Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia

If you’re looking for a warm, savory treat that brings the cozy vibes of fall right to your kitchen, then my Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia is just what you need! This lovely bread is not only easy to make, but it also fills your home with a delightful aroma that will have everyone gathered around the oven in anticipation. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this focaccia pairs wonderfully with soups and salads or can be enjoyed on its own as a snack.

What makes this recipe truly special is the combination of rich gruyère cheese and fresh thyme. It’s like taking a bite of autumn! Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving or simply enjoying a slice while watching your favorite show, this bread is sure to become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can whip this up even on a busy day!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves warm bread! This focaccia is perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake it when you’re ready, making meal planning a breeze!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of gruyère and thyme creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and gourmet.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making the Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia requires just a handful of wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Let’s gather everything you need for this delicious bread!

For the Dough

• 6 1/4 cups bread flour
• 2 teaspoons instant dry yeast
• 2 cups warm water (105°F – 115°F or 40°C – 46°C)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 4 teaspoons fine sea salt

For Topping

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (plus more for greasing the sheet pan)
• 1/4 cup room temperature water
• 7 ounces gruyère cheese (sliced into small cubes)
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• 2 teaspoons Maldon sea salt flakes

Variations

One of the best parts about making focaccia is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Fresh Herbs: Mix in other herbs like rosemary or oregano for an extra flavor boost.
• Cheese Swaps: Try using mozzarella or feta cheese if you’re looking for a different taste.
• Veggie Toppings: Add caramelized onions, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives for added texture and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking for a little kick!

How to Make Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia

Step 1: Prepare Your Dough

Start by combining the warm water, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until bubbly. This step ensures that your yeast is active and ready to help your focaccia rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the bread flour and fine sea salt. Gradually add this mixture into the yeast mixture along with olive oil. Stir until fully combined; you want everything to come together into a soft dough.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. This process helps develop gluten, giving your focaccia that lovely chewy texture we all adore!

Step 4: First Rise

Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1-2 hours. Patience is key here—this rise develops flavor!

Step 5: Shape Your Focaccia

Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Transfer it to an oiled sheet pan and stretch it out evenly to fit. Use your fingers to create dimples all over the surface; this helps hold onto those delicious toppings!

Step 6: Add Toppings

Drizzle olive oil over the top of your shaped focaccia. Scatter gruyère cheese cubes and fresh thyme leaves evenly across the surface. Finish with Maldon sea salt flakes for that perfect touch of crunch.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover again with a cloth and let it rest for another 30 minutes while you preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This second rise will give your focaccia an airy texture.

Step 8: Bake

Bake your focaccia in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until golden brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 9: Cool & Serve

Allow your focaccia to cool slightly before slicing into pieces. Enjoy warm as an appetizer or alongside dinner—you won’t be able to resist going back for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia

Making focaccia is a delightful experience, and with a few tips, you can elevate your baking game!

• Use high-quality olive oil: A good extra virgin olive oil not only adds flavor but also contributes to the texture of the focaccia. It enhances the dough’s richness and keeps it moist.

• Don’t rush the rising process: Allowing your dough to rise properly is crucial for achieving that airy, fluffy texture. A longer rise can develop more flavor and improve the overall quality of your focaccia.

• Experiment with herbs: While thyme pairs beautifully with gruyère, feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary or oregano. They can add unique flavors and aromas to your focaccia.

• Preheat your oven thoroughly: A well-preheated oven ensures even cooking and helps create that delightful crispy crust. Aim for at least 30 minutes of preheating before baking.

• Add toppings before the second rise: To ensure that toppings like cheese and herbs stay put, sprinkle them on just before the second rise. This way, they incorporate beautifully into the dough as it rises.

How to Serve Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia

This delicious focaccia can be enjoyed in many ways, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh thyme sprigs: Adding a few fresh thyme sprigs on top right before serving not only enhances presentation but also brings out that lovely herbal aroma.
• Olive oil drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil right before serving adds a touch of elegance and moisture to each piece.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini complement the herby notes of the focaccia while adding vibrant flavors.
• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the soft focaccia, making for a balanced meal.
• Grilled Chicken or Tofu Skewers: Pairing your focaccia with grilled chicken or marinated tofu skewers creates a hearty dish perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
• Olive Tapenade: This savory spread made from olives is a fantastic accompaniment that adds depth and flavor when served alongside slices of focaccia.

Enjoying your Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia is all about creativity—mixing flavors and textures will make every bite memorable!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia is a fantastic recipe for meal prep, allowing you to savor its delicious flavors throughout the week. You can whip up a batch in advance and enjoy it fresh or stored for later!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the focaccia to cool completely before storing.
• Place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the focaccia into individual pieces before freezing for easy serving.
• Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for your reference.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat the focaccia in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C).
• Place it directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might arise while making this delightful focaccia:

What makes Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia special?

The combination of Gruyère cheese’s rich flavors and fresh thyme creates a unique taste that elevates traditional focaccia. This pairing is perfect for fall gatherings and adds a gourmet touch to your meal.

Can I adjust the herbs in my Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia?

Absolutely! While thyme complements the Gruyère beautifully, you can experiment with other herbs like rosemary or oregano if desired. Just be mindful of balancing the flavors so they harmonize well.

How can I serve Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia?

This focaccia makes an excellent appetizer, side dish, or even a base for sandwiches. Pair it with soups, salads, or dips to create a delightful spread!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia as much as I do! It’s not just bread; it’s a warm embrace on cool days, perfect for sharing with loved ones during special occasions. Feel free to experiment with different toppings and flavors—make it your own! Happy baking!