Name: Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam for a Brunch Dream Come True
Prep time: 120 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 264 min
Ingredients: 1.75 cups Warm Water (105-115°F); 2 tsp Sugar (Feeds the yeast); 1 packet Active Dry Yeast (Check freshness); 2 cups Bread Flour (Contributes chewiness); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Ensures lightness); 2 tsp Salt (Enhances flavor); 6 tbsp Olive Oil (Divided for moisture); 1 jar Raspberry Jam (Bonne Maman recommended); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (For luscious coating); 2-4 tbsp Milk (Adjusts glaze consistency)

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The aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the house can transform an ordinary day into something special. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam—a delightful twist on a classic Italian bread that will have your friends and family asking for seconds. This fluffy focaccia marries the airy texture of homemade dough with the luscious sweetness of raspberry jam, making it a perfect treat for brunch or a delightful dessert. Not only is this recipe easy to whip up, but it also brings a gourmet touch to your table without much fuss. The sugary glaze gives it that extra layer of yum, reminiscent of your favorite jelly-filled doughnuts but with a stunning homemade flair. Are you ready to dive into this sweet adventure? Let’s get baking!

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Why is this Sweet Focaccia special?

Irresistible taste: The combination of fluffy dough and rich raspberry jam offers a burst of flavor that delights every bite. Easy to make: You don’t need to be a pro baker; just a few simple steps, and you’re on your way to a delicious treat. Perfect for gatherings: This Sweet Focaccia is great for brunch with friends or as a charming dessert for family meals. Versatile options: Feel free to swap out the raspberry jam for something fruity like Raspberry Lemon Heaven or even a savory twist. Light and airy: Unlike typical sweet breads, its texture is fluffy and less dense, making it feel delightful. Get ready for compliments – this treat will steal the show!

Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam Ingredients

• Discover all the lovely components needed for your Sweet Focaccia!

For the Dough

Warm Water (1¾ cups, 105-115°F) – Activates yeast for perfect dough rise; ensure it’s not scalding hot.
Sugar (2 tsp) – Feeds the yeast, helping it rise beautifully.
Active Dry Yeast (1 packet) – Essential for leavening; always check freshness for the best results.
Bread Flour (2 cups) – Contributes chewiness and structure to your focaccia.
All-Purpose Flour (2 cups) – Balances texture, ensuring lightness in every bite.
Salt (2 tsp) – Enhances all flavors and strengthens the dough’s gluten.
Olive Oil (6 tbsp, divided) – Adds moisture and rich flavor; essential for a tender crust.

For the Topping

Raspberry Jam (1 jar) – Provides delectable sweetness and flavor; Bonne Maman is a fantastic choice.

For the Glaze

Powdered Sugar (2 cups) – Creates a sweet, luscious coating for finishing touches.
Milk (2-4 tbsp) – Adjusts the glaze consistency; whole milk is perfect for creamy richness.

Embrace these ingredients, and soon you’ll have a fluffy, sweet focaccia with raspberry jam that takes brunch to a whole new level!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam

Step 1: Yeast Activation
In a medium bowl, combine 1¾ cups of warm water (between 105-115°F) with 2 teaspoons of sugar, stirring gently until dissolved. Sprinkle in one packet of active dry yeast and let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This activation is crucial for your Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam to rise beautifully!

Step 2: Dough Preparation
In a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine 2 cups of bread flour, 2 cups of all-purpose flour, and 2 teaspoons of salt. Once your yeast mixture is bubbly, gradually add it to the flour mixture while mixing on low speed. Knead until a sticky dough forms, which should take about 5-7 minutes. The dough should be soft and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise
Lightly grease a large bowl with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then place the dough inside. Turn to coat it lightly with the oil, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour, until it has doubled in size. This step is essential for achieving that fluffy texture in your Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam.

Step 4: Pan Prep
While the dough rises, prepare a 9×13 inch pan by greasing it generously with olive oil. Once the dough has risen, gently transfer it to the prepared pan, folding it over itself to retain air bubbles. Spread it out until it evenly covers the bottom, ensuring it is well-coated in olive oil.

Step 5: Second Rise
Cover the dough again with a towel and let it rise for another hour in a warm place. During this time, it will puff up even more, creating that light, airy texture characteristic of Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam.

Step 6: Pre-Baking Prep
Preheat your oven to 425°F. After the second rise, use your fingers to poke numerous holes in the surface of the dough, creating dimples to hold the raspberry jam. Gently spoon the raspberry jam over the top, ensuring it seeps into the holes for maximum flavor infusion.

Step 7: Baking
Bake your Sweet Focaccia for approximately 18-22 minutes, or until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the edges are crisp. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent over-baking; you want it fluffy and tender!

Step 8: Filling Holes
As soon as it comes out of the oven, take a skewer or your fingers to poke additional holes into the focaccia and spoon in more raspberry jam. This step enhances the sweetness and ensures every bite is luscious and jam-packed.

Step 9: Glaze Preparation
In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of powdered sugar with 2-4 tablespoons of milk until you achieve your desired glaze consistency. Beat it until smooth; it should be thick yet pourable for a beautiful finish on your focaccia.

Step 10: Finishing Touch
Once the focaccia has cooled slightly, drizzle or spread the glaze over the top, and if you prefer, the bottom as well for a delightful, donut-like experience. Cut into squares and savor the marvel of your creation, a Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam that’s perfect for any occasion.

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How to Store and Freeze Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam

Airtight Container: Store your Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its softness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight.

