Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe warm, inviting scent of freshly baked bread has a way of wrapping around you like a cozy blanket, doesn’t it? This Cinnamon Focaccia brings all the delightful essence of cinnamon rolls into an effortless loaf that’s perfect for any occasion. Unlike those time-consuming rolls that require rolling and shaping, this focaccia comes together with a simple, no-fuss overnight dough preparation. The result? A soft, airy bread with golden, crispy edges that oozes with sweet and buttery cinnamon goodness, all beautifully accented with a touch of creamy vanilla icing. It’s not just a crowd-pleaser; it’s your ticket to an indulgent brunch or a comforting dessert, ideal for those who crave homemade treats without the hassle. Doesn’t that sound heavenly? Let’s dive into the secrets of creating this glorious Cinnamon Focaccia together! Why Is Cinnamon Focaccia So Special? Effortless Preparation: Skip the hours of kneading and shaping—this focaccia is a breeze to make with overnight dough! Decadent Flavor: The rich brown butter and warm cinnamon create a harmonious blend that’s simply irresistible. Versatile Serving: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even as a snack. Pair it with coffee or tea for an unforgettable treat! Unique Texture: Enjoy the fluffy interior and crispy edges that make each bite a delightful experience. Time-Saving Delight: This recipe is a game-changer, allowing you to indulge in sweet, homemade goodness without the fuss of traditional rolls. Don’t forget to check out my Cinnamon Sugar Air recipe for another easy sweet treat that your family will love! Cinnamon Focaccia Ingredients • The essential toppings for a delightful treat! For the Dough Warm Water – Hydrates the dough and activates the yeast. Use at about 110°F for optimal activation. Active Dry Yeast – Ferments the dough, allowing it to rise and develop flavor. Ensure it’s fresh for best results. Granulated Sugar – Feeds the yeast and sweetens the dough. Substitutable with brown sugar for a richer flavor. Bread Flour – Provides structure and chewiness, yielding a better texture than all-purpose flour. Can be substituted with all-purpose flour, but results may vary. Salt – Enhances flavor and regulates yeast activity. Do not omit for optimal taste. Olive Oil – Adds moisture and flavor to the dough. Can substitute with melted butter or any neutral oil. Unsalted Butter – Used in the dough and for greasing the pan. For a richer taste, consider using salted butter for pan greasing. For the Topping Brown Butter – Provides a nutty, caramelized depth of flavor crucial to this recipe. Make while continually stirring until amber; cooling is essential before use. Light Brown Sugar – Sweetens and adds flavor to the cinnamon topping. Can be replaced with dark brown sugar for a deeper flavor. Cinnamon – Essential for creating the signature flavor of the focaccia. Can experiment with other spices like nutmeg for variation. For the Icing Powdered Sugar – For the icing, providing sweetness and smooth texture. For a thicker icing, reduce the milk quantity. Vanilla Extract – Adds aromatic sweetness to the icing. Can be substituted with almond extract for a different flavor. Milk – Adjusts icing consistency. Alternative: use plant-based milk for a dairy-free option. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Focaccia Step 1: Activate Yeast In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water (about 110°F) with 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, then sprinkle 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast on top. Allow the mixture to sit for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is active. This step is crucial for your Cinnamon Focaccia to rise beautifully. Step 2: Mix Dough In a large bowl, whisk together 3 cups of bread flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Once the yeast mixture is foamy, add it to the flour along with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until the dough comes together and is sticky. Lightly coat the dough’s surface with a drizzle of olive oil, creating a barrier to prevent it from drying out. Step 3: First Rise Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel and place it in the refrigerator. Let the dough rest for at least 12 hours or overnight. This slow rise is key for developing the flavor in your Cinnamon Focaccia and will give it that lovely airy texture. Step 4: Second Rise Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with melted butter and pour any remaining melted butter into the bottom. After gently deflating the chilled dough, transfer it to the pan and stretch it to fit. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm area for 1.5 to 2 hours, until it has puffed up nicely and fills the pan. Step 5: Prepare Topping While the dough is rising, prepare the topping. