Name: Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp active dry yeast; 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/43°C); ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil; 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded; 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves; 2 tsp kosher salt; 1 tsp sugar

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Imagine pulling a warm, golden Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia from the oven, its aroma wafting through your kitchen like a fragrant hug. The golden crust is perfectly crispy, while the soft, pillowy interior beckons you to take a bite. Each mouthful bursts with savory notes of Gruyère cheese and earthy thyme that dance on your palate, creating an unforgettable flavor experience.

This delightful focaccia isn’t just food; it’s a memory-packed moment waiting to happen. Picture this: a family gathering where everyone fights over the last piece, or perhaps a cozy night in with friends and laughter filling the air. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply indulging on a rainy Sunday afternoon, this focaccia will elevate any occasion into something truly special.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike
The combination of flavors creates an irresistible aroma that fills the house with warmth and comfort
Its gorgeous golden color adds a stunning visual appeal to your table setting
Versatile enough for serving as an appetizer or alongside soup, this focaccia fits perfectly in any meal plan

Every time I serve this focaccia, my friends’ faces light up like kids on Christmas morning—it’s hard not to feel proud when you see their joy.

Essential Ingredients

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

All-Purpose Flour: A go-to choice for bread baking; it provides the right structure and chewiness for our focaccia.
Active Dry Yeast: Make sure it’s fresh; active yeast is essential for that lovely rise.
Warm Water: Not too hot! Aim for about 110°F (43°C) to activate the yeast without killing it.
Olive Oil: Use quality extra virgin olive oil for richness; it enhances both flavor and texture.
Gruyère Cheese: Melty and nutty, Gruyère adds an indulgent touch that makes every bite heavenly.
Fresh Thyme: This aromatic herb brings depth and earthiness; feel free to experiment with other herbs if desired.
Salt: Essential for flavor; use kosher salt for even seasoning throughout the dough.
Sugar: Just a pinch helps activate the yeast; don’t worry—it won’t make it sweet!

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

Let’s Make It Together

Mixing the Dough: In a large bowl, combine warm water with sugar and yeast. Let this sit until frothy—about 5 minutes—then stir in olive oil and salt. Gradually add flour while mixing until it forms a shaggy dough.

Kneading: Transfer your dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic develops. You can absolutely let out some frustration here; kneading is therapeutic!

First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl covered with plastic wrap or a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size—roughly 1-2 hours depending on your kitchen climate.

Shaping and Topping: Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Spread it out onto an oiled baking sheet using your fingers to create dimples all over its surface—this part is surprisingly fun! Sprinkle shredded Gruyère cheese and fresh thyme generously atop.

Second Rise: Cover again with plastic wrap and let it rise another 30 minutes while you preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Your kitchen should smell amazing by now!

Baking: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing into squares or rectangles—your patience will pay off as you savor that first bite!

Feel free to tweak this recipe according to your taste! If you’re feeling adventurous, add some sun-dried tomatoes or olives into the mix prior to baking for an extra kick.

This Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia is more than just bread; it’s an experience wrapped up in warmth and flavor that brings people together around the table. Enjoy every moment of crafting this delightful dish!

You Must Know

This Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia elevates any meal, filling your kitchen with heavenly aromas
Perfect for dipping, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with soups or salads
Remember, fresh herbs make all the difference in flavor and presentation

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing your dough ingredients thoroughly before letting it rise for an hour. Preheat your oven while the dough rises to ensure a crispy crust when you bake it.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out Gruyère for mozzarella or add sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor punch. Explore different herbs like rosemary or basil to personalize your focaccia.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to restore its crispy texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor; it enhances both the dough and toppings
Let the dough rise in a warm spot to ensure proper fermentation and fluffiness
A touch of sea salt on top before baking adds that irresistible crunch!

Sharing this recipe reminds me of a family gathering where my cousin devoured half a loaf before dinner even started, declaring it “the best thing since sliced bread.”

FAQ

What type of flour is best for Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia?

Use bread flour for a chewier texture and better structure in your focaccia.

Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh thyme?

Yes, but fresh thyme enhances flavor and aroma significantly more than dried thyme.

How long does it take to prepare Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia?

Preparation takes about 20 minutes, plus an hour for the dough to rise properly.