As the aroma of cinnamon dances through the kitchen, I can’t help but feel a sense of joyful anticipation brewing in the air. Today’s adventure centers around my beloved Cinnamon Focaccia, a delightful twist on traditional cinnamon rolls that invites us to embrace the warm, cozy flavors we all adore. This recipe isn’t just a delicious addition to your brunch table; it’s a game-changer for busy home chefs looking for a fuss-free option. With its overnight rise and simple preparation, you can enjoy the heavenly mix of cinnamon and brown butter without the stress of rolling and shaping dough. Get ready to create a stunning focal point for your breakfast spread—let’s dive into this soft and airy Cinnamon Focaccia, where every bite promises sweetness and warmth. Curious about how this can transform your brunch tradition? Let’s get started!
Why is Cinnamon Focaccia a Must-Try?
Ease of Preparation: This recipe simplifies your cinnamon roll cravings, making it quicker than traditional methods without sacrificing taste.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of cinnamon and brown butter gives each piece a rich, nutty sweetness that’s irresistible.
Perfect for Any Meal: Enjoy it warm for brunch, or serve it as a delightful dessert with ice cream. The possibilities are endless!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Friends and family will rave about this unique twist on a classic treat, making it a guaranteed hit at gatherings.
Time-Saving Convenience: With an overnight rise, you can prep ahead of time, leaving you stress-free and ready to enjoy your morning.
Elevate your brunch game with this elegant yet comforting Cinnamon Focaccia that everyone will adore!
Cinnamon Focaccia Ingredients
• Here’s what you’ll need to make the ultimate Cinnamon Focaccia:
For the Dough
- Warm Water – Activates the yeast for fermentation; 110°F is ideal.
- Active Dry Yeast – Helps leaven the focaccia, ensuring a light texture; fresh yeast is key.
- Granulated Sugar – Activates the yeast and adds sweetness; substitute with honey if desired.
- Bread Flour – Provides structure and chewiness; all-purpose can be used for a softer result.
- Salt – Essential for flavor enhancement and gluten development.
- Olive Oil – Adds moisture and richness; vegetable oil can work as a substitute.
- Unsalted Butter – Enhances the flavor of the dough; use melted in the baking pan.
For the Topping
- Brown Butter – Elevates flavor with a nutty richness; pay close attention to avoid burning.
- Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and aids in caramelizing the cinnamon topping.
- Ground Cinnamon – The key flavor for this recipe; adjust to your taste preference.
For the Icing
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the icing; can swap for coconut sugar as a healthier option.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; almond extract can be a lovely alternative.
- Milk – Adjusts icing consistency; any type works, including dairy-free options.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re set to create a dreamy Cinnamon Focaccia that elevates any brunch table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Focaccia
Step 1: Activate Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm water (around 110°F) with granulated sugar, stirring until dissolved. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the mixture and let it sit undisturbed for 10-15 minutes, allowing it to foam and activate. This step is crucial for ensuring your Cinnamon Focaccia rises beautifully.
Step 2: Mix Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the bread flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is foamy, add it to the flour along with the olive oil. Stir vigorously until a sticky dough forms. The texture will be wet and tacky, which is ideal for achieving the perfect focaccia consistency.
Step 3: First Rise
Transfer the sticky dough into a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours. This overnight rise allows flavors to develop and contributes to the light, airy texture of the Cinnamon Focaccia.
Step 4: Second Rise
After the dough has risen overnight, prepare a greased and parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking pan. If the dough has expanded, gently deflate it before transferring it to the pan. Cover the dough again with a cloth and let it rise in a warm spot for 1.5 to 2 hours, until it has doubled in size.
Step 5: Prepare Topping
While the dough is rising, melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns golden brown, releasing a nutty aroma. Stir in light brown sugar and ground cinnamon until fully dissolved. Set this rich, flavorful topping aside for later; the brown butter will elevate the Cinnamon Focaccia’s taste wonderfully.
Step 6: Dimple Dough
Once the dough has completed its second rise, preheat your oven to 450°F. Using wet fingers, gently dimple the risen dough across the surface, creating small wells. Drizzle the prepared brown butter topping all over the dough, ensuring each dimple is filled with that luscious mixture.
Step 7: Bake
Place the Cinnamon Focaccia in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. The beautiful aromas will fill your kitchen. Keep an eye on it, as you want a nice golden hue without burning.
Step 8: Finish Icing
After removing the Cinnamon Focaccia from the oven, let it cool for about 10 minutes on a wire rack. In a bowl, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create a smooth icing. Drizzle this icing generously over the top, allowing it to melt slightly into the warm focaccia. Slice and serve to experience a delightful treat!
Make Ahead Options
Busy home cooks will love the convenience of preparing Cinnamon Focaccia in advance! You can mix and allow the dough to rise overnight (up to 24 hours) in the refrigerator, letting flavors meld beautifully. Once the dough has completed its overnight rise, shape it in the baking pan and let it rise again in a warm spot for 1.5 to 2 hours before baking. To maintain quality, avoid icing until just before serving; it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake your focaccia and drizzle it with icing right before serving for that fresh-from-the-oven appeal!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Focaccia
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Stay Sticky: Dough will be quite sticky; resist the urge to add extra flour. This stickiness is crucial for the soft texture you desire in Cinnamon Focaccia.
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Patience is Key: Allow for proper rising times in both the refrigerator and warm spot. This develops the air bubbles essential for a fluffy focaccia.
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Brown Butter Watch: Keep a close eye on the butter while browning. A nutty aroma indicates it’s ready; burnt butter will ruin your flavorful topping.
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Cool Before Icing: Let the focaccia cool slightly before icing. If it’s too hot, the icing will run off instead of creating a beautiful glaze.