Reheating: To revive its fluffy texture, reheat individual slices in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes, or until warm throughout.

Glaze Freshness: If you have leftover glaze, store it separately in the fridge for up to a week and reapply on warmed focaccia before serving to enhance its sweetness.

What to Serve with Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam

This delightful bread pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments that will elevate your brunch experience.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their rich, buttery flavor creates a comforting contrast to the sweet focaccia, making every bite a treat.
Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche adds a savory balance to the sweetness, making this combination perfect for a hearty brunch spread.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of vibrant fruits brings freshness and zing, complementing the rich raspberry jam on the focaccia.
Velvety Greek Yogurt: The creaminess of yogurt drizzled with honey provides a deliciously tangy contrast, enhancing your flavor experience.
Herbed Baby Potatoes: The crispy edges and subtle earthy flavors of these potatoes offer a delightful crunch against the fluffy sweetness of the focaccia.
Espresso or Coffee: A robust cup of coffee pairs wonderfully, cutting through the sweetness and making every bite more enjoyable.
Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of lightly sweetened, whipped cream on the side can turn the focaccia into a dreamy dessert that everyone will adore.
Honey Citrus Dressing: Drizzling a light honey citrus dressing on the focaccia will highlight its jammy flavor while adding an extra layer of brightness.
Sparkling Water with Mint: Refreshing and bubbly, this drink complements the sweet focaccia and keeps your palate feeling clean.
Dark Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: For dessert lovers, combining focaccia with rich dark chocolate strawberries makes for an indulgent finish to your meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam are perfect for busy weeknights or brunch prep! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following steps 1 through 5, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply take it out, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and then proceed to step 6. If you’d like, you can also poke holes and spread the raspberry jam in advance; just refrigerate it without glaze and add the glaze right before serving for that perfect finish. This way, you’ll have a delightful, fluffy focaccia ready to impress your guests with minimal effort!

Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam to match your taste or dietary needs!

Fruit Swap: Use strawberry or blueberry jam for a different fruity twist. This change keeps the sweetness while transforming the overall flavor profile. Each jam brings its own delightful essence, allowing you to tailor each experience to your liking!
Herb-Infused Dough: Incorporate fresh rosemary or thyme into the dough for an aromatic surprise. The subtle herbal notes beautifully complement the sweetness of the jam, creating a sophisticated blend that will impress your brunch guests.
Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for a fresh, zesty kick. The bright flavors add a lightness that balances the sweetness of the raspberry jam and makes each bite feel vibrant and refreshing.
Nutty Crunch: Top with chopped pistachios or almonds for added texture and crunch. The buttery richness of nuts elevates the sweet flavor and introduces satisfying contrasts in every chew.
Chocolate Drizzle: For chocolate lovers, drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the glaze. The bittersweet chocolate pairs wonderfully with raspberry, taking your Sweet Focaccia to a whole new level of indulgence.
Spicy Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze for a surprising zing. This spicy element balances the sweetness, creating a more complex flavor that’s sure to pique curiosity!
Vegan Option: Substitute almond milk and flaxseed meal instead of milk and eggs for a vegan-friendly version. It keeps the spirit of the original recipe while catering to plant-based diets, and still retains delightful flavors.
Dairy-Free Deliciousness: Use coconut milk for the glaze and an oil-based butter alternative in the dough for a dairy-free indulgence. This swap provides a lovely tropical note that pairs deliciously with the raspberry jam, making it perfect for warm-weather gatherings.

With these variations, you’re not just baking; you’re creating a culinary canvas for your personal touches. For instance, if you’re in the mood for sweets, consider pairing your Sweet Focaccia with a dish like Raspberry Tiramisu Delight for a truly decadent brunch spread!

Expert Tips for Sweet Focaccia

Fresh Yeast: Always check the freshness of your active dry yeast. If it doesn’t bubble when activated, it’s no good for your Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam.
Oil Generously: Use plenty of olive oil during preparation to ensure your focaccia doesn’t dry out. High hydration keeps it fluffy and moist!
Dimpling Technique: Don’t skip the dimpling step! Poking holes allows the raspberry jam to seep in, enhancing both flavor and texture.
Proper Baking Time: Keep an eye on your focaccia while baking. Each oven is different, so adjust your time and check for a golden brown finish to avoid over-baking.
Serve Warm: For the best experience, serve your Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam warm or at room temperature. It’s simply irresistible!

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Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe raspberries for the jam?
Absolutely! When selecting raspberries, look for ones that are plump, firm, and have a rich color—preferably deep red. Avoid berries with dark spots or those that feel mushy, as they may be overripe or spoiled. Fresh raspberries should also have a sweet aroma.

What is the best way to store leftover Sweet Focaccia?
You can store your Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Just remember to reheat it in the oven to bring back its fluffy texture!

Can I freeze Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the focaccia tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

What should I do if my yeast doesn’t activate?
If your yeast doesn’t froth after 5 minutes, it’s likely inactive. Double-check the expiry date, and if you’re certain it’s good, make sure the water temperature was between 105-115°F—not too hot or cold. If your dough doesn’t rise, unfortunately, you may need to start again with fresh yeast.

Is this recipe safe for people with allergies?
While this Sweet Focaccia with Raspberry Jam is delicious, it contains common allergens like gluten (from flour), dairy (in the glaze), and gluten-containing products. If you have allergies, consider substituting with gluten-free flour mixtures and dairy-free alternatives for the milk and glaze to suit your dietary needs. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding allergies.