Name: Cinnamon Focaccia: The Easiest & Softest Treat You’ll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 820 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Warm Water (About 110°F); 2 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast (For leavening); 1 tablespoon White Granulated Sugar (Feeds the yeast); 4 cups Bread Flour (Can substitute with all-purpose); 1 teaspoon Salt (Essential for flavor); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Enhances flavor); 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Melted); ½ cup Light Brown Sugar (For sweetness); 2 teaspoons Cinnamon (For flavor); 4 tablespoons Brown Butter (For nutty flavor); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Base for icing); 2 tablespoons Milk (For consistency); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Adds richness)

As I stood in my kitchen, the warm scent of cinnamon swirling around me, it suddenly hit me: this isn’t just any ordinary bread; it’s Cinnamon Focaccia. With its soft, airy texture and golden edges, this delightful recipe is a standout in the world of comfort food. Forget the fuss of rolling and shaping—this easy-to-make focaccia requires just a simple mix, a bit of patience for rising, and then it’s ready to bake. Perfectly suited for brunch or as a cozy dessert, each bite melts in your mouth, enrobed in buttery cinnamon-sugar goodness. Plus, it’s a glorious way to fill your home with that inviting aroma we all crave. Are you ready to experience baking bliss? Let’s dive into this warm, comforting creation together!

Why Is Cinnamon Focaccia a Must-Try?

Comforting, this recipe brings the warmth of home-baked treats right to your table, creating an irresistible aroma that will make your kitchen feel inviting. Effortless Preparation ensures that even novice bakers can whip this up without the stress of traditional recipes. Heavenly Flavor comes from the combination of melted butter and cinnamon-sugar, providing a delicious twist on classic bread. Versatile Serving Options allow it to shine at brunch or as a delightful dessert, paired with coffee or tea. Plus, if you love sweet breads, you may also enjoy my Cinnamon Sugar Cruffins or check out the amazing Cinnamon Focaccia Brown for more flavorful inspiration!

Cinnamon Focaccia Ingredients

• The perfect mix for this warm, sweet treat!

For the Dough

Warm Water – Activates yeast for a perfect rise; use at about 110°F.
Active Dry Yeast – Provides leavening that makes this dough light and airy.
White Granulated Sugar – Feeds the yeast and enhances the overall sweetness.
Bread Flour – Creates structure and chewiness; substitute with all-purpose for a softer texture.
Salt – Essential for flavor and strengthens the gluten structure.
Olive Oil – Adds moisture and enhances the dough’s flavor.

For the Topping

Unsalted Butter (melted) – Enriches the dough and adds a delightful buttery flavor.
Brown Butter – Introduces a nutty flavor and deep caramel notes to the topping.
Light Brown Sugar – Sweetens the cinnamon topping and adds a touch of moisture.
Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and sweetness into the topping for that classic flavor profile.

For the Icing

Powdered Sugar – The base for your drizzle, adding sweetness without grittiness.
Vanilla Extract – Adds depth and richness to the icing flavor.
Milk – Adjusts the icing consistency for an easy drizzle over your warm focaccia.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Focaccia

Step 1: Activate Yeast
Start by combining 1 cup of warm water (about 110°F) and 1 tablespoon of sugar in a bowl. Gently sprinkle 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast over the top, allowing it to sit for 10-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture becomes frothy, signaling that the yeast is active and eager to help your Cinnamon Focaccia rise perfectly.

Step 2: Mix Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups of bread flour and 1 teaspoon of salt until well-combined. Introduce the yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons of olive oil, stirring until a sticky dough forms. Don’t worry about perfect consistency; the dough should be wet and tacky, setting the stage for your soft and airy Cinnamon Focaccia.

Step 3: First Rise
Transfer the dough into a lightly greased bowl, covering it with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Place the bowl in the refrigerator and let it rise for a minimum of 12 hours. This slow rise will enhance the flavor and texture of your focaccia, making it fluffy and delicious when baked.

Step 4: Second Rise
After the first rise, preheat your oven to 400°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and gently deflate the chilled dough. Transfer it to the pan, then stretch and press it to fit. Cover the pan and let the dough rise in a warm area for 1.5 to 2 hours until puffed and soft, ensuring it’s ready for the oven.

Step 5: Prepare Topping
While waiting, prepare the cinnamon topping. In a small saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over low heat until it becomes browned and fragrant. Remove from heat, then mix in ½ cup of light brown sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon until dissolved. This luscious topping will add that signature warmth and sweetness to your Cinnamon Focaccia.

Step 6: Dimple Dough
Once the dough has risen, preheat your oven if you haven’t already. Using your fingers, gently press dimples all over the surface of the dough, creating small pockets for the topping. Drizzle the cinnamon mixture evenly over the dough, ensuring each dimple gets a touch of that tasty goodness that makes Cinnamon Focaccia irresistible.

Step 7: Bake
Place your Cinnamon Focaccia into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, watching closely for a golden-brown color. The focaccia should bounce back when lightly touched and will smell heavenly as it bakes, filling your kitchen with delicious aromas.

Step 8: Icing
Once baked, remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Drizzle the icing over the warm loaf, allowing it to soak in, enhancing your delightful Cinnamon Focaccia with a sweet finishing touch.

