The focaccia recipe to amaze your friends and family

The focaccia recipe to amaze your friends and family is a medium Italian recipe that serves 8. 200 calories per serving. Recipe by Cooking with the Coias on YouTube.

Prep: 19 hrs 13 min | Cook: 14 min | Total: 19 hrs 47 min

Cost: $4.25 total, $0.53 per serving

Ingredients

  • 500 g Double Zero Flour (high protein (12.5%+), Italian 00 flour)
  • 500 g Water (heated to 80°C)
  • 0.5 g Instant Yeast (approximately 1/8 teaspoon)
  • 2 tsp Diastatic Malt Powder (helps rise, color, and flavor)
  • 500 g All-Purpose Flour (unbleached, high protein (~13%))
  • 20 g Salt (about 2½ teaspoons, kosher or sea salt)
  • 200 g Skim Milk (warmed to 105°F (40°C))
  • 45 ml Olive Oil (extra‑virgin, for pan and topping)
  • 1 tbsp Dried Oregano (generously sprinkled on top)
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Rosemary (optional, chopped)

Instructions

  1. Make the Overnight Polish

    In a mixing bowl combine 500 g double‑zero flour, 500 g water (heated to 80 °C), 1/8 tsp instant yeast and 1 tsp diastatic malt powder. Stir with a spatula until a smooth, liquidy mixture forms.

    Time: PT1M

  2. Ferment Overnight

    Cover the bowl tightly and let it sit at room temperature for 12 hours (or 12‑14 h) until bubbly and risen.

    Time: PT12H

  3. Prepare the Second Flour Mix

    In a separate bowl whisk together 500 g all‑purpose flour, 20 g salt and 1 tsp diastatic malt powder.

    Time: PT2M

  4. Warm the Milk

    Heat 200 g skim milk in the microwave for about 30 seconds until it reaches roughly 105 °F (40 °C).

    Time: PT30S

  5. Combine All Ingredients

    Add the warm milk to the overnight polish, then fold in the flour‑salt‑malt mixture. Mix with a spatula, then knead by hand for about 1 minute until the dough becomes smooth and cohesive.

    Time: PT2M

  6. First Rest

    Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.

    Time: PT30M

  7. First Set of Folds

    Dampen your hand slightly, then perform a series of lift‑and‑fold motions around the bowl (about 20 folds). This should take roughly 5 minutes.

    Time: PT5M

  8. Second Rest

    Cover and let the dough rest another 30 minutes.

    Time: PT30M

  9. Second Set of Folds

    Repeat the lift‑and‑fold process (about 20 folds) for another 5 minutes.

    Time: PT5M

  10. Bulk Fermentation

    Cover the bowl and let the dough rise at room temperature for about 5 hours, or until it has doubled in volume.

    Time: PT5H

  11. Divide and Shape

    Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, divide it into two equal pieces (~850 g each), and shape each into a tight ball. Cover and let rest for 45 minutes (or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor).

    Time: PT45M

  12. Prepare Pan and Preheat Oven

    Preheat the oven to 500 °F (260 °C). Brush the bottom of a 13×18‑inch baking pan with a generous layer of olive oil.

    Time: PT15M

    Temperature: 500°F

  13. Stretch, Dimple, and Oil the Focaccia

    Place one dough ball into the oiled pan, gently stretch to about 1‑inch thickness, and press dimples into the surface with oiled fingertips. Drizzle additional olive oil over the top, then sprinkle sea salt and dried oregano (and optional rosemary) generously.

    Time: PT5M

  14. Bake

    Bake for 12‑15 minutes, checking at 12 minutes. Remove when the top is deep golden brown and the crust sounds hollow when tapped.

