Creating this Christmas Poinsettia Focaccia Bread is just as much about the joy of baking as it is about the final result. Imagine the scene—your kitchen filled with the inviting scent of freshly baked bread, and friends or family gathered around, excited to see what you’ve created. Making focaccia is simple, and the process of shaping it into a beautiful Poinsettia design turns it into a lovely centerpiece for your holiday table. Plus, it’s a fun way to get everyone involved in the kitchen!
As you prepare this recipe, the vibrant colors of the red bell peppers and the bright yellow of cherry tomatoes will catch your eye, making it not just delicious but a visual treat. When the bread is baked to golden perfection, you’ll find it’s soft and fluffy, perfect for sharing. So grab your apron, roll up your sleeves, and let’s bring the festive spirit into your kitchen with this delightful Christmas Poinsettia Focaccia Bread!
Why This Recipe Works
Creating the perfect Christmas Poinsettia Focaccia Bread combines the simplicity of traditional bread-making with the stunning visual appeal of a holiday centerpiece. The blend of fresh ingredients and aromatic herbs not only offers a delightful taste but also fills your kitchen with a festive atmosphere. The interactive process of shaping the bread into a beautiful Poinsettia design makes it an engaging activity for families and friends alike.
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Poinsettia Focaccia Bread
This Christmas Poinsettia Focaccia Bread is more than just a dish; it’s a festive celebration on a plate. With its vibrant colors, flavorful ingredients, and soft, fluffy texture, this recipe will become a beloved holiday tradition. Moreover, it’s a fantastic way to impress your guests while filling your home with enticing aromas that evoke the spirit of Christmas.
Ingredients for Christmas Poinsettia Focaccia Bread
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon instant bread-making yeast
- 1½ cups warm filtered water
- 1½ teaspoons granulated sugar
- 2 large red bell peppers, cut into triangles
- 1 yellow cherry tomato, halved
- Arugula, optional for garnish
The Christmas Poinsettia Focaccia Bread Recipe
Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sea salt, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, dried rosemary, instant yeast, warm water, and 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix the ingredients thoroughly with an electric mixer using a dough hook attachment or a spatula until a shaggy dough forms. Don’t rush this step; a good mix ensures that everything is well integrated, allowing the yeast to do its job.
Prepare the Baking Dish
Pour a little more olive oil into a 9 x 13-inch baking slab or dish, spreading it evenly to coat the surface. This step ensures a crispy and flavorful crust. The oil helps the dough not to stick and adds flavor to the inviting golden crust that everyone loves.
Form the Dough
Transfer the shaggy dough into the oiled baking dish, pressing it down gently until it reaches all corners. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a damp towel and allow it to rise for one hour. This rising time is essential as it activates the yeast and gives your bread that light, airy texture.
Preheat the Oven
Once the dough has risen and doubled in size, it’s time to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that your dough gets the perfect amount of heat for baking it to perfection.
Shape the Focaccia
Using your fingers, poke the dough all over to create dimples. This allows for even baking and enhances texture. Next, arrange the red bell pepper triangles into two flower shapes on the surface of the dough. The dimples help hold any oil or toppings you choose, keeping every bite flavorful.
Add the Centerpiece
Cut the yellow cherry tomato in half and place one half in the center of each Poinsettia flower shape created with the bell peppers. This lovely touch adds brightness and makes your focaccia visually stunning, resembling the Christmas Poinsettia flowers.
Bake the Focaccia
Sprinkle additional sea salt over the entire surface of the dough. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Keep an eye on your creation as it turns from dough into a beautifully golden brown bread; the aroma will surely be a treat for your senses.
Final Touches
Once the focaccia is baked, remove it from the oven and drizzle with olive oil. If desired, arrange arugula leaves near the flowers to imitate foliage, adding a vibrant touch to your dish. This is where your bread goes from tasty to beautifully presented, perfect for the holiday table.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Christmas Poinsettia Focaccia Bread warm as a stunning centerpiece at your holiday table. It pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or as a standalone appetizer, inviting everyone to dig in and enjoy the flavors you’ve created.
Tips for Success
- Ensure your water is warm but not too hot, as this can kill the yeast. A temperature around 110°F is ideal.
- Knead the dough thoroughly for a light and airy texture. You can knead it by hand for about 10 minutes if you don’t have a mixer.
- Keep an eye on the bread in the oven to prevent over-baking; every oven is different. Check for that lovely golden hue.
Storage Tips
To keep your Christmas Poinsettia Focaccia Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just warm it up in the oven for that fresh-baked taste.
Variations
- Experiment with herbs: Try adding fresh basil or thyme for additional flavor. These herbs will elevate the taste and add depth.
- Change up the toppings: Use olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or cheese to elevate your focaccia. Let your creativity shine through!
- Make it gluten-free: Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Pairing Ideas
This focaccia pairs beautifully with a warm bowl of tomato soup, a fresh arugula salad, or a selection of cheeses and cured meats. It complements many dishes, making it a versatile addition to your holiday menu.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight for a more developed flavor. Just allow it to come to room temperature before shaping.
2. What type of flour is best for focaccia?
All-purpose flour works well, but you can also use bread flour for a chewier texture, which can enhance the overall experience.
3. Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with seasonal vegetables like zucchini or olives, making the dish uniquely yours.
4. How do I know when the focaccia is done baking?
The focaccia is done when it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Trust your senses; the smell and sound are great indicators!
5. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, all ingredients used in this recipe are plant-based, making it suitable for vegans to enjoy at your festive gathering.
Enjoy making your Christmas Poinsettia Focaccia Bread this holiday season. Not only will it be a feast for the eyes, but it will also fill your home with warmth and joyful aromas, creating lasting memories around the table with loved ones.
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Christmas Poinsettia Focaccia Bread
This festive Poinsettia Focaccia Bread is a visual delight and perfect for sharing. Its fluffy texture and vibrant colors make it a captivating holiday centerpiece.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 1 baking dish 1x
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon instant bread-making yeast
- 1½ cups warm filtered water
- 1½ teaspoons granulated sugar
- 2 large red bell peppers, cut into triangles
- 1 yellow cherry tomato, halved
- Arugula, optional for garnish
Instructions
- Combine sea salt, granulated sugar, flour, dried rosemary, yeast, warm water, and olive oil in a bowl. Mix well.
- Pour olive oil into a baking dish to coat it.
- Transfer the dough to the dish and press gently. Cover and let rise for one hour.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Poke the dough with fingers and arrange bell peppers in flower shapes.
- Place cherry tomato halves in the center of each flower.
- Sprinkle with sea salt and bake for 25 minutes or until golden.
- Drizzle with olive oil and add arugula if desired.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Ensure the water temperature is around 110°F to activate yeast without killing it.
For a lighter texture, knead the dough thoroughly for a good amount of time.
Check your focaccia in the oven to avoid over-baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 250
- Fat: 6
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Unsaturated Fat: 4
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 4
- Cholesterol: 0
