As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet aroma of baking bread filled the air, and a joyful smile spread across my face. There’s something truly magical about making bread from scratch, and today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam. This delightful treat features a wonderfully airy dough infused with rich raspberry jam, offering a balance of sweetness that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Perfect for brunch or dessert, this bread presents two irresistible perks: the thrill of homemade baking and an easy, crowd-pleasing dish everyone will love. Just imagine breaking off a warm piece, the gooey jam oozing out, while you sip your coffee or tea amidst good company. Ready to transform your brunch table? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe together! Why is Sweet Focaccia Irresistible? Delightful Aroma: As it bakes, the scent of warm bread and sweet raspberry wafts through your kitchen, beckoning everyone to gather. Versatile Treat: Perfect for brunch, a cozy dessert, or a simple afternoon snack. You can enjoy it solo or impress guests on special occasions. Unique Twist: This recipe transforms traditional focaccia into a sweet experience, reminiscent of a jelly-filled donut that’s both fun and indulgent. Easy Steps: Even if you’re a novice baker, the straightforward steps will guide you to perfect results, making this a great choice for beginners ready to impress. Crowd-Pleasing: Watching family and friends savor each bite will bring you joy; nothing beats the happiness of sharing homemade goodness! Perfect Pairing: Enjoy it warm with a cup of coffee or a glass of refreshing iced tea, making it an ideal addition to any brunch spread! Pair it with a side of Raspberry Pistachio Mousse for a complete treat! Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam Ingredients For the Dough Warm Water (1 ¾ cups) – Activates the yeast for proper dough fermentation; use water at 105-115°F for optimal activation. Sugar (2 tsp) – Provides essential sweetness and helps activate the yeast; can substitute with honey if preferred. Active Dry Yeast (1 packet) – Lights up the dough, creating a fluffy texture when fresh; check the expiration date for the best results. Bread Flour (2 cups) – Gives your focaccia structure and chewiness; interchangeable with all-purpose flour, but results may vary. All-Purpose Flour (2 cups) – Adds lovely softness and lightness; can switch with bread flour for a different texture. Salt (2 tsp) – Enhances flavor and strengthens gluten structure; essential for taste with no suitable substitutes recommended. Olive Oil (6 tbsp, divided) – Adds moisture and richness; don’t skimp, as it’s key to a successful, high-hydration dough. For the Filling and Glaze Raspberry Jam (1 jar) – Infuses sweetness and fruity flavor; Bonne Maman is recommended for the best taste experience. Powdered Sugar (2 cups) – Used for the icing to create your sweet glaze; no substitutions necessary. Milk (2-4 tbsp) – Adjusts icing consistency; whole milk is recommended, but you can substitute with plant-based options for a dairy-free version. This Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam will undoubtedly become a delightful addition to your brunch or dessert table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam Step 1: Yeast Activation In the bowl of a stand mixer, warm 1 ¾ cups of water to 105-115°F. Stir in 2 teaspoons of sugar, then sprinkle in 1 packet of active dry yeast. Allow this mixture to sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly, signaling that the yeast is activated and ready to bring your Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam to life. Step 2: Dough Preparation Combine 2 cups of bread flour, 2 cups of all-purpose flour, and 2 teaspoons of salt in a large bowl. Gradually add the yeast mixture into the flour, mixing with a dough hook on low speed until a sticky dough forms. This dough will be quite moist, and it should come together nicely, showing signs of elasticity, indicating it’s ready for the next rise. Step 3: First Rise Lightly coat a large bowl with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Place the sticky dough inside, turning it to coat in the oil. Cover the bowl with a damp kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This process will create those wonderful air pockets that make your focaccia fluffy. Step 4: Second Rise Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Transfer the dough into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, folding it to coat with an additional 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Cover again with the damp towel and let it rise for another hour in a warm spot, until it puffs up and fills the pan beautifully. Step 5: Prepare for Baking After the second rise, preheat your oven to 425°F. Use your fingers to make deep dimples all over the surface of the dough to create pockets for the jam. Next, generously spread your favorite raspberry jam over the surface, allowing it to seep into the dimples, creating delicious, jam-filled spots throughout the Sweet Focaccia. Step 6: Bake Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. As it bakes, watch for a golden-brown color and a slight puffing in the center. The delightful aroma of sweet bread will fill your kitchen, signaling that it’s almost ready to enjoy. Step 7: Add Jam Filling After baking, allow the focaccia to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan. Use a straw to poke holes in the top, then drizzle more raspberry jam into the holes, ensuring every bite of your Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam is delectably sweet and fruity. Step 8: Prepare Icing While your focaccia cools, mix together 2 cups of powdered sugar with 2-4 tablespoons of milk in a