Why Make This Recipe
Christmas Tree Focaccia is not just a delicious bread; it’s also a fun way to bring holiday spirit into your kitchen. This festive bread is perfect for gatherings and adds a charming touch to your holiday table. With the combination of fresh rosemary and sweet pear, this focaccia is both savory and a little sweet, making it a delightful treat for everyone.
How to Make Christmas Tree Focaccia
Ingredients
- 1 pear, thinly sliced
- Fresh rosemary sprigs, as needed
- 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1 1/4 tsp coarse salt
- Extra coarse salt, for garnish
- Plenty of olive oil, for the dough and topping
- 1 2/3 cups water
Directions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the active dry yeast with warm water. Let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the bread flour and coarse salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until the dough starts to form.
- Rest the Dough: Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rest in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours until it rises and doubles in size.
- Shape the Dough: Once risen, gently punch down the dough. On a floured surface, shape it into a large triangle to resemble a Christmas tree.
- Decorate the Tree: Arrange the pear slices as ornaments and place rosemary sprigs as branches. Drizzle olive oil over the top and sprinkle with extra coarse salt.
- Bake the Focaccia: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the decorated dough on a baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Take the focaccia out of the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
How to Serve Christmas Tree Focaccia
Serve Christmas Tree Focaccia warm, straight from the oven, or at room temperature. It makes a great appetizer or side dish for holiday meals. Pair it with olive oil or balsamic vinegar for dipping. You can also enjoy it on its own or with a light soup.
How to Store Christmas Tree Focaccia
Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it well in plastic wrap and freeze it. To enjoy later, thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven for a few minutes.
Tips to Make Christmas Tree Focaccia
- Make sure your water is warm but not too hot when activating the yeast.
- Don’t rush the rising time; letting the dough rise fully makes it light and fluffy.
- For more flavor, try adding spices like garlic powder or herbs into the dough mix.
- Feel free to mix different toppings, like olives or cherry tomatoes, for added decorations.
Variation
You can change up the toppings to suit your taste! Try using slices of other fruits like apples or figs, or mix in different herbs such as thyme or sage. Create different shapes or designs with the dough for a unique look.
FAQs
1. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but the texture may be slightly different. Bread flour gives a chewier texture.
2. How long does it take for the dough to rise?
It usually takes about 1 to 2 hours for the dough to rise and double in size, depending on the temperature of your kitchen.
3. Can I prepare the dough a day in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. Just let it come to room temperature before shaping it.
4. Is this focaccia gluten-free?
No, this recipe contains bread flour, which is not gluten-free. You can look for gluten-free flour alternatives if needed.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the focaccia. Wrap it tightly, and it will last up to a month in the freezer.
Christmas Tree Focaccia
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive focaccia shaped like a Christmas tree, featuring fresh rosemary and sweet pear, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pear, thinly sliced
- Fresh rosemary sprigs, as needed
- 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1 1/4 tsp coarse salt
- Extra coarse salt, for garnish
- Plenty of olive oil, for the dough and topping
- 1 2/3 cups water
Instructions
- Activate the yeast by mixing the active dry yeast with warm water in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, combine the bread flour and coarse salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil, mixing until the dough starts to form.
- Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rest in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours until it rises and doubles in size.
- Once risen, gently punch down the dough and shape it into a large triangle on a floured surface to resemble a Christmas tree.
- Arrange the pear slices as ornaments and place rosemary sprigs as branches. Drizzle olive oil over the top and sprinkle with extra coarse salt.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the decorated dough on a baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
Notes
Serve warm or at room temperature; pairs well with olive oil or balsamic vinegar for dipping. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Christmas, focaccia, holiday bread, vegetarian, festive, baking