Focaccia Bread With Everything Bagel Seasoning From Trader Joes
When it comes to homemade bread, few things can beat the fragrant, fluffy charm of focaccia. This Italian classic is not only visually appealing but also incredibly versatile, making it a perfect canvas for various toppings and flavors. Today, we’re elevating this delightful bread with a sprinkle of Everything Bagel Seasoning from Trader Joe’s. This seasoning blend adds a delightful crunch and savory flavor that will make your focaccia the star of your next meal.
Why This Focaccia Bread With Everything Bagel Seasoning From Trader Joes Stands Out
This focaccia bread recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly simple, using just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The use of Everything Bagel Seasoning brings a unique twist, combining the flavors of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, and onion, providing layers of taste with every bite. The olive oil adds richness and depth, making each piece utterly irresistible. Plus, it’s perfect for snacking, serving alongside soups, or even as the base for a delicious sandwich.
What You’ll Gather
- 4 cups flour (bread or all-purpose) – This forms the base of your focaccia, giving it structure and chewiness.
- 2 teaspoons dry yeast – This helps the dough rise and become fluffy.
- 2 cups warm water (about 100 degrees Fahrenheit) – Activates the yeast and hydrates the flour.
- 2 teaspoons coarse sea salt – Enhances flavor and balances the richness of the olive oil.
- 3.5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided) – Adds moisture and flavor; it’s essential for a delicious focaccia.
- 1 tablespoon Everything Bagel Seasoning – The star of the show, bringing a delightful crunch and flavor.
- Additional olive oil, as desired – For drizzling on top before baking.
Tools & Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl – For mixing your dough ingredients.
- Wooden spoon or dough whisk – For combining the ingredients without overworking the dough.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Precision is key in baking!
- Plastic wrap or kitchen towel – To cover the dough while it rises.
- Baking sheet – A large one to spread out your focaccia.
- Oven – For baking your amazing focaccia to perfection.
Focaccia Bread With Everything Bagel Seasoning From Trader Joes, Made Easy
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and dry yeast. Allow the yeast to sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This step ensures that your yeast is active and ready to make your dough rise.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
Add the flour, coarse sea salt, and 2 tablespoons of the olive oil to the yeast mixture. Using a wooden spoon or dough whisk, mix until a shaggy dough forms. It should be slightly sticky but manageable.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
Step 4: First Rise
Form the dough into a ball and place it back into the mixing bowl coated with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Once the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a baking sheet with the remaining olive oil. Gently press the dough out onto the baking sheet, spreading it to about ½ inch thick.
Step 6: Dimple the Dough
Use your fingers to create dimples all over the surface of the dough. This not only adds texture but also creates pockets for the olive oil and seasoning to seep into.
Step 7: Season
Drizzle additional olive oil over the dimples and sprinkle the Everything Bagel Seasoning generously on top.
Step 8: Second Rise
Let the dough rest for about 20 minutes while the oven finishes preheating. This will give it a bit more rise and ensure a fluffy texture.
Step 9: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the focaccia is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool slightly in the pan. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Seasonal Twists
- Add roasted garlic to the dough for a deeper flavor.
- Top with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before baking.
- Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or olives into the dough for a Mediterranean flair.
- Swap out the Everything Bagel Seasoning for Italian seasoning or fresh herbs for a different flavor profile.
Missteps & Fixes
Even the most experienced bakers encounter challenges. Here are a few common missteps and how to fix them:
- Dough is too sticky: If your dough is excessively sticky, gradