Overnight Focaccia - Gluten Free Cooking Guide

This Overnight Focaccia recipe is a game-changer for bread lovers. With its salty, fluffy texture and a golden crust, it’s perfect for any occasion—whether as a side dish or the star of your meal. The overnight rise allows for deep flavor development, making each bite a delightful experience. Say goodbye to store-bought bread; this focaccia will elevate your dining table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ease of Preparation: With minimal hands-on time, you can prepare this focaccia effortlessly overnight.
Incredible Flavor: The combination of olive oil, garlic, and herbs infuses the bread with a rich taste that will impress everyone.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a side dish, sandwich base, or even on its own with dips or spreads.
Perfect Texture: Experience the airy pockets and crispy edges that make focaccia so irresistible.
Impressive Presentation: Its rustic look makes it a beautiful addition to any meal or gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results when making Overnight Focaccia, having the right tools is essential. Below are some must-have kitchen items to simplify your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Spatula
Plastic wrap
Kitchen towel
9×13 baking pan
Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl provides ample space for combining ingredients without spills.
Spatula: Perfect for mixing dough and folding in ingredients without losing texture.
Plastic wrap: Helps retain moisture during the rising process to create a soft dough.
Kitchen towel: Keeps the dough warm and protected while it proofs.

Ingredients

This bubbly overnight focaccia is salty, fluffy, and will become your go-to bread.

For the Dough

480 grams King Arthur All-Purpose Flour
390 grams warm water
14 grams honey
14 grams kosher salt
2 grams active dry yeast
40 grams extra virgin olive oil

For the Topping

3 tablespoons warm water
1 teaspoon iodized salt
1 tablespoon water
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1-2 rosemary sprigs (chopped)
2 garlic cloves (finely minced)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon oregano
Pinch red pepper flakes
Parmigiano-Reggiano (freshly grated)

How to Make Overnight Focaccia

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

Add the honey and yeast to the warm water. Mix to combine and let sit for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

While waiting, whisk together the flour and salt in a mixing bowl.
Pour in the yeast mixture along with olive oil. Use a spatula to stir until all dry bits are mixed in. The mixture will resemble a wet blob.
Cover with plastic wrap and a kitchen towel for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Stretch and Fold

Uncover after 5 minutes, wet your hand, and stretch and fold the dough 4-5 times by pulling sections out and folding them over.
Rotate the bowl after each fold. Cover again with plastic wrap and towel; let rest for another 15 minutes.

Step 4: Repeat Stretching Process

After another 15 minutes, repeat the stretching process once more until elastic.
Flip the dough so that smooth side is on top; drizzle more olive oil to cover completely.
Cover again and refrigerate for 12-18 hours.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

The next day, pour olive oil into a 9×13 pan.
Remove dough from fridge; it should be risen with air bubbles visible.
Pour dough into baking pan with smooth side facing up; cover with plastic wrap/towel again.
Let rise in a warm place (like an oven with light on) for 2-4 hours until expanded.

Step 6: Make Brine

Combine warm water and salt in a small bowl until dissolved.

Step 7: Dimple Dough

Once risen, uncover dough; stretch corners if needed.
Dimple by pressing fingers into dough firmly but not enough to rip it.
Pour brine over entire surface of dimpled dough; cover again for final proof of 45 minutes while preheating oven to 500°F.

Step 8: Prepare Topping

Mix together all topping ingredients in a small bowl; set aside.

Step 9: Bake Focaccia

After proofing is complete, uncover dough; pour topping over bread along with additional olive oil if desired.
Lower oven temperature to 425°F before placing focaccia inside.
Bake for about 30 minutes or until golden brown; ensure internal temperature reaches at least 200°F.

Step 10: Cool

Once done baking, remove from oven; let sit in tray for about 7 minutes before transferring to wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Overnight Focaccia!

