s something so heartwarming about pulling apart a fluffy, warm piece of focaccia, all while the sweet aroma fills your kitchen.

What makes this Cinnamon Focaccia truly special is how easy it is to make. You can prepare the dough overnight, letting it rise in the fridge, and then bake it fresh the next day. It’s like having your own little bakery right at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal hands-on time, this focaccia comes together effortlessly.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cinnamon! This treat is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this delicious focaccia fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it the night before and bake it fresh when you need it—so simple!
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of brown butter, cinnamon, and vanilla icing makes every bite heavenly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful Cinnamon Focaccia, you’ll only need a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. I love that they are all pantry staples you might already have on hand!

• 2 cups warm water (heated to about 110℉)
• 2 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tsp white granulated sugar
• 4 cups bread flour (spooned and leveled)
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
• 6 tbsp brown butter (see notes below)
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar
• 2 tsp cinnamon
• 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 tbsp milk (adjust for desired consistency)

Variations

One of the best things about this Cinnamon Focaccia recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and add your personal touch. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch.
• Fruit Twist: Include dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a burst of sweetness.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom alongside the cinnamon.
• Glaze Alternatives: Swap out vanilla icing for a cream cheese glaze if you’re feeling indulgent!

How to Make Cinnamon Focaccia

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm water (about 110℉) with granulated sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step is crucial as it wakes up the yeast, ensuring your focaccia will rise beautifully!

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together bread flour and salt. Pour in the activated yeast mixture along with olive oil. Stir everything together until a sticky dough forms. Lightly rub the surface of the dough with olive oil; this prevents sticking and keeps it moist.

Step 3: First Rise

Cover your bowl with a damp tea towel or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours. This slow rise develops amazing flavor—trust me on this one!

Step 4: Second Rise

Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper. Pour in two tablespoons of melted butter into the center of the pan. Gently deflate your dough by pulling it from the sides of the bowl towards the center several times. Then place it into your buttered pan, cover again, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1½ to 2 hours.

Step 5: Make the Brown Butter

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt half a cup of butter. Stir continuously until you notice a nutty aroma and see that golden-amber color form—this process brings out such rich flavors! Remove from heat immediately to avoid burning.

Step 6: Make the Cinnamon Topping

Add light brown sugar and cinnamon to your browned butter mixture, stirring until it’s well combined and smooth. This topping will create those luscious pockets of sweetness throughout your focaccia.

Step 7: Dimple the Dough

Preheat your oven to 450℉. Once your dough has risen again, wet your fingertips and press deep dimples all over its surface. Drizzle that delicious cinnamon-butter evenly over these dimples—it’ll soak in beautifully while baking.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Allow cooling for about ten minutes in the pan before transferring to a cooling rack. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be simply irresistible!

Step 9: Finish with Vanilla Icing

In a bowl, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth to create your icing drizzle. Once cooled slightly, drizzle this icing over your warm focaccia—every bite will be pure bliss! Slice into squares and enjoy every fluffy morsel!

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Focaccia

Creating the perfect Cinnamon Focaccia is all about attention to detail and a little bit of patience. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your focaccia turns out deliciously every time!

• Use fresh yeast: Always check the expiration date on your yeast. Fresh yeast will activate properly, ensuring your dough rises beautifully.

• Control the temperature: If your kitchen is too cold, consider placing the dough in a warm spot or using the oven (off) with the light on to create a warm environment for rising.

• Don’t rush the rising times: Allowing the dough to rise adequately develops flavor and texture. Patience pays off when it comes to bread-making!

• Experiment with toppings: While cinnamon sugar is delicious, feel free to experiment with other toppings like chopped nuts or chocolate chips for your own twist on this recipe.

• Adjust icing consistency: If you prefer a thicker icing, use less milk; for a drizzle that’s easier to pour, add more milk. This way, you can customize it according to your taste preference!

How to Serve Cinnamon Focaccia

Cinnamon Focaccia is not just about flavor; it’s also about presentation! Here are some delightful ways to serve this delectable dish that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts on top of the icing for added crunch and flavor.
• Fresh fruit: Add slices of strawberries or a handful of blueberries beside your focaccia for a refreshing contrast.
• Mint leaves: A few fresh mint leaves can provide a pop of color and a hint of freshness that complements the warm spices.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt with honey: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt drizzled with honey makes a perfect side that balances sweetness with tanginess.
• Fresh fruit salad: A medley of seasonal fruits can lighten up your meal, adding vibrant colors and refreshing tastes.
• Chai tea: The warm spices in chai tea pair beautifully with cinnamon focaccia, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for brunch or dessert.
• Coffee or espresso: A strong cup of coffee enhances the flavors in the focaccia and makes for an inviting breakfast option.

Enjoy serving this delightful Cinnamon Focaccia at your next gathering or simply savoring it at home! Each bite is sure to bring warmth and joy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Cinnamon Focaccia is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its warm, cinnamon goodness whenever you want. Here’s how you can store and reheat your delicious creation!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If you have more focaccia than you can eat, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, slice the focaccia into squares and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen solid, transfer the pieces to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat slices in an oven preheated to 350℉ for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave individual slices for about 20-30 seconds, but note that this may make the edges less crispy.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Cinnamon Focaccia.

Can I make Cinnamon Focaccia without brown butter?

Absolutely! You can substitute regular melted unsalted butter if you prefer a simpler flavor profile. The texture will still be delightful!

How do I know when my Cinnamon Focaccia is done baking?

Your focaccia is ready when it turns golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Enjoy that lovely aroma filling your kitchen!

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour for Cinnamon Focaccia?

Yes, all-purpose flour can work as a substitute. However, using bread flour will give you that chewy texture that’s characteristic of focaccia.

Is it possible to add toppings to Cinnamon Focaccia?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with toppings like nuts or chocolate chips before baking for an extra layer of flavor.

How long does it take to rise the dough for Cinnamon Focaccia?

The total rising time is approximately 12-14 hours: 12 hours in the refrigerator and then another 1.5-2 hours at room temperature during the second rise.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Cinnamon Focaccia recipe brings warmth and joy into your kitchen! Its easy preparation and indulgent flavors make it a truly special treat for any occasion. Enjoy the process of making it and savor every delightful bite! Don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations—you might inspire someone else to try their hand at this comforting classic!