Name: Irresistible Cinnamon Focaccia: Your Cozy Comfort Food Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 760 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Warm Water (Activates the yeast); 2 tsp Active Dry Yeast (Leavening agent); 1 tsp Granulated Sugar (Feeds the yeast); 4 cups Bread Flour (For structure and chewiness); 1.5 tsp Salt (Enhances flavor); 1 tbsp Olive Oil (Adds richness); 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter (Melted); 6 tbsp Brown Butter (For nutty flavor); 1/3 cup Light Brown Sugar (Sweetens and caramelizes); 2 tsp Cinnamon (Defining spice); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Sifted for smooth icing); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Enhances flavor); 2.5 tbsp Milk (Adjusts icing consistency)

As the rich scent of cinnamon wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me. It’s amazing how certain aromas can transport you back to cozy family gatherings or lazy Sunday brunches. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Cinnamon Focaccia, a delightful blend of comforting flavors that brings the heart of a cinnamon roll to your table with minimal fuss. This easy-to-make treat boasts a soft, airy texture with perfectly crispy edges, making it a perfect pairing for your morning coffee or a sweet afternoon indulgence. Best of all, there’s no complex shaping required, so you can whip this up without breaking a sweat. Ready to bake something that will fill your home with warmth and sweetness? Let’s dive into this comforting recipe!

Why Is Cinnamon Focaccia Irresistible?

Warm, Inviting Aroma: The delightful smell of cinnamon fills your home as it bakes, creating a cozy atmosphere that invites everyone to gather around the table.

Simple Preparation: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can enjoy this delicious treat without the stress of intricate techniques.

Soft, Airy Texture: Each slice features a perfectly fluffy interior and crispy edges, giving you the best of both worlds in every bite.

Versatile Delight: Whether served as a brunch centerpiece or a sweet afternoon snack, this Cinnamon Focaccia pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea. Consider trying it alongside a slice of Rustic Rhubarb Cinnamon for a complete cozy experience!

Crowd-Pleasing Goodness: Its rich flavors and enticing appearance make it a hit at gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves happy and satisfied.

Cinnamon Focaccia Ingredients

• For the Dough

Warm Water (2 cups) – Activates the yeast and ensures proper dough rise.
Active Dry Yeast (2 tsp) – A leavening agent essential for achieving fluffiness in the dough.
Granulated Sugar (1 tsp) – Feeds the yeast, helping with browning and flavor development.
Bread Flour (4 cups) – Provides sturdy structure and chewiness; can substitute with all-purpose flour but expect slight differences in texture.
Salt (1 1/2 tsp) – Enhances overall flavor; don’t skip it for the best taste profile.
Olive Oil (1 tbsp) – Adds richness and moisture, making the dough irresistibly tender.

• For the Topping

Unsalted Butter (2 tbsp, melted) – Used to grease the pan and adds a rich texture to the dough.
Brown Butter (6 tbsp) – Imparts a nutty flavor essential for topping; can substitute regular melted butter but the taste will vary.
Light Brown Sugar (1/3 cup) – Sweetens and helps with caramelization, making each bite delightful.
Cinnamon (2 tsp) – The defining spice for this Cinnamon Focaccia, filling your kitchen with cozy aromas.

• For the Icing

Powdered Sugar (1 cup, sifted) – For making the smooth and sweet vanilla icing that crowns your focaccia.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Enhances the icing flavor for a delicious finish.
Milk (2 1/2 tbsp) – Adjusts icing consistency; feel free to use alternative milk options as desired.

Baking this Cinnamon Focaccia will not only fill your home with warmth but will also create memories to savor around the table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Focaccia

Step 1: Activate Yeast
In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of warm water with 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar, then sprinkle 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast on top. Allow the mixture to sit undisturbed for about 10 to 15 minutes, until it becomes foamy and bubbly, indicating that the yeast is active and ready to create a fluffy Cinnamon Focaccia.

Step 2: Mix Dough
In a separate large bowl, whisk together 4 cups of bread flour and 1½ teaspoons of salt. Once well combined, pour in the yeast mixture along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Stir the ingredients until a sticky dough forms, then lightly coat the dough with a bit more olive oil, covering it to keep it moist during its first rise.

Step 3: First Rise
Cover the bowl with a damp kitchen towel to create a warm environment for the dough. Place it in the refrigerator and allow it to rise slowly for at least 12 hours, or overnight. This step enhances the flavor and texture of your Cinnamon Focaccia, so don’t rush this crucial period!

Step 4: Second Rise
After the first rise, generously grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. Gently deflate the chilled dough and transfer it to the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Cover the pan with a cloth and let it rise in a warm spot for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size and looks fluffy.

Step 5: Prepare Topping
To make the cinnamon topping, melt 6 tablespoons of brown butter in a small saucepan until it becomes fragrant and golden. Remove it from the heat and stir in ⅓ cup of light brown sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon until fully dissolved. Set aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the dough for baking.

Step 6: Dimple Dough
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Once the dough has risen, use your fingers to press deep dimples into the surface of the dough, creating a beautiful texture. Then, drizzle the prepared cinnamon-butter mixture evenly across the dimpled dough, ensuring each nook and cranny gets that delicious flavor boost.

Step 7: Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the Cinnamon Focaccia for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are crisp. The enticing aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling that it’s almost ready. Once baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Finish Icing
While the focaccia cools, prepare the simple vanilla icing by whisking together 1 cup of sifted powdered sugar, 2½ tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Once the focaccia has cooled slightly, drizzle the icing over the warm bread, allowing it to melt into the nooks, and then slice into delightful pieces.

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Focaccia

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its delicious softness.

