Focaccia Bread

Focaccia Bread (Overnight Refrigerator Method)

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This easy, no-knead focaccia bread recipe delivers bakery-quality results with minimal effort. Made with just flour, water, yeast, and salt—plus plenty of olive oil—this overnight refrigerator method develops incredible flavor and a perfect, airy texture. It’s ideal for beginners and busy bakers alike. With only 5 minutes of hands-on work, the long rest does all the heavy lifting, creating golden, fluffy, irresistible focaccia every time.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups (512 g) all-purpose or bread flour
  • 2 teaspoons instant yeast (or 2¼ tsp active dry yeast)
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt (or up to 3 teaspoons for a saltier loaf)
  • 2 cups (455 g) lukewarm water
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for greasing and finishing)
  • Butter (for greasing pans; optional but recommended)
  • Flaky sea salt (for topping)
  • Optional toppings: fresh rosemary, sliced cherry tomatoes, olives, caramelized onions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Dough (5 minutes)

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and yeast.
  2. Pour in the lukewarm water. Stir with a spatula or wooden spoon until no dry streaks remain. The dough will be wet and sticky—that’s perfect.
  3. Scrape down the sides and drizzle 1 tablespoon olive oil over the surface. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a reusable lid.

Step 2: Refrigerate Overnight (12–72 hours)

  1. Place the covered bowl in the refrigerator immediately.
  2. Let the dough rest for at least 12 hours, or up to 3 days.
  3. During this time, the dough will rise slowly, ferment, and develop flavor.

📝 Note: The longer it rests, the more flavor and bubbles it will develop. A 24–48 hour rest is ideal for maximum fluff and flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Pan

  1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 8–9-inch round pans generously with butter or olive oil.
  2. Pour 1 tablespoon of olive oil into the pan(s) to coat the bottom completely. This helps create that signature crispy crust.

Step 4: Transfer the Dough

  1. Remove the dough from the fridge.
  2. Use two forks to deflate it by pulling from the sides toward the center, turning the bowl as you go—like folding batter.
  3. Divide the dough if using two pans. Transfer to your prepared baking pan(s), turning the dough over once so it’s coated in oil on both sides.
  4. Let the dough rest in the pan at room temperature for 3 to 4 hours, uncovered.

Step 5: Dimple and Add Toppings

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. When the dough has puffed and is visibly airy, drizzle 1–2 tablespoons more olive oil on top.
  3. Use your fingers to press deep dimples into the dough—go all the way to the bottom of the pan.
  4. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and add any toppings you like (e.g., rosemary, olives, sliced tomatoes).
Focaccia Bread

Step 6: Bake (25–30 minutes)

  1. Place the pan(s) in the center rack of your preheated oven.
  2. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until deeply golden brown on top and crisp on the bottom.
  3. Remove and let cool for at least 10–15 minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.
  4. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Focaccia Bread

Storage & Reheating

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • To reheat, place slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes to revive the crust.
  • You can also freeze focaccia for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a hot oven until crisp.

Serving Ideas

  • Pair with a bowl of soup or stew
  • Use as sandwich bread (slice in half)
  • Dip in olive oil + balsamic vinegar
  • Serve as an appetizer with antipasto or charcuterie

Tips & Variations

  • For thinner focaccia: Use a sheet pan for wider surface area.
  • For thicker, fluffier bread: Use a smaller baking pan like 9×13 or two cake pans.
  • For extra crunch: Add a bit of semolina or cornmeal to the pan before placing the dough.
  • Flavor twist: Add garlic powder, za’atar, or chili flakes to the olive oil before drizzling.

Final Thoughts

This overnight focaccia bread is a game changer. With just a handful of ingredients and almost no effort, you can create a bakery-quality loaf that’s crispy on the outside, fluffy inside, and endlessly versatile. It’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights, meal prep, or an impressive party platter.

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