Introduction

As the holiday season approaches, homes are filled with the aroma of baked goods and the warmth of family gatherings. Among the delightful treats you can make this Christmas, a Christmas Tree Focaccia stands out for its cheerful presentation and delicious flavor.

Not only does this festive bread make for an eye-catching centerpiece on your holiday table, but it also allows for creativity with toppings that celebrate the season. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer, side dish, or standalone snack, this focaccia captures the spirit of Christmas baking.

Ingredients

500g bread flour
The backbone of your focaccia, bread flour has a higher protein content than all-purpose flour, resulting in a chewy texture and good structure, perfect for holding the shape of your festive tree.
10g salt
Salt enhances the flavor of the bread and strengthens gluten formation, making your focaccia chewy yet tender.
7g instant yeast
Instant yeast helps the dough rise efficiently without the need for prior activation, allowing for a quicker baking process and a light texture.
350ml warm water
Warm water is essential for activating the yeast without killing it, hydrating the flour and forming the dough’s structure.
50ml olive oil
Olive oil adds moisture and flavor, contributing to the focaccia’s soft crumb and making the crust wonderfully crisp.
Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme)
Herbs impart aromatic flavors to the bread, enhancing its festive appeal, and can be sprinkled throughout the dough or on top for visual and taste contrast.
Cherry tomatoes and olives
Colorful toppings like cherry tomatoes and olives not only add a pop of Christmas color but also bring vivid flavors reminiscent of holiday feasts.
Flaky sea salt (for sprinkling)
Flaky sea salt sprinkled on top enhances the bread’s flavor, providing a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the dough.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the dough.

In a large bowl, combine bread flour, salt, and yeast, mixing dry ingredients evenly. Add warm water and olive oil, and mix until a shaggy dough forms. This initial mixing helps to hydrate the flour, essential for gluten development, which gives the focaccia its structure. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic, making sure to develop the gluten properly for the desired texture.

Step 2: First rise.

Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size. This step is crucial, allowing the yeast to ferment, which produces gases that cause the dough to rise. The environmental conditions are key here; a warm but not too hot area will yield the best results.

Step 3: Shape the focaccia.

Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release the gas. Turn it out onto a floured surface and stretch it into a triangle shape resembling a Christmas tree. This shaping is important, as it creates the visual appeal of your focaccia while also ensuring even baking.

Step 4: Add toppings.

Transfer the shaped dough onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Use your fingers to create indentations across the surface of the dough, which will hold the toppings securely. Place cherry tomatoes and olives strategically to resemble decorations on your culinary Christmas tree. The indentations not only add texture but also help the toppings adhere, enhancing flavors during baking.

Step 5: Second rise.

Cover the topped focaccia with a cloth and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes. This step allows the dough to puff up and become airy, creating a light and desirable texture after baking. Patience is key here as this second rise will make a noticeable difference in the end product.

Step 6: Bake the focaccia.

Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F). Bake the focaccia for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges are nicely crisped. The heat causes the dough to expand and develop a beautiful crust. Keep an eye on it near the end to prevent over-browning while ensuring it cooks fully through.

Step 7: Cool and sprinkle salt.

Once baked, remove the focaccia from the oven and allow it to cool slightly on a rack. Before serving, sprinkle with flaky sea salt to enhance the flavor. Cooling ensures that the crust remains crisp while allowing the flavors to settle, creating a delicious final product.

Creative Toppings for Your Focaccia

Beyond the traditional cherry tomatoes and olives, consider using holiday-themed toppings to make your Christmas Tree Focaccia even more festive. Sliced bell peppers in various colors can mimic ornaments, while strips of roasted peppers can serve as garland. Feta cheese, nuts, or even pomegranate seeds can provide flavor and texture while keeping in line with the holiday spirit.

Pairing Suggestions

This focaccia pairs beautifully with a variety of festive accompaniments. Serve it alongside homemade dips like hummus or spinach-artichoke dip, or as a side to a hearty soup or stew. For a complete holiday spread, include charcuterie items such as cured meats and cheeses, which complement the flavors of the focaccia perfectly.

Making It a Family Activity

Baking Christmas Tree Focaccia can be a lovely family activity, engaging both children and adults. Allow kids to help shape the dough or decorate the tree with toppings, fostering creativity and making it a memorable part of your holiday traditions. This not only teaches valuable cooking skills but also adds a personal touch to your festive gathering.

FAQs

What can I do if my focaccia dough is too sticky?

If your dough feels overly sticky, try adding small amounts of flour gradually while kneading until it reaches a manageable consistency.

How can I know if my focaccia is baked enough?

A perfectly baked focaccia will be golden brown on top with a crust that sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Can I use different herbs for flavoring?

Definitely! While rosemary and thyme are traditional, consider sage, oregano, or even basil for a unique twist.

Is it possible to make the focaccia vegan?

Yes, simply replace the olive oil with vegetable oil and ensure that any toppings used are plant-based for a fully vegan dish.

What if I want a spicier focaccia?

Incorporate spicy elements like crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños among your toppings for added heat.

Can I scale the recipe for smaller gatherings?

Absolutely! You can halve or quarter the recipe while keeping the ratios the same for a smaller focaccia.

Conclusion

Creating a Christmas Tree Focaccia not only provides a delightful addition to your festive table but also offers an opportunity for family bonding during the holiday season. Embrace your creativity with toppings and shapes to make this focaccia your own.

Whether you serve it with a festive spread or enjoy it on its own, this focaccia will surely become a cherished holiday tradition to share with loved ones for years to come.

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