What to Serve with Cinnamon Focaccia

The perfect pairing can elevate the warm, comforting essence of your bake into a delightful feast.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their smooth texture complements the fluffy focaccia, creating a wonderful contrast. Picture a cozy brunch where rich buttery potatoes mingle with sweet cinnamon tones.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits add a refreshing brightness, balancing the warm sweetness of the focaccia. Mixing berries, melons, and citrus can create a beautiful, vibrant dish.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of ice cream adds a delightful chill and creaminess, perfect for drizzling warm focaccia icing over. The contrast of temperatures and textures is simply heavenly!
Spiced Tea: Sipping on a fragrant herbal tea or chai enhances the warm spices of your focaccia, creating an even more inviting atmosphere. The aromatic notes will complement your bake beautifully.
Maple Glazed Bacon: The sweet and savory combination elevates your brunch spread. Crispy bacon with a touch of maple syrup pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon accents of the focaccia.
Dark Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate over focaccia creates a luxurious dessert experience. Each bite becomes a decadent treat, capturing the essence of indulgence.
Cinnamon Coffee: Enjoy a cup of steaming cinnamon coffee to highlight the delicious spice. The warm beverage will wrap around you, making every mouthful of focaccia even more comforting.

These pairing ideas not only enhance your experience but can transform your Cinnamon Focaccia into a cherished meal that warms both the belly and the heart.

Make Ahead Options

Cinnamon Focaccia is a fantastic recipe to prep in advance, saving you precious time during busy weekdays or festive brunch gatherings! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours before baking by allowing it to rise in the refrigerator to enhance flavor. Simply mix your ingredients and let the dough rise overnight. On the day you plan to serve, take it out, let it rest for 1.5 to 2 hours to come to room temperature, and then follow the topping and baking instructions as detailed. To maintain its quality, make sure to cover the dough tightly and refrigerate it. With this make-ahead approach, you’ll enjoy homemade comfort food with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Focaccia

• Dough Consistency: Expect a wet, sticky dough; resist the urge to add extra flour, as this can result in a dense focaccia.

• Rising Time: Patience is key! Ensure you allow both rising periods enough time for the dough to develop flavor and achieve that soft texture.

• Brown Butter Importance: Take the time to brown your butter properly; it adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates your Cinnamon Focaccia to the next level.

• Doneness Check: Look for a golden-brown top and gently press down—the focaccia should spring back when perfectly baked.

• Cooling Time: Let it cool before icing; this prevents the warm Cinnamon Focaccia from melting the icing away, allowing for that perfect drizzle.

Cinnamon Focaccia Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own with these delicious variations!

Maple Drizzle: Substitute the vanilla icing with maple syrup for a warm, cozy flavor twist. It pairs beautifully with the cinnamon topping!
Nutty Crunch: Add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts before baking for extra crunch and depth in flavor. They’ll toast up beautifully in the oven.
Cream Cheese Icing: Swap the vanilla icing for a cream cheese frosting for a tangy touch that contrasts deliciously with the sweet cinnamon flavor.
Fruit Add-Ins: Mix in some dried fruit like raisins or cranberries into the dough for a sweet surprise in every bite. They complement the cinnamon perfectly!
Spicy Cinnamon: Add a pinch of cayenne or nutmeg to the cinnamon topping for a delightful kick that warms up the flavor profile.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the dough for an aromatic twist that’ll surprise your taste buds. The savory notes work wonderfully with the sweet!
Dairy-Free Option: Use almond milk or coconut milk for the icing, and substitute olive oil for any butter in the dough to create a delicious dairy-free Cinnamon Focaccia.
Chocolate Twist: Fold some chocolate chips into the dough before the second rise for a sweet experience that complements the cinnamon seamlessly. This rich addition is simply irresistible!

No matter how you decide to customize it, your home will be filled with a warm, inviting aroma that promises deliciousness! And if you’re looking for more tasty ideas, you might enjoy making Cinnamon Sugar Cruffins or exploring the rich flavors in Garlic Parmesan Focaccia. Happy baking!

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Focaccia

Room Temperature: Keep your Cinnamon Focaccia wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain its soft texture.

Fridge: You can refrigerate the focaccia for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent it from drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked Cinnamon Focaccia by wrapping it well in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer bag. It can last for up to 2 months. Remember to thaw it before icing!

Reheating: To enjoy that freshly-baked flavor, reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or microwave for 15-20 seconds until warm.

Cinnamon Focaccia Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best warm water for the yeast activation?
Absolutely! When activating your yeast, the warm water should be around 110°F. Too hot, and it can kill the yeast; too cool, and it won’t activate properly. I often recommend using a kitchen thermometer for accuracy, but if you don’t have one, just think of warm bath water—pleasantly warm but not boiling!

How should I store my Cinnamon Focaccia after baking?
Very good question! After your Cinnamon Focaccia has cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It will stay delightful at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need a little extra time, refrigerate it for up to 5 days, ensuring it doesn’t dry out.

Can I freeze Cinnamon Focaccia? If so, how?
Absolutely! Freezing your Cinnamon Focaccia is a great way to savor it later. First, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, or you can place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before icing!

What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
Very important to check! If your dough isn’t rising, it may be due to inactive yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh and hasn’t expired. For an ideal rise, place your dough in a warm, draft-free area—like an oven with just the light on. If it’s still stubborn, give it a little more time; some doughs take longer than others.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for Cinnamon Focaccia?
Great question! This Cinnamon Focaccia contains gluten from the flour, so it’s not suitable for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can try using a gluten-free flour blend and adjust the liquid slightly for the dough. Also, it’s always wise to check for allergies with any additional toppings or icings you may add!