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Dimple Technique: Use wet fingers for dimpling the dough. This helps create the perfect wells to hold the delicious brown butter topping!
What to Serve with Soft and Airy Cinnamon Focaccia?
Indulging in this fluffy treat calls for delightful companions that enhance its warmth and sweetness.
- Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The coolness of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm focaccia, creating a heavenly dessert experience.
- Rich Coffee or Espresso: A strong cup of coffee complements the sweetness, balancing flavors while keeping your brunch elegant and uplifting.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, zesty fruits like berries and citrus add refreshing tartness, cutting through the richness of the brown butter drizzle.
- Sweet Tea or Iced Lemonade: These drinks bring refreshing notes and a touch of brightness, making for a well-rounded brunch option to enjoy with family.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: For an extra touch of sweetness, serve with a drizzle of maple syrup—a delightful addition to every fluffy bite!
- Nutty Granola Topping: Sprinkle some homemade granola on top for crunch; its nutty texture pairs well with the soft focaccia.
- Savory Bacon Slices: Crisp bacon can provide a salty contrast, enhancing the overall flavor profile—sweet and savory in perfect harmony.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a lovely creaminess, making this a beautiful finish to your weekend indulgence.
- Herbed Yogurt Dip: Create a savory yet tangy yogurt dip for those who may prefer a contrast, adding another layer of flavor to your brunch.
- Chai Tea: A spiced chai enriches the experience, echoing the cinnamon flavors while providing warmth in every sip.
Cinnamon Focaccia: Creative Twists Await
Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity and tailor this recipe to your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free:
Swap the butter and milk with coconut oil and almond milk for a complimentary flavor and creamy texture. -
Nutty Delight:
Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the topping for an added crunch that enhances the flavor profile beautifully. Each bite will deliver a satisfying texture. -
Spice It Up:
Experiment by adding ground nutmeg or cardamom instead of cinnamon for a fresh take on the classic taste. These spices infuse a warm, aromatic essence that will delight your senses. -
Fruity Fusion:
Mix in some dried fruits like raisins or cranberries to the filling for a burst of sweetness that balances the savory dough. This fruity twist creates a delightful surprise in every bite. -
Maple Icing:
Substitute the vanilla icing with a maple glaze for an earthy sweetness that pairs wonderfully with cinnamon. It adds a rich flavor and will surely impress your guests! -
Zesty Spin:
Add a hint of orange or lemon zest to your icing for a refreshing citrus kick. This bright note cuts through the sweetness, adding a layer of complexity. -
Chocolate Temptation:
Drizzle some melted chocolate over the baked focaccia for a decadent dessert you won’t be able to resist. The combination of chocolate and cinnamon makes for a heavenly treat.
For even more ideas, consider pairing your Cinnamon Focaccia with a luscious cream cheese frosting or a delicate honey drizzle to elevate the sweetness. Enjoy experimenting and discovering your perfect version!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Focaccia
Room Temperature: Store the Cinnamon Focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to retain its softness and flavor.
Fridge: For extended freshness, place it in the refrigerator, where it can stay fresh for up to 1 week. Allow it to warm slightly before serving for the best experience.
Freezer: Wrap the cooled Cinnamon Focaccia tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently before enjoying.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm slices in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through, ensuring a delightful crispy edge and soft center.
Cinnamon Focaccia Recipe FAQs
How can I tell if my dough ingredients are fresh enough?
Absolutely! For the best results, ensure your active dry yeast is within its expiration date and foams up during activation. The warm water should be around 110°F—too cool won’t activate the yeast, and too hot can kill it. For flour, check for any rancid smells or clumps; fresh flour is key for a soft Cinnamon Focaccia.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! You can store your Cinnamon Focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Just remember to let it warm briefly before serving again; a gentle reheat will help revive that fluffy texture!
Can I freeze Cinnamon Focaccia?
Yes, you can! Wrap your cooled Cinnamon Focaccia tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring no air pockets are left. It freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it up in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes to regain its delightful crispiness.
What should I do if my focaccia doesn’t rise properly?
If your Cinnamon Focaccia doesn’t rise, check a few key factors. First, ensure your yeast was activated properly—if it didn’t foam, it may have been dead. Also, consider the temperature during rising; it needs a warm environment. If the dough feels excessively wet, don’t be tempted to add more flour; instead, let it rise longer as time can often help build that light texture!
Are there any common allergens in Cinnamon Focaccia?
Certainly! This recipe contains gluten from the bread flour, dairy from the butter and milk, and eggs (if you opt to add them for richness). For those with allergies, consider substituting with gluten-free flour blends, using coconut milk for the icing, and trying vegan butter alternatives. Always double-check ingredient labels for your safety!
Can pets have Cinnamon Focaccia?
No, it’s best to keep your furry friends away from Cinnamon Focaccia. The sugar and butter content is not healthy for them, and cinnamon can be harmful in large amounts. Stick to treats formulated for pets to ensure they stay safe and healthy!
Cinnamon Focaccia: Your New Favorite Easy Brunch Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, combine warm water with granulated sugar, stirring until dissolved. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the mixture and let it sit undisturbed for 10-15 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the bread flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is foamy, add it to the flour along with the olive oil. Stir until a sticky dough forms.
- Transfer the sticky dough into a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours.
- Prepare a greased and parchment-lined 9x13-inch baking pan. Gently deflate the dough if expanded before transferring it to the pan. Cover and let it rise in a warm spot for 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat until golden brown. Stir in light brown sugar and ground cinnamon until fully dissolved. Set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F. Using wet fingers, gently dimple the risen dough across the surface. Drizzle the prepared brown butter topping all over.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
- Let it cool for about 10 minutes on a wire rack. Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create a smooth icing. Drizzle over the top before serving.
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