bowl. Stir until the glaze reaches your desired consistency. Aim for a thick yet pourable texture that will beautifully frosted each piece of focaccia when the time comes to serve. Step 9: Serve After the focaccia has cooled slightly, flip it over to glaze the bottom first, then frost the top with the icing for that classic sweet finish. Cut it into squares and serve warm with a cup of coffee or tea, letting your guests indulge in this charming homemade treat! How to Store and Freeze Sweet Focaccia Room Temperature: Enjoy your Sweet Focaccia best the same day it’s made. If you have leftovers, store them in a cool, dry place, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 days. Fridge: If you prefer longer storage, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just remember that refrigeration may affect its texture slightly. Freezer: For long-term storage, slice the focaccia and place it in a ziplock bag in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: To enjoy frozen slices, simply thaw at room temperature, then warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to revive the fresh-baked taste of your Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam. Make Ahead Options These Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the steps up to the second rise. Simply cover your greased 9×13 pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to proceed, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes before continuing with step 5. Additionally, you can make the icing and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days; just give it a gentle stir before frosting. This way, you can have warm, homemade Sweet Focaccia ready to enjoy on busy mornings with minimal effort, all while maintaining its delightful fluffiness and flavor! What to Serve with Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam Imagine gathering your loved ones around the table, indulging in a symphony of flavors that perfectly complements the sweetness of this delightful focaccia. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their rich, buttery texture provides a delicious contrast to the airy focaccia, making for a satisfying meal. Spinach and Feta Quiche: This savory dish adds a burst of flavor and a delightful balance that pairs beautifully with the sweet notes of the focaccia. Its creamy feta complements the raspberry jam perfectly. Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with tangy vinaigrette cleanses the palate, enhancing the sweetness of the focaccia, while adding a crunchy texture to your meal. Sparkling Lemonade: The bright, citrusy flavors of chilled sparkling lemonade will invigorate your taste buds, making the perfect drink to wash down the sweet focaccia. Berry Compote: An additional layer of fruity goodness, this warm compote can be drizzled on top or served on the side, enhancing the raspberry experience while adding more depth to the meal. Vanilla Ice Cream: For dessert, pair the focaccia with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The heat of the bread with the cold ice cream creates an irresistible contrast! Fresh Mint Tea: A soothing, herbal beverage that complements the sweetness while adding a refreshing touch, perfect for winding down after a delightful brunch. Nutty Granola Bar: For a quick snack option, pair the focaccia with a crunchy granola bar. The nuts and oats bring texture, balancing the sweet and soft focaccia. Coffee or Chai Latte: Both beverages have warm, aromatic qualities, enhancing the overall experience and rounding out your meal with comfort and coziness. Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam Variations Feel free to customize this scrumptious recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences! Raspberry Substitution: Swap raspberry jam for strawberry or cherry jam for a delightful flavor twist. Each option brings its own fruity charm! Herb Infusion: Sprinkle some fresh rosemary or thyme on top before baking for an enticing herbal note that complements the sweetness beautifully. The combination creates an aromatic experience that delights the senses. Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus burst. It adds brightness and makes each bite even more engaging. Nutty Texture: Fold in a handful of chopped pistachios or almonds into the dough for an enjoyable crunch. This touch of nuttiness elevates your Sweet Focaccia and adds another layer of flavor. Cinnamon Sugar Twist: Before baking, sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar on top of the dough for a cozy, sweet aroma that fills your kitchen. It’s perfect for a comforting snack any time of the year! Spicy Kick: Drizzle some jalapeño jelly on top instead of raspberry for those who enjoy a spicy-sweet combination. The heat adds an exciting dimension to this sweet treat! Gluten-Free Options: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour to make this recipe gluten-friendly. While the texture may vary slightly, you’ll still enjoy a delicious focaccia. Vegan Variation: Substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use vegan butter in place of olive oil for a completely plant-based version. You’ll still get that delightful sweetness while catering to dietary needs. For even more delicious recipes to round out your brunch table, consider making Sweet Hawaiian Chicken or serving a refreshing Lemonade Twist alongside! Expert Tips for Sweet Focaccia Temperature Matters: Ensure your warm water is between 105-115°F to activate the yeast effectively. Too hot can kill it, while too cold won’t activate it. Flour Blend: Stick to the ratio of bread flour and all-purpose flour for the best texture. Too much of one or the other can alter the dough’s fluffiness in your Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam. Be Generous with Oil: Use ample olive oil to keep your high-hydration dough moist and prevent it from sticking. This contributes to a rich, flavorful focaccia. Dimples Must Be Deep: When creating dimples in the dough, be sure they are deep enough to hold the jam. This ensures every bite is filled with that delightful raspberry goodness. Fresh Ingredients: Always check your yeast expiration date. Using fresh active dry yeast is crucial for achieving that fluffy, airy texture you want in your focaccia. Serve Immediately: While it’s tempting to save a slice for later, this focaccia is best enjoyed fresh from the oven. Its texture and flavor are most delightful when warm! Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam Recipe FAQs What should I look for when selecting raspberries for the jam? Absolutely! When choosing raspberries, select those that are plump, firm, and vibrant in color. Avoid berries with mold or dark spots, as these indicate over-ripeness. Fresh raspberries should also have a slightly tart aroma, indicating a balanced sweetness. If you’re using jam instead, I recommend Bonne Maman for its rich flavor that complements the focaccia perfectly. How should I store my Sweet Focaccia? This delicious Sweet Focaccia is best enjoyed the same day, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer to extend its shelf life, refrigeration is an option; just keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly. Wrap it tightly to maintain its scrumptiousness! Can I freeze Sweet Focaccia and how? Very! Freezing is a great way to preserve your Sweet Focaccia. Once it has fully cooled, slice it into squares and place each piece in a ziplock bag, ensuring it’s sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. To enjoy later, simply thaw at room temperature, and then warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste! What if my dough isn’t rising properly? Don’t worry; it happens! If your dough is not rising, first check the temperature of your yeast activation liquid—it should be between 105-115°F. If it’s too hot or cold, it can hinder the yeast action. If you’re using old yeast, it might not be active. Make sure to give your dough ample time in a warm area without drafts; sometimes, a little extra time makes all the difference. Is this Sweet Focaccia suitable for people with nut allergies? Absolutely! This recipe is inherently free of nuts, making it safe for those with nut allergies. Just double-check that the jams and any substitute ingredients, like plant-based milk, are also nut-free to ensure everyone can enjoy this delightful treat. What can I do if the icing is too thick? If you’re finding the icing is too thick while you’re preparing it, simply add more milk in small increments until you reach the desired pourable consistency. I often start with 2 tablespoons and add slowly, mixing thoroughly to get that perfect glaze that will beautifully frost your Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam! Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam – Your New Favorite Brunch Treat Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam is a delightful, homemade treat perfect for brunch or dessert, featuring a fluffy dough and rich jam. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 22 minutes minsRising Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 3 hours hrs 2 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: ItalianCalories: 220 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough1.75 cups Warm Water At 105-115°F for yeast activation.2 tsp Sugar Essential for sweetness and yeast.1 packet Active Dry Yeast Check expiration date for best results.2 cups Bread Flour Provides structure and chewiness.2 cups All-Purpose Flour Adds softness and lightness.2 tsp Salt Enhances flavor; no suitable substitutes.6 tbsp Olive Oil Divided for moisture and richness.For the Filling and Glaze1 jar Raspberry Jam Bonne Maman recommended.2 cups Powdered Sugar For icing glaze.2-4 tbsp Milk Adjusts icing consistency. Equipment Stand Mixer9x13-inch Baking Pan Method Yeast ActivationWarm 1 ¾ cups of water to 105-115°F. Stir in 2 teaspoons of sugar, sprinkle in 1 packet of active dry yeast, and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Dough PreparationIn a large bowl, combine 2 cups of bread flour, 2 cups of all-purpose flour, and 2 teaspoons of salt. Gradually add yeast mixture while mixing on low speed with a dough hook until sticky dough forms. First RiseLightly coat a large bowl with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Place the dough inside, turning to coat. Cover with a damp towel and let rise for 1 hour until doubled in size. Second RisePunch down the dough. Transfer into a greased 9x13-inch baking pan, folding to coat with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Cover and let rise for another hour. Prepare for BakingPreheat oven to 425°F. Create dimples in the dough and generously spread raspberry jam over the surface, ensuring it seeps into the dimples. BakeBake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes until golden brown. Enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen. Add Jam FillingCool for 10 minutes in the pan. Poke holes in the top and drizzle more raspberry jam into the holes. Prepare IcingMix 2 cups of powdered sugar with 2-4 tablespoons of milk until you reach your desired glaze consistency. ServeGlaze the bottom first, then frost the top with icing. Cut into squares and serve warm with coffee or tea. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gSodium: 200mgPotassium: 50mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gCalcium: 10mgIron: 1mg NotesEnjoy your Sweet Focaccia best the same day it’s made. Store leftovers wrapped tightly in plastic for up to 3 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
