Name: Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp active dry yeast; 1 ¼ cups warm water (100°F to 110°F); 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (divided); 1 cup finely grated Gruyère cheese (divided); 2 tbsp fresh thyme (chopped); 1 tsp salt

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The aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the house is an invitation that few can resist. Imagine biting into a warm, golden slice of Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia, where the rich, nutty cheese mingles with the fragrant herb, creating a mouthwatering experience that dances on your palate. perfect cheese pairing.

This delightful focaccia is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Whether it’s an evening gathering with friends or a cozy family dinner, this dish promises to steal the spotlight and create unforgettable moments around the table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers
Its warm flavors and fluffy texture create a comforting delight that pairs beautifully with any meal
The enticing aroma will have everyone flocking to the kitchen, making it ideal for gatherings
Plus, you can customize it with your favorite toppings!

There was that one time I made this focaccia for a family reunion. Everyone gathered around as if I had summoned the spirit of Italian grandmothers past. My cousin even tried to sneak off with half of it before dessert! Let’s say it was a hit.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-Purpose Flour: A good quality all-purpose flour provides structure and chewiness, essential for that perfect focaccia texture.
Active Dry Yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh for optimal rising; it’s like giving your dough a caffeine boost!
Warm Water: Ideally between 100°F to 110°F (38°C to 43°C), warm water helps activate the yeast without cooking it.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for flavor; it adds richness and moisture to your focaccia.
Gruyère Cheese: Choose finely grated Gruyère for its nutty flavor; it melts beautifully and creates a lovely crust on top.
Fresh Thyme: Freshly chopped thyme adds an aromatic touch; you can substitute dried thyme in a pinch but fresh is best!
Salt: Essential for flavor; don’t skimp on this one—it makes everything taste better!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. savory wing recipe.

Let’s Make It Together

Prepare Your Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and active dry yeast. Let it sit until frothy, about 5-10 minutes. Add flour and salt to the mixture, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.

Knead It Out: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. You want it springy but not sticky—think of it as giving your dough a mini workout!

Add Flavorful Touches: Once kneaded, incorporate half of your Gruyère cheese and chopped thyme into the dough by folding them in gently. This ensures every bite has that cheesy goodness!

Let It Rise: Place your dough in an oiled bowl and cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Allow it to rise in a warm place until doubled in size, roughly 1-2 hours. Patience is key here as magic happens during this time!

Shape Your Focaccia: After rising, punch down the dough gently before transferring it to an oiled baking sheet. Press outwards with your fingers to create dimples across the surface—this allows olive oil to pool beautifully!

Bake It Up!: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Drizzle olive oil over your dimpled focaccia before sprinkling with remaining cheese and thyme. delicious minestrone soup Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and deliciously fragrant.

And there you have it! Your Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia is ready to make its grand entrance at any occasion. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or served alongside soups or salads, this bread is bound to be loved by all! For more inspiration, check out this Italian Penicillin Soup recipe.

You Must Know

Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia is a delightful twist on classic focaccia
The rich nuttiness of Gruyère combined with fragrant thyme creates a bread that’s deliciously aromatic and perfect for any occasion
It also makes your kitchen smell like a fancy Italian bakery!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing your ingredients in a large bowl, allowing the dough to rise for about an hour. Then, knead it gently before letting it rise again. This ensures a light, fluffy texture and enhances flavors beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your focaccia! Try adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives for extra flavor, or switch thyme for rosemary if you prefer. Each variation can take your creation from ordinary to extraordinary!

Storing & Reheating

To store, keep your focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For reheating, pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore its crispy crust.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use high-quality olive oil when preparing the focaccia; it really enhances the flavor profile
Don’t rush the rising times; patience is key for achieving that perfect airy texture
Always make sure your yeast is active before mixing!

Sharing my first attempt at making Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia remains unforgettable. Friends thought I had catered from a fancy restaurant. sweet potato appetizer Their compliments were sweeter than the bread itself!

FAQ

Can I use other cheeses instead of Gruyère?

Absolutely! Cheeses like mozzarella or fontina can work beautifully, giving different textures and flavors while still keeping that cheesy goodness intact in your focaccia.

How do I know when my dough has risen enough?

The dough should roughly double in size and feel puffy to the touch. A good rule of thumb is to poke it gently; if it springs back slowly, it’s ready!

What can I serve with Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia?

This delightful bread pairs well with soups and salads or can be enjoyed on its own as a snack. Try dipping it in balsamic vinegar mixed with olive oil for added flavor!