Name: Melt-in-Your-Mouth Soft Cinnamon Focaccia to Love
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 775 min
Ingredients: ¾ cup Warm Water (Heated to about 110°F); 2 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast (Always check for freshness); 1 tablespoon White Granulated Sugar (Can be swapped with honey or maple syrup); 3 cups Bread Flour (Key for structure and texture); 1 teaspoon Salt (Opt for sea salt or kosher salt); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Adds richness and smooth texture); ½ cup Unsalted Butter (Melted for easy incorporation); ½ cup Light Brown Sugar (Feel free to substitute with dark brown sugar); 2 teaspoons Cinnamon (Nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice can be alternatives); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Coconut sugar can be an alternative); 2 tablespoons Milk (Non-dairy alternatives available); ½ teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Almond extract can be a substitute)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

A captivating aroma fills the air as cinnamon meets sugar, whisking me back to my childhood, where every kitchen adventure was an exploration. Today, I’m thrilled to share my cherished recipe for Soft Cinnamon Focaccia with Brown Butter Icing—a delightful treat that transforms any day into a special occasion. This versatile treat is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for any time of day, whether enjoyed as a brunch showstopper or a cozy afternoon snack. Plus, it’s make-ahead and freezing-friendly, making it ideal for bustling schedules. Intrigued by the flavors awaiting you? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s sure to warm your heart and home!

Why is this Cinnamon Focaccia special?

Versatility: This Cinnamon Focaccia serves as an ideal brunch centerpiece, snack, or dessert, adapting beautifully to various occasions and tastes.
Ease of Preparation: With minimal effort, you’re rewarded with a stunning result—perfect for those who crave the homemade touch without the fuss.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance for busy weekends or gatherings; simply bake and enjoy at your leisure.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Sweet, buttery cinnamon swirls topped with an indulgent icing will have everyone asking for seconds. Consider pairing it with fresh berries or a cup of coffee for an unbeatable experience. If you’re also looking for more delightful sweet treats, check out these Vanilla Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes for an equally satisfying breakfast option!

Soft Cinnamon Focaccia Ingredients

• Get ready to bake something truly divine!

For the Dough

Warm Water – Activates the yeast; ensure it’s heated to about 110°F for optimal performance.
Active Dry Yeast – Creates rise and fluffiness; always check for freshness to ensure success.
White Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough and aids yeast activation; can be swapped with honey or maple syrup.
Bread Flour – Key for structure and texture; it gives you that delightfully chewy, fluffy result.
Salt – Enhances flavor; opt for sea salt or kosher salt for the best taste.
Olive Oil – Adds richness and a smooth texture to your dough.

For the Topping

Unsalted Butter – Used for the topping; make sure it’s melted for easy incorporation into the mixture.
Brown Butter – Adds a nutty flavor; it’s essential for a rich and luxurious topping.
Light Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and moisture; feel free to substitute with dark brown sugar if that’s what you have.
Cinnamon – Infuses the focaccia with warming spice; if you want to mix it up, nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice can be alternatives.

For the Icing

Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the icing; coconut sugar can be a delightful alternative.
Vanilla Extract – Adds a lovely aromatic flavor to the icing; almond extract can be substituted for a nutty twist.
Milk – Adds liquidity to the icing; non-dairy alternatives work great if you prefer a vegan option.

This Soft Cinnamon Focaccia is all set to bring warmth and hearts together!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft Cinnamon Focaccia

Step 1: Activate Yeast
In a small bowl, combine ¾ cup of warm water (ideally around 110°F) with 1 tablespoon of white granulated sugar. Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for 10-15 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This signals that your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic in your Soft Cinnamon Focaccia.

Step 2: Mix Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups of bread flour and 1 teaspoon of salt until well combined. Pour in the activated yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons of olive oil, stirring until the dough starts to come together but remains slightly sticky. This step sets the foundation for your fluffy focaccia, so ensure everything is incorporated well.

Step 3: First Rise
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and place it in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours. This slow fermentation process helps develop flavor and texture in your Soft Cinnamon Focaccia. After the wait, the dough should look puffed and have more volume, ready for its next steps.

Step 4: Second Rise
Remove the dough from the refrigerator and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to warm up. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with olive oil, then gently transfer the dough into the pan. Shape it into the corners, cover with a towel, and let it rise until doubled in size, which should take 1.5 to 2 hours. Patience is key for that soft, fluffy result!

Step 5: Prepare Brown Butter
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma, about 5-7 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning. Once browned, remove from heat and let cool slightly. This brown butter will add a rich, delectable flavor to your focaccia topping.

Step 6: Make Topping
In a medium bowl, combine the cooled brown butter, ½ cup of light brown sugar, and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon. Mix until smooth and well blended. This luscious topping will create a heavenly swirl throughout your Soft Cinnamon Focaccia, elevating it to a delightful treat.

Step 7: Dimple Dough
Preheat your oven to 450°F while the dough rises in the pan. Once the dough has doubled, gently create dimples across the surface using your fingers, pressing down slightly to create pockets. Pour the prepared brown butter mixture evenly over the surface, allowing it to seep into the dimples, ensuring every bite is infused with flavor.

Step 8: Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and the edges are crispy. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to achieve that perfect caramelization without burning. When done, it should look irresistible and smell divine!

Step 9: Finish Icing
While the focaccia cools in the pan, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Once the focaccia has cooled slightly, drizzle the icing generously over the top, allowing it to set into the warm bread, adding a sweet finish to your Soft Cinnamon Focaccia.