How to Serve Overnight Focaccia

Overnight focaccia is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack or as part of a meal, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

As an Appetizer

Dipping Oil: Serve warm focaccia with a mix of extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and herbs for dipping.
Bruschetta: Top slices of focaccia with fresh tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil for a refreshing appetizer.

With Soup or Salad

Hearty Soup Companion: Pair your focaccia with a bowl of minestrone or tomato soup for a satisfying meal.
Salad Side: Enjoy alongside a fresh garden salad to soak up vinaigrette or dressing.

For Sandwiches

Focaccia Sandwiches: Use slices to create delicious sandwiches filled with grilled chicken, vegetables, or cheese.
Panini Style: Press the focaccia with your choice of fillings in a panini press for a crispy treat.

As Breakfast

Toast with Avocado: Spread mashed avocado on toasted focaccia topped with salt and pepper for a healthy breakfast.
Eggs Benedict Base: Use focaccia as the base instead of English muffins for a twist on eggs benedict.

How to Perfect Overnight Focaccia

To achieve the perfect overnight focaccia, consider the following tips that will enhance both flavor and texture.

Bold Hydration: Ensure you use warm water when mixing your dough. This helps activate the yeast effectively.
Bold Stretching Technique: Perform stretch and folds gently but firmly to develop gluten without overworking the dough.
Bold Proofing Environment: Allow your dough to proof in a warm environment to encourage optimal rising; an oven light works well.
Bold Dimpling Method: When dimpling, apply enough pressure to reach the bottom but avoid tearing the dough for even baking.
Bold Topping Choices: Experiment with toppings like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or different herbs for added flavor.
Bold Temperature Control: Preheat your oven fully before baking and adjust temperatures as needed for best results.

Best Side Dishes for Overnight Focaccia

When serving overnight focaccia, consider these side dishes that complement its fluffy texture and savory flavor perfectly.

Bold Ratatouille: A colorful vegetable medley that adds freshness and pairs beautifully with bread.
Bold Caprese Salad: A simple blend of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil makes for a vibrant side.
Bold Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring warmth and richness that enhance each bite of focaccia.
Bold Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make for a hearty accompaniment.
Bold Spinach Artichoke Dip: A creamy dip served warm is perfect for scooping up with slices of focaccia.
Bold Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy skewers add protein to your meal while keeping it light and flavorful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Overnight Focaccia can be a rewarding experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

Bold flour measurement: Using an incorrect flour measurement can ruin the dough’s texture. Always weigh your flour for accuracy.
Bold neglecting resting times: Skipping resting times will affect the dough’s rise. Ensure you follow the resting instructions closely.
Bold not using enough olive oil: Insufficient olive oil can lead to sticking and dryness. Generously coat the baking pan and the dough for best results.
Bold overproofing the dough: Allowing the dough to proof too long can cause it to collapse. Keep an eye on it, especially during the final proofing stage.
Bold ignoring oven temperature adjustments: Baking at the wrong temperature can yield uneven results. Always preheat your oven and adjust as instructed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Wrap tightly with plastic wrap if not using a container.

Freezing Overnight Focaccia

Freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
Slice before freezing for easy reheating later.

Reheating Overnight Focaccia

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat slices on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds. Be cautious; it may become chewy.
Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through for even warmth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Overnight Focaccia.

What makes Overnight Focaccia different from regular focaccia?

Overnight Focaccia allows for longer fermentation, which enhances flavor and texture compared to traditional methods.

Can I add toppings to my Overnight Focaccia?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with toppings like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or various herbs before baking.

How do I know when my Overnight Focaccia is done baking?

It’s done when golden brown on top and reaches an internal temperature of at least 200°F (93°C).

Is Overnight Focaccia suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Its fluffy texture and savory taste make it perfect for meal prep, pairing well with soups or salads throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This delicious Overnight Focaccia is not only easy to make but also versatile enough to complement any meal. You can customize it with various toppings or enjoy it plain. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!