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter. Continue stirring until it turns a rich amber color, becoming browned. Then, mix in ¼ cup of light brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon, stirring until dissolved. This mixture will ooze delicious flavor into your Cinnamon Focaccia. Step 6: Dimple Dough Preheat your oven to 450°F. Once the dough has risen, use your fingers to press dimples all over the surface of the focaccia, creating little pockets to hold the topping. Drizzle the rich cinnamon-butter mixture over the dimples, allowing it to seep into the dough. This step enhances both the flavor and the visual appeal of your Cinnamon Focaccia. Step 7: Bake Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the Cinnamon Focaccia for 20-25 minutes, or until it is golden brown. Look for a crisp exterior and a soft center; the edges should be nicely browned too. Once finished, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to set. Step 8: Finish with Icing In a small bowl, mix together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Once the focaccia has cooled slightly, drizzle the icing over the top, allowing it to beautifully swirl into the dimples. Slice your Cinnamon Focaccia into squares and serve warm for a delectable treat! Cinnamon Focaccia Variations & Substitutions Feel free to let your creativity run wild and make this delightful recipe your own! Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs while maintaining a delicious taste. Vegan: Swap out all dairy products for plant-based substitutes, using coconut oil in place of butter and almond milk for the icing. Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for a satisfying crunch and a delightful nutty flavor. Fruity Delight: Incorporate dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries into the dough before the first rise for added sweetness and texture. Spice it Up: Introduce a dash of cardamom or nutmeg in addition to the cinnamon for a warm and aromatic twist. Maple Icing: Replace the vanilla icing with a maple glaze for a unique earthy flavor that’s just as sweet and delicious. Savory Version: Omit the sugar and cinnamon, adding cheese and herbs for an entirely new focaccia experience that’s perfect for savory snacking. For more creative homemade treats, don’t forget to explore my delicious Cinnamon Sugar Air recipe that your family will adore! What to Serve with Cinnamon Focaccia Imagine enjoying a cozy slice of spiced bread paired with delightful complements that elevate this indulgent treat to new heights. Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a burst of color and lightness, balancing the richness of the focaccia. The natural sweetness and juicy texture create a dreamy contrast against the warm bread. Greek Yogurt with Honey: Creamy yogurt drizzled with honey brings a delightful tang and sweetness. Its smooth texture helps to cut through the richness of the icing, creating a beautiful harmony of flavors. Classic Coffee or Chai: These warm beverages accentuate the comforting spices in the focaccia, making it a wonderful pairing for cozy mornings or afternoons. Their warmth complements the soft, airy bread, creating a delightful experience. Chilled Almond Milkshake: The nutty flavor of almond complements the cinnamon beautifully while the creaminess adds a luscious touch. This could be a fun dessert twist after enjoying your warm focaccia! Maple-Glazed Bacon: The savory-sweet combo of bacon with a touch of maple brings a salty crunch that elevates the whole experience. Its savory notes create an unforgettable contrast with the cinnamon sweetness. Vanilla Ice Cream: Imagine warm slices of focaccia served with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melting into the dimples. This indulgent pairing transforms any occasion into a celebration of flavors and textures. Indulge yourself with these delightful options while savoring your homemade Cinnamon Focaccia—it’s an experience you won’t forget! Make Ahead Options These Cinnamon Focaccia are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by completing the first rise in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld while saving you time on busy mornings. Additionally, the topping can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its quality. When you’re ready to bake, simply allow the dough to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, shape it in the pan, and let it rise for another 1.5-2 hours in a warm spot before dimpling and baking. With these make-ahead options, you’ll enjoy freshly baked, delicious Cinnamon Focaccia with minimal fuss! Expert Tips for Cinnamon Focaccia Mind the Texture: Remember, a sticky dough is essential! Avoid adding too much flour, as maintaining moisture is key for achieving the perfect Cinnamon Focaccia texture. Patience is Key: For the best flavor, allow the dough to rise slowly in the refrigerator. If you’re short on time, a room temperature rise will work, but flavor development may be less pronounced. Perfect Brown Butter: To enhance the flavor of your focaccia, ensure your brown butter cools before adding it to avoid burning the dough. Stir frequently while melting until it turns a lovely amber color. Cooling Prior to Icing: Allow your focaccia to cool for about 10 minutes before icing. This helps the icing maintain its aesthetics, creating a beautiful drizzle over your warm treat. Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to try different spices like nutmeg or cardamom in your topping for a unique twist. Your Cinnamon Focaccia will shine with your creative touches! How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Focaccia Airtight Container: Store your Cinnamon Focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep it fresh and soft. Refrigeration: If you want to extend its life, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before enjoying. Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the focaccia wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in the oven. Reheating: Reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm in a 350°F oven for around 10 minutes until just heated through. Enjoy it warm! Cinnamon Focaccia Recipe FAQs How do I know if my yeast is good? Absolutely! To ensure your active dry yeast is fresh, mix it with warm water and sugar. Wait for about 10-15 minutes; if it’s foamy and bubbly, it’s good to go. If there’s no foam, toss it out and get fresh yeast! What’s the best way to store leftover Cinnamon Focaccia? For the best flavor and texture, store your Cinnamon Focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you plan to keep it longer, refrigerate it, where it can last for up to 5 days. Just let it come back to room temperature before savoring your treat! Can I freeze Cinnamon Focaccia, and how? Very! To freeze your focaccia, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This will prevent freezer burn and keep it fresh for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. To refresh the texture, warm it in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise? Oh no! If your dough isn’t rising, check the temperature of your yeast activation step. Ensure the water was warm (but not hot) at about 110°F. If the yeast was inactive, you may need to start over with fresh yeast. Also, make sure to cover the dough properly during the rising process to retain warmth! Can I use gluten-free flour for this Cinnamon Focaccia? Absolutely, though the texture may differ slightly. If you wish to try gluten-free flour, I recommend using a blend designed for baking. The results can vary, so be prepared for a looser structure. Adding a bit of xanthan gum can also help mimic the chewy texture of traditional flour. Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies? Yes! This Cinnamon Focaccia is made without any nuts, making it suitable for those with nut allergies. However, always double-check that your other ingredients, particularly any toppings or substitutes, are also nut-free. Enjoying homemade treats should be safe and delightful for everyone! Cinnamon Focaccia – The Cozy Twist on Classic Treats Cinnamon Focaccia is an effortless and delightful bread bringing the flavors of cinnamon rolls into a special loaf. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsResting Time 12 hours hrsTotal Time 12 hours hrs 40 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: CakesCuisine: ItalianCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough1 cup warm water Use at about 110°F for optimal activation.2 teaspoons active dry yeast Ensure it’s fresh for best results.1 tablespoon granulated sugar Substitutable with brown sugar for a richer flavor.3 cups bread flour Can be substituted with all-purpose flour, but results may vary.1 teaspoon salt Do not omit for optimal taste.2 tablespoons olive oil Can substitute with melted butter or any neutral oil.½ cup unsalted butter For a richer taste, consider using salted butter for pan greasing.For the Topping½ cup brown butter Make while continually stirring until amber; cooling is essential before use.¼ cup light brown sugar Can be replaced with dark brown sugar for a deeper flavor.1 tablespoon cinnamon Can experiment with other spices like nutmeg for variation.For the Icing1 cup powdered sugar For a thicker icing, reduce the milk quantity.½ teaspoon vanilla extract Can be substituted with almond extract for a different flavor.2 tablespoons milk Alternative: use plant-based milk for a dairy-free option. Equipment Mixing bowlBaking panSaucepanwooden spoonplastic wrap Method Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon FocacciaIn a mixing bowl, combine warm water with granulated sugar, then sprinkle active dry yeast on top. Allow to sit for 10-15 minutes until foamy.In a large bowl, whisk together bread flour and salt. Once yeast is foamy, add it to the flour with olive oil and stir until sticky.Cover the bowl tightly and place it in the refrigerator. Let the dough rest for at least 12 hours or overnight.Grease a baking pan with melted butter and pour any remaining melted butter into the bottom. After deflating the dough, transfer it to the pan.In a saucepan, melt unsalted butter until it turns amber, then mix in light brown sugar and cinnamon, stirring until dissolved.Preheat oven to 450°F. Press dimples in the dough and drizzle the cinnamon-butter mixture over it.Bake the focaccia for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Remove from oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes.Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth, drizzle over the cooled focaccia, slice, and serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesA sticky dough is essential! For the best flavor, allow the dough to rise slowly in the refrigerator. Brown butter should cool before use to avoid burning. Allow focaccia to cool slightly before icing. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