Expert Tips for Soft Cinnamon Focaccia

Rising Time: Allow adequate time for rising. Rushing this step can lead to dense dough that doesn’t achieve its signature fluffiness.
Avoid Extra Flour: Resist the urge to add too much flour when mixing the dough. This can result in a less tender texture in your Soft Cinnamon Focaccia.
Brown Butter Importance: Don’t skip the brown butter! It adds a nutty richness that elevates the overall flavor, making the focaccia truly irresistible.
Watch Your Bake: Keep a close eye on your focaccia during the last minutes of baking to prevent over-browning—golden edges are ideal!
Cool Before Icing: Let your focaccia cool for a few minutes before drizzling the icing; this helps the icing set perfectly for a beautiful finish.

What to Serve with Irresistible Cinnamon Focaccia

Indulge in a delightful spread that perfectly complements the sweet, comforting flavors of this Cinnamon Focaccia.

Fresh Berries: Their bright acidity cuts through the sweetness, creating a vibrant contrast as you enjoy each bite.
Greek Yogurt with Honey: Creamy and rich, this pairing adds a touch of tanginess and sweetness, enhancing your snack experience.
Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage elevates the moment, whether you prefer the boldness of coffee or the soothing qualities of herbal tea.
Soft Cheese: A mild cheese, like ricotta or cream cheese, pairs well for an intriguing combination of creamy and fluffy textures.
Savory Sausages: Grilled or baked, savory sausages introduce a satisfying, hearty element that beautifully balances the sweetness.
Cinnamon-spiced Hot Chocolate: Embrace the cozy theme with a cup of this rich beverage, inviting warmth and nostalgia with every sip.
Apple Slices with Cinnamon Sugar: Added sweetness and crunch give a lovely nod to the flavors of your Cinnamon Focaccia while keeping things fresh.

Enjoy exploring these pairings, and elevate your enjoying experience as you dive into every mouthwatering piece of Cinnamon Focaccia!

Make Ahead Options

These Soft Cinnamon Focaccia are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeks! You can easily prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully. Simply mix the dough and let it rise in the fridge overnight. On baking day, bring the dough to room temperature, place it in your greased pan, and let it rise again for 1.5 to 2 hours. Before serving, dimpling the dough and adding the brown butter topping is what makes this focaccia truly irresistible. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, this make-ahead option ensures your Soft Cinnamon Focaccia is just as delightful, even when prepared in advance!

Soft Cinnamon Focaccia Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful spins on the classic recipe; each twist adds a unique character to your Cinnamon Focaccia!

Dairy-Free: Swap unsalted butter with vegan margarine and use almond milk for the icing to cater to dairy sensitivities.
Nutty Addition: For a delightful crunch, mix in chopped walnuts or pecans into the topping, enhancing both texture and flavor.
Fruit Addition: Layer slices of juicy apples or pears beneath your topping before baking for a deliciously fruity spin that complements the cinnamon.
Seasonal Spice Swap: Replace cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice for a festive autumn flavor that’s perfect for cozy gatherings.
Gluten-Free: Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend instead of bread flour to make this delightful focaccia accessible to everyone.
Savory Twist: Infuse the dough with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a unique savory version that can easily accompany soups and salads.
Chocolate Drizzle: After icing your focaccia, melt chocolate chips and drizzle over the top for a sweet, indulgent treat that chocolate lovers will adore.
Cuban-Inspired: Add a splash of orange zest to the dough for a hint of citrus; the bright flavor beautifully complements the warmth of cinnamon.

Explore these variations and personalize your focaccia experience! If you wish to try other delicious options, these Vanilla Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes or Apple Cinnamon Kodiak could be delightful additions to your recipe collection. They might inspire new favorites for you and your loved ones!

How to Store and Freeze Soft Cinnamon Focaccia

Room Temperature: Store your Soft Cinnamon Focaccia in an airtight container for up to 2 days to keep it fresh and soft.
Fridge: If you need a longer storage solution, refrigerate the focaccia for up to 5 days; wrap it tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the focaccia without icing in a heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating: To restore its original fluffy texture, warm slices in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.

Soft Cinnamon Focaccia Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ingredients for my Soft Cinnamon Focaccia?
Absolutely! Selecting the right ingredients is crucial. Use bread flour for that lovely fluffy texture, and ensure your active dry yeast is fresh; it should be within its expiration date. For the warm water, aim for about 110°F to properly activate the yeast. If you see any dark spots on the yeast after it’s been activated, discard it and start over—fresh yeast is key!

How should I store my Soft Cinnamon Focaccia?
For the best flavor and texture, store your Soft Cinnamon Focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’re keeping it longer, refrigerate it wrapped tightly for up to 5 days. Just remember, storing it well is essential to keep the soft fluffy goodness!

Can I freeze my Soft Cinnamon Focaccia?
Absolutely! You can freeze your Soft Cinnamon Focaccia without the icing for up to 2 months. Here’s how: once it’s completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a heavy-duty freezer bag. When you want to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes to bring back that delightful texture.

What if my focaccia doesn’t rise properly?
No worries! If your Soft Cinnamon Focaccia doesn’t rise, it might be due to insufficient yeast activation. Make sure your warm water is at the right temperature (110°F) and let your yeast mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes until it’s frothy. Additionally, avoid rushing the rising times; each rise is essential for achieving that soft, fluffy result. Give it patience, and your focaccia will shine!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Very! To turn your Soft Cinnamon Focaccia into a gluten-free delight, substitute the bread flour with a suitable gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. This will help mimic the stretchy texture of gluten. Just be sure to follow any specific guidelines provided on the glutin-free blend package for the best outcome!

What dietary restrictions should I consider for the ingredients?
It’s important to be mindful! For a dairy-free option, swap the unsalted butter with vegan margarine and use almond milk for the icing. Make sure to choose gluten-free flour if you’re catering to gluten sensitivities. Always check labels for potential allergens, especially with store-bought items like powdered sugar and milk alternatives to ensure they meet your dietary needs.