Fridge: If you plan to keep it longer, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent dryness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for up to 2 months; it’s best without the icing.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore its delightful texture.

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Focaccia

Sticky Dough: Expect a wet, sticky dough; resist the urge to add extra flour, as this could affect the airy texture of your Cinnamon Focaccia.
Rising Time: Allow for sufficient rise time during both the first and second rises. Patience is key to achieving that fluffy, perfect crumb.
Brown Butter Importance: Don’t skip the brown butter! It adds essential nutty flavor that elevates your Cinnamon Focaccia to a whole new level.
Cool Before Icing: Let your focaccia cool slightly before drizzling the icing on top to achieve a nicer, creamy finish.
Flour Substitution Caution: If you opt for all-purpose flour instead of bread flour, be aware that the texture will be slightly softer, impacting the overall outcome.

What to Serve with Easy Cinnamon Focaccia

Savoring a slice of cinnamon focaccia is just the beginning—let’s create a delightful brunch spread or an afternoon treat!

Rich Coffee: Pair with a freshly brewed cup of coffee to enhance the comforting cinnamon notes and add a little kick to your morning.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A twist on savory side dishes, think of smooth mashed potatoes alongside your sweet focaccia to create a perfect contrast in flavors.
Fruity Jam: A dollop of homemade or store-bought berry jam brings bright acidity to balance the sweetness of the focaccia, making every bite worthwhile.
Warm Spiced Tea: A steaming cup of chai or spiced tea beautifully complements the warm spices in the focaccia and creates a cozy vibe for your afternoon.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful blend of seasonal fruits adds vibrant freshness and light texture that pairs wonderfully with the rich sweetness of your focaccia.
Vanilla Ice Cream: An indulgent dessert option, a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over warm focaccia creates a delectable treat that’s simply irresistible.
Maple Glazed Bacon: For a savory contrast, crispy bacon drizzled with maple syrup provides a delicious salty-sweet combination that will leave everyone craving more!

Make Ahead Options

These delicious Cinnamon Focaccia are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by allowing it to rise slowly in the refrigerator, which not only improves flavor but also saves you precious time on busy mornings. Simply cover the bowl with a damp towel and refrigerate right after mixing. Additionally, you can make the cinnamon topping ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature, proceed with the second rise, and follow the baking instructions. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, homemade Cinnamon Focaccia with minimal last-minute effort and maximum deliciousness!

Cinnamon Focaccia Variations & Substitutions

Feel inspired to make this recipe your own—it’s a delightful way to explore flavors and textures!

Dairy-Free: Swap unsalted butter for a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil, and use almond milk in the icing for a creamy finish.
Explore the rich depth of flavors that come from using these alternatives without sacrificing deliciousness.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the bread flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
This opens up enjoying Cinnamon Focaccia while still maintaining that airy texture everyone loves.
Nutty Addition: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture twist that complements the softness of the focaccia.
These nuts add extra nuance, enriching each bite with a delightful crunch that enhances its cozy warmth.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the cinnamon mixture for a neat aromatic boost that elevates the flavor profile.
A little spice can go a long way, making your focaccia even more irresistible during cool evenings.
Fruity Flavor: Toss in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries into the dough to introduce a surprising sweet burst in every slice.
These fruity notes will transport your taste buds, transforming simple Cinnamon Focaccia into a fruity delight.
Zesty Icing: Infuse vanilla icing with a splash of orange or lemon zest for a refreshing citrus twist.
This zesty addition will awaken your senses, leaving you eager for another slice of this comforting treat.
Maple Icing: Substitute the vanilla icing with a sweet maple glaze for a unique flavor that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.
You’ll find the warmth of maple brings an entirely new personality to your Cinnamon Focaccia.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas and create your perfect version of this crowd-pleasing dish. Each twist contributes to a comforting experience that will make your gatherings even cozier! And while you’re at it, you might enjoy pairing your creation with a slice of Rustic Rhubarb Cinnamon or exploring other delightful brunch options.

Cinnamon Focaccia Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right ingredients for Cinnamon Focaccia?
Absolutely! When choosing your ingredients, opt for high-quality active dry yeast that isn’t expired to ensure a good rise. For the flour, bread flour is preferred as it provides the necessary structure. If using all-purpose flour, be ready for a slightly softer texture. Ensure your milk and butter are at room temperature for easier mixing and better incorporation.

What’s the best way to store Cinnamon Focaccia?
Store your Cinnamon Focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to 5 days, making sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent it from drying out.

Can I freeze Cinnamon Focaccia?
Yes! Freezing is a great option for later enjoyment. Wrap the focaccia tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. I recommend freezing it without icing to maintain the best texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

What should I do if my Cinnamon Focaccia doesn’t rise properly?
If your dough fails to rise, it could be due to the yeast not activating properly. Double-check that your water is warm (not hot) and that your yeast is fresh. If the dough is too dense, let it rise for a longer period in a warm place until it doubles in size. Remember, patience plays a key role in baking!

Are there any dietary considerations for Cinnamon Focaccia?
For those with gluten allergies or intolerances, consider using gluten-free all-purpose flour, though the taste and texture may vary slightly. If you’re preparing it for kids or pets, it’s best to avoid added sugars or sweet toppings. Always read food labels if allergies are a concern, especially with the powdered sugar in the icing.

What can I do if my Cinnamon Focaccia dough is too sticky?
It’s perfectly normal for the dough to be sticky! Resist the temptation to add more flour, as this can impact the lightness of your finished focaccia. Instead, lightly oil your hands when handling the dough to ease the process, and let the dough rest longer if necessary; it will become easier to manage as it rises.