Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I pulled the Cinnamon Swirl Focaccia from the oven, a warm wave of cinnamon-laced magic enveloped my kitchen, instantly transporting me to my favorite coffee shop. This sweet twist on a classic Italian bread seamlessly marries fluffy, airy dough with caramelized cinnamon swirls, making it a delightful centerpiece for any brunch or cozy afternoon snack. With its quick preparation and crowd-pleasing aroma, this recipe will not only become a staple in your baking repertoire but also a comforting reminder that homemade still beats fast food any day. I can’t wait for you to experience its irresistible charm—what toppings would you drizzle on yours? Why is This Focaccia So Irresistible? Simplicity at Its Best: You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this delectable bread, designed for bakers of all skill levels! Rich, Sweet Flavor: The perfect balance of cinnamon and sugar creates an enchanting aroma and taste that’s simply mouthwatering. Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with butter, or elevate it with a drizzle of glaze. This focaccia shines at brunch or as a delightful snack! Texture Perfection: Experience the fluffy dough combined with caramelized swirls that provide a satisfying contrast in every bite. Surefire Crowd-Pleaser: Baking this will invite compliments from friends and family, making it a guaranteed hit at any gathering! Feeling inspired? You might also enjoy the sweet warmth of a Cinnamon Swirl Bundt or the savory delight of Swirled Garlic Herb bread. Cinnamon Swirl Focaccia Ingredients For the Dough All-Purpose Flour – Structure. Use bread flour for a chewier texture. Instant Yeast – Leavening agent. Can substitute with active dry yeast but needs proofing. Salt – Flavor enhancement. Essential for taste balance. Olive Oil – Moisture and flavor. Use high-quality for best results; can swap with melted coconut oil for dairy-free. Sugar – Sweetness. Brown sugar provides a richer flavor than white sugar. Warm Water – Hydration for the dough. Make sure it’s not too hot to avoid killing the yeast. For the Filling Cinnamon – Flavoring. Ground cinnamon is preferable, though fresh cinnamon stick can be used in a pinch. Butter – Richness. Substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option. Sugar – Sweetness. Using brown sugar intensifies the filling’s flavor. For Topping (Optional) Powdered Sugar – Aesthetic and extra sweetness. Dust it over the finished focaccia for a beautiful presentation. By gathering these Cinnamon Swirl Focaccia ingredients, you’re on your way to creating a scrumptious centerpiece for your next brunch or cozy gathering! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Swirl Focaccia Step 1: Prepare Dough In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of instant yeast, 1 tablespoon of salt, 1/4 cup of olive oil, and 1 1/2 cups of warm water. Mix with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Ensure all ingredients are well incorporated before moving on. Step 2: Knead Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You’ll know it’s ready when the dough springs back when lightly pressed. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour, but avoid overdoing it to maintain the focaccia’s light texture. Step 3: First Rise Place the kneaded dough into a bowl lightly coated with olive oil, turning it to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with a damp kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This crucial step ensures that your Cinnamon Swirl Focaccia will be delightfully fluffy. Step 4: Make Filling While the dough rises, prepare the filling by mixing 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 cup of melted butter in a small bowl. Stir until you have a thick paste. The aroma of cinnamon will fill your kitchen, getting you excited for the next steps! Step 5: Shape Dough After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Use a rolling pin for even thickness, then spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Step 6: Create Swirls Starting from one long side of the rectangle, carefully roll the dough into a log, ensuring the filling stays intact. Pinch the seams to seal it. Next, coil the rolled dough into a spiral shape, tucking the ends underneath to create a nice round loaf. Transfer it onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Step 7: Second Rise Cover the coiled dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes in a warm place. This allows the layers to puff up beautifully, making your Cinnamon Swirl Focaccia irresistibly airy and light. Step 8: Bake Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the focaccia in the center of the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Keep an eye on it for that perfect golden hue, which means it’s ready! Step 9: Cool and Serve Once baked, remove the Cinnamon Swirl Focaccia from the oven and let it cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a beautiful finish and extra sweetness. Cinnamon Swirl Focaccia Variations Feel free to get creative and customize your Cinnamon Swirl Focaccia to suit your taste and dietary preferences! Dairy-Free: Substitute melted butter with vegan butter or coconut oil for a delightful dairy-free version. Your focaccia will remain just as rich and flavorful! Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to the cinnamon filling for a crunchy texture. The nuts will bring an exciting contrast to the soft bread, enhancing its overall flavor. Glazed Sweetness: Drizzle a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk over the baked focaccia for an indulgent finish. This sweet touch complements the cinnamon beautifully! Spiced Variation: Infuse your filling with other spices like nutmeg or cardamom alongside the cinnamon. It will add layers of warmth and make each bite tantalizingly different. Fruity Twist: Incorporate dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries into your filling for a burst of sweetness and chewiness. Their natural tartness pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon! Savory Surprise: Explore a savory spin by adding rosemary and sea salt in place of the sugar. Though this veers from sweet, it offers an exciting and aromatic focaccia perfect for a different kind of dining experience. Chocoholic’s Dream: For a sweet treat, mix in chocolate chips with the cinnamon filling for a decadent twist. Each slice will have delightful pockets of melted chocolate! Feeling adventurous? Try pairing your focaccia with a piece of warm Cinnamon Swirl Bundt or a slice of Swirled Garlic Herb bread for a delightful brunch spread! Make Ahead Options These Cinnamon Swirl Focaccia loaves are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the steps until the first rise, then simply refrigerate the dough (this helps develop flavor and maintain quality). When ready to bake, allow the dough to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then proceed with shaping and the second rise. The filling can also be mixed ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just ensure to bring it to room temperature before using. This way, you can enjoy fresh, warm Cinnamon Swirl Focaccia with minimal effort, even on your busiest days! What to Serve with Cinnamon Swirl Focaccia Looking to create a complete feast that complements the comforting sweetness of this delightful bread? Creamy Butter: Spread a layer of rich butter across warm slices to enhance the fluffy texture and add a savory element. The buttery goodness pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cinnamon. Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits like berries and melon balances the rich flavors of the focaccia, offering a refreshing contrast. The natural juiciness and brightness of the fruit elevate your brunch experience to new heights. Coffee or Tea: Serve alongside a fragrant cup of your favorite coffee or herbal tea. The warm, spiced notes of these beverages perfectly harmonize with the cinnamon, making each bite even more indulgent. Vanilla Ice Cream: For an extra-special treat, serve slices with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The luscious cold creaminess creates an irresistible combination that’s perfect for dessert. Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup over the warm focaccia adds an extra layer of sweetness. This simple touch can elevate your brunch offering to restaurant-level fare. Greek Yogurt with Honey: A dollop of tangy Greek yogurt topped with honey provides a creamy, slightly tart contrast that finishes off the sweetness beautifully. This combination also adds protein, making your meal more satisfying. Cinnamon Coffee Cake: Why not continue the cinnamon theme? Pair the focaccia with a slice of moist cinnamon coffee cake for a delightful, sweet treat. This doubles your cinnamon delight and keeps the flavor profile exciting. Sparkling Lemonade: For a refreshing drink option, try a sparkling lemonade. Its bright acidity cuts through the richness of the focaccia while adding a fun fizz to your meal. Each of these pairings harmonizes with the warmth and sweetness of the Cinnamon Swirl Focaccia, creating a memorable dining experience that’s sure to impress. Expert Tips for Cinnamon Swirl Focaccia Dough Rising: Ensure the dough rises completely for a fluffy texture. If the kitchen is cold, try placing it in a warmed oven for the first rise. Don’t Over-Swirl: Avoid over-swirl the filling to maintain the visual appeal and ensure distinct cinnamon ribbons throughout your focaccia. Flavor Development: For deeper flavor, consider refrigerating the dough overnight after the first rise. This enhances the taste as it ferments slowly. Yeast Activation: If using active dry yeast instead of instant yeast, proof it in warm water with a pinch of sugar until frothy before adding to the flour mix. Consistency Check: Keep an eye on the baking time. Ovens can vary, so check for a golden brown hue and a hollow sound when tapped for perfect results. Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month to preserve freshness. Storage Tips for Cinnamon Swirl Focaccia Room Temperature: Store the focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its freshness and delightful texture. Freezer: If you wish to keep it longer, freeze the focaccia wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in an airtight bag for up to 1 month. Reheating: To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat it gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, bringing back that just-baked warmth. Quality Check: Always check for any signs of freezer burn before using frozen focaccia; it should retain its delightful cinnamon flavor and fluffy texture! Cinnamon Swirl Focaccia Recipe FAQs How do I select the best ingredients for my Cinnamon Swirl Focaccia? Absolutely! When choosing your ingredients, look for all-purpose flour that has a fine texture for a light bread. For the best flavor, select high-quality olive oil—this really enhances the taste. If possible, opt for fresh ground cinnamon; it has a much richer aroma than pre-ground. How should I store leftover Cinnamon Swirl Focaccia? To keep your focaccia fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you have leftovers beyond that, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag to preserve its flavor and texture for up to 1 month. Can I freeze my Cinnamon Swirl Focaccia? The more the merrier! To freeze your focaccia, allow it to cool completely first. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, rejuvenating its fluffy goodness. What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise properly? Don’t worry if the dough doesn’t rise as expected! This can happen if the yeast is old or if the water was too hot. First, always use fresh yeast and ensure the water is just warm to the touch (around 110°F or 43°C). If it’s still not rising, try placing it in a warmer environment, like an oven turned off but slightly warmed. Covering it with a damp towel can also help create a cozy, warm atmosphere for rising. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for my guests? Very! Check with your guests for allergies, especially to gluten, dairy, or nuts if you choose to add any optional toppings or variations. If someone is dairy-sensitive, using vegan butter instead of regular butter in the filling works perfectly. Always label or inform your guests about any potential allergens to ensure a wonderful, safe dining experience. How can I enhance the flavor of my Cinnamon Swirl Focaccia? You might consider integrating spices like nutmeg or cardamom into the filling for a delightful twist. Additionally, for a richer taste, let your dough refrigerate overnight after the first rise. This slow fermentation deepens the flavors and creates a more complex, satisfying taste in every bite! Cinnamon Swirl Focaccia: Your New Sweet Brunch Obsession Cinnamon Swirl Focaccia combines fluffy dough with caramelized cinnamon swirls, making it a delightful centerpiece for your brunch. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsRising Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes minsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 15 minutes mins Servings: 10 slicesCourse: CakesCuisine: ItalianCalories: 200 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Dough Ingredients4 cups All-Purpose Flour Use bread flour for a chewier texture.2 teaspoons Instant Yeast Can substitute with active dry yeast but needs proofing.1 tablespoon Salt Essential for taste balance.1/4 cup Olive Oil Use high-quality for best results; can swap with melted coconut oil for dairy-free.1 1/2 cups Warm Water Make sure it’s not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.Filling Ingredients1/2 cup Brown Sugar Using brown sugar intensifies the filling's flavor.2 tablespoons Ground Cinnamon Prefer ground cinnamon; fresh cinnamon stick can be used in a pinch.1/4 cup Butter Substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.Optional Topping IngredientsPowdered Sugar Dust it over the finished focaccia for aesthetic. Equipment Mixing BowlRolling PinBaking Sheetwire rack Method Preparation StepsIn a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of instant yeast, 1 tablespoon of salt, 1/4 cup of olive oil, and 1 1/2 cups of warm water. Mix with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms.Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.Place the kneaded dough into a bowl lightly coated with olive oil, cover with a damp kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour.While the dough rises, prepare the filling by mixing 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 cup of melted butter in a small bowl.After the dough has risen, gently punch it down, roll it out into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick, and spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.Starting from one long side of the rectangle, carefully roll the dough into a log and pinch the seams to seal it. Coil the rolled dough into a spiral shape, tucking the ends underneath.Cover the coiled dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes in a warm place.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the focaccia for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.Once baked, cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack and dust with powdered sugar before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 1mg NotesFor deeper flavor, consider refrigerating the dough overnight after the first rise. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
