If you love aromatic, tender bread with a crispy golden crust, this Herbes de Provence Focaccia Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine the warm embrace of fragrant herbs, buttery richness, and a perfect dimpled texture that melts in your mouth. This focaccia brings a taste of the French countryside right into your kitchen, delighting every sense with its rustic charm and savory notes. Whether you’re serving it alongside soup, salad, or simply enjoying it on its own, this bread will quickly become a family favorite that you’ll want to bake again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but create a focaccia full of flavor and irresistible texture. Each one plays a crucial role—from the hearty bread flour building structure, to the fragrant Herbes de Provence that infuse every bite with a burst of herbal goodness.
- 4 tbsp olive oil (50g, best you can afford): Adds richness and helps create a crisp, golden crust.
- 1½ cups hot water (340g / 12 oz.): Activates the yeast and hydrates the dough for a perfect crumb.
- 1¼ oz olive oil (35g for the dough): Incorporated into the dough for tenderness and moisture.
- 1 tbsp kosher salt (9g): Enhances flavor and balances the herbs perfectly.
- 3½ cups bread flour (418g / 14.75 oz.): High-protein flour ensures a sturdy but airy focaccia.
- 1 tbsp instant yeast (9g): Gives the dough its rise and lightness.
- 1½ tsp Herbes de Provence (5g, divided): The star herb mix that fills the bread with delightful floral and savory notes.
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (57g, melted and divided): Brushed on top for decadent flavor and a tender crust.
- Flake sea salt (optional, for sprinkling on top): Adds a satisfying crunch and bursts of salty goodness.
How to Make Herbes de Provence Focaccia Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan with Olive Oil
Begin by giving a 9×13-inch pan a good spray with nonstick spray, then pour 4 tablespoons of your best extra virgin olive oil into the bottom. This creates a luscious base that keeps the focaccia ultra-moist and helps develop that beautiful golden crust later on.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the hot water, 1¼ oz olive oil, kosher salt, bread flour, instant yeast, and half a teaspoon of Herbes de Provence. Start beating at low speed just until most of the flour is mixed in, then crank it up to medium-high for a full minute to develop the dough’s texture and elasticity.
Step 3: Shape and Rise
Transfer the sticky dough to your prepared pan. Rub your fingers with olive oil (so the dough won’t stick) and gently spread the dough to the edges while simultaneously creating those classic dimples that define focaccia. Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and place it somewhere warm and draft-free to let the dough rise and double in size, which usually takes about one hour. You want the dough to be puffy but still hold its shape.
Step 4: Preheat Your Oven
While your dough is rising, set your oven to 400°F. This temperature ensures the focaccia will bake evenly with a crisp exterior and tender crumb.
Step 5: Add Herb Butter and Final Touches
Once your dough has doubled in height, brush the top with 2 tablespoons of melted butter, letting it soak in those rich flavors. Sprinkle with flake sea salt and the remaining 1 teaspoon of Herbes de Provence for a beautifully herby finish. Press your fingers into the dough again to renew those signature indentations.
Step 6: First Bake
Pop your pan into the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. The bottom and edges should start turning a subtle golden brown, teasing your senses with the aroma of herbs and baked bread.
Step 7: Butter and Salt Again
Carefully brush the top of the focaccia with the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter and sprinkle a light dusting of flake sea salt for a finishing crunch and flavor boost.
Step 8: Final Bake
Rotate the pan so it bakes evenly and cook for another 15 to 20 minutes until the top is a gorgeous golden brown and the bottom feels crisp when you lift it slightly from the pan.
Step 9: Cooling
Transfer your focaccia to a wire rack and let it cool for about 5 minutes right in the pan. Then carefully turn it out onto the rack and allow it to cool completely, locking in the texture that is both airy and satisfyingly chewy.
How to Serve Herbes de Provence Focaccia Recipe
Garnishes
A little fresh rosemary or thyme sprinkled on top just before serving can add an extra pop of fragrance and color. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil or a balsamic reduction for a simple yet elegant presentation that entices everyone at the table.
Side Dishes
This herb-infused focaccia shines alongside hearty soups like tomato basil or creamy mushroom, salads bursting with fresh greens and citrus, or even as a side to Mediterranean dishes like grilled vegetables and roasted chicken. It’s a versatile star that complements so many meals.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your focaccia torn into rustic chunks alongside a cheese board, paired with olives and charcuterie for a laid-back gathering. You can also slice it horizontally to create savory sandwiches stuffed with fresh mozzarella, roasted veggies, or your favorite deli meats.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover focaccia tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It will stay soft and delicious for up to two days at room temperature.
Freezing
To extend its shelf life, wrap focaccia tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. When properly stored, it can last in the freezer for up to one month without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
Reheat your focaccia in a preheated 350°F oven for 10 minutes or until warm and crisp again. For extra softness, sprinkle with a little water and cover loosely with foil while warming. Avoid microwaves if possible to maintain that delightful crunch.
FAQs
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour, but the texture might be slightly less chewy and sturdy. Bread flour’s higher protein helps develop that wonderful elastic crumb typical of focaccia.
What exactly is Herbes de Provence?
It’s a fragrant mix of dried herbs from southern France, commonly including thyme, rosemary, savory, oregano, and lavender. It imparts a unique floral and savory flavor that makes this focaccia so special.
Do I need a stand mixer to make this recipe?
No stand mixer is needed if you prefer mixing by hand. It may take a bit more elbow grease, but just mix the dough until fully combined and knead it well to develop the gluten.
Can I add toppings like olives or cherry tomatoes?
Absolutely! Adding toppings before the final bake is a great way to customize your focaccia. Just be mindful not to overload the dough so it can still bake evenly and rise well.
How long does the dough take to rise?
The dough usually doubles in size in about one hour if placed in a warm, draft-free area. If your kitchen is cooler, you might need to give it a bit more time.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a comforting, aromatic bread that’s deceptively simple to make, this Herbes de Provence Focaccia Recipe is your go-to. Its tender crumb, golden crust, and those irresistible herbal notes will soon become your favorite way to add a little French flair to your meals. Give it a try—you’ll fall in love at first bite!