    Time: PT14M

    Temperature: 500°F

  15. Finish and Serve

    Brush any pooled olive oil from the pan over the focaccia, let it rest 5 minutes, then cut with scissors or a sharp knife into squares or strips.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
200
Protein
5 g
Carbohydrates
30 g
Fat
8 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian

Allergens: Wheat, Milk

Last updated: April 12, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

The focaccia recipe to amaze your friends and family

Recipe by Cooking with the Coias

A homemade Italian focaccia with a crisp olive‑oil‑laden crust, aromatic oregano, and a tender, airy crumb. This recipe uses a simple overnight pre‑ferment, high‑protein flours, and diastatic malt powder for extra flavor and rise. Perfect as a side, sandwich base, or antipasto bread.

MediumItalianServes 8

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
19h 25m
Prep
14m
Cook
2h 21m
Cleanup
22h
Total

Cost Breakdown

$4.25
Total cost
$0.53
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Make the Overnight Polish
  • Combine All Ingredients
  • First Set of Folds
  • Second Set of Folds
  • Bulk Fermentation
  • Stretch, Dimple, and Oil the Focaccia
  • Bake

Safety Warnings

  • Hot oven reaches 500 °F; use oven mitts.
  • Water and milk are heated; avoid burns.
  • Keep hands clean to prevent cross‑contamination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of focaccia in Italian cuisine?

A

Focaccia originates from ancient Roman flatbreads and became a staple in Ligurian cuisine, especially in Genoa. It was traditionally baked in communal ovens and served as a snack, accompaniment to meals, or as a base for toppings.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of focaccia in Italian cuisine?

A

In Liguria, focaccia is thin, olive‑oil‑rich, and often topped with rosemary. In Puglia, it may be thicker and topped with tomatoes and olives. The Tuscan version, called "schiacciata," is seasoned simply with salt and olive oil.

cultural
Q

How is focaccia traditionally served in Liguria, Italy?

A

Ligurian focaccia is usually served warm, brushed with extra virgin olive oil, and sprinkled with coarse sea salt. It can be eaten plain, with sliced cheese, or as a sandwich bread for cured meats.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is focaccia traditionally associated with in Italian culture?

A

Focaccia is a common everyday bread but also appears at festivals, family gatherings, and as a welcoming snack for guests. In some regions it is served during harvest celebrations and religious feasts.

cultural
Q

How does focaccia fit into the broader Italian cuisine tradition?

A

Focaccia exemplifies the Italian emphasis on simple, high‑quality ingredients—flour, water, olive oil, and salt. It complements antipasti, soups, and salads, and showcases the Italian art of bread making that underpins many meals.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for focaccia versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Authentic focaccia uses high‑protein wheat flour, extra‑virgin olive oil, sea salt, and optionally diastatic malt. Substitutes include bread flour for 00 flour, water instead of milk, and regular yeast if instant yeast is unavailable.

cultural
Q

What other Italian dishes pair well with focaccia?

A

Focaccia pairs beautifully with cured meats like prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, grilled vegetables, hearty soups such as minestrone, and as a base for panini sandwiches.

cultural
Q

What makes this focaccia recipe special or unique in Italian cuisine?

A

The recipe combines 00 flour with high‑protein all‑purpose flour and adds diastatic malt powder, creating a light, airy crumb and a deep golden crust. The overnight polish and multiple folds develop flavor without heavy kneading.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making focaccia?

A

Common errors include using low‑protein flour, skipping the malt powder, over‑kneading, under‑proofing the dough, and not oiling the pan generously. Each of these can lead to a dense crumb or a dry crust.

technical
Q

Why does this focaccia recipe use diastatic malt powder instead of regular sugar?

A

Diastatic malt contains enzymes that break down starches into sugars, feeding the yeast and enhancing browning and flavor. Regular sugar only sweetens and does not provide the same enzymatic benefits.

technical
Q

Can I make this focaccia ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes. After shaping, refrigerate the dough balls overnight; they develop richer flavor. Before baking, let them come to room temperature for 30‑45 minutes. Unbaked dough can also be frozen for up to a month.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Cooking with the Coias specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Cooking with the Coias focuses on home‑cooked, approachable recipes with a strong emphasis on bread, pastries, and comfort foods, often sharing personal stories and technique tips.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Cooking with the Coias' approach to Italian cooking differ from other Italian cooking channels?

A

Cooking with the Coias blends classic Italian techniques with personal experimentation, such as adding malt powder and using a high‑protein flour blend, while many other channels stick strictly to traditional recipes without such custom tweaks.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

Soft and Crispy Focaccia
46

Soft and Crispy Focaccia

A soft, pillowy interior with a super‑crispy, olive‑oil‑laden bottom and a golden, flaky‑salt topped crust. This Italian focaccia is flavored with garlic, rosemary, and a hint of red pepper flakes, and it’s baked hot on the bottom rack then finished on the top rack for maximum crunch.

2 hrs 54 minServes 8$6
Italian
We Made 1886 Coca Cola Recipe - Glen And Friends Cooking
89

We Made 1886 Coca Cola Recipe - Glen And Friends Cooking

Recreate John Pemberton's original 1880s Coca-Cola formula using food‑grade essential oils, high‑proof grain alcohol, caffeine extract, and a simple sugar‑citrus syrup. This historical beverage captures the sweet, citrusy, and bitter notes of the first cola, minus the cocaine, and can be carbonated at home for a nostalgic soft‑drink experience.

45 minServes 8$75
American
My Family’s Most Requested Garlic Shrimp Noodles (Ready in 15 Minutes)
28

My Family’s Most Requested Garlic Shrimp Noodles (Ready in 15 Minutes)

A quick, one‑pot Chinese‑style dish featuring buttery garlic shrimp, aromatic sauce, and soft mung‑bean vermicelli noodles. Cooked in a clay pot for rustic presentation, this comforting meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner.

55 minServes 3$23
Chinese
How to make the EASIEST and SUPER Delicious CHILE VERDE, a Family CLASSIC and Special Recipe
46

How to make the EASIEST and SUPER Delicious CHILE VERDE, a Family CLASSIC and Special Recipe

A quick and flavorful Mexican pork stew made with roasted Hatch green chilies, tomatillos, and aromatic spices. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or served over rice and beans.

2 hrs 10 minServes 4$65
Mexican
One Pan Chicken & Potatoes 🥔 Family Style Recipe!
35

One Pan Chicken & Potatoes 🥔 Family Style Recipe!

A simple, flavorful one‑pan dinner featuring bone‑in, skin‑on chicken thighs roasted over seasoned potatoes. The chicken drips onto the potatoes for extra taste, and a wire rack keeps the skin crisp. Ready in under an hour with minimal cleanup.

1 hr 20 minServes 4$18
American
Amaze Your Family With This Delicious CHICKEN FETTUCCINE ALFREDO
4

Amaze Your Family With This Delicious CHICKEN FETTUCCINE ALFREDO

A rich, velvety chicken alfredo made with fettuccine, broccoli, and a blend of Parmesan and white cheddar. Ready in under an hour, this comforting Italian‑American dish is perfect for a quick family dinner.

1 hr 7 minServes 4$19
Italian-American
My Nonna’s Focaccia
32

My Nonna’s Focaccia

A fluffy, cloud‑like focaccia topped with fresh crushed tomatoes, dried oregano and a generous drizzle of extra‑virgin olive oil. The dough is hydrated, slow‑fermented for 24 hours and given a final rise before baking, resulting in a light, airy crumb and a crisp, golden crust.

28 hrs 25 minServes 4$4
Italian
Maggie and Jake Gyllenhaal Share Their Family Banana Bread Recipe
354

Maggie and Jake Gyllenhaal Share Their Family Banana Bread Recipe

A nostalgic, slightly imperfect banana bread recipe inspired by the hosts' family cookbook. Overripe bananas, softened butter, a touch of vanilla, and chopped pecans create a moist, nutty loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a comforting treat. The recipe follows the playful, un‑measured style of the original family notes while giving clear, home‑cook friendly measurements.

1 hr 45 minServes 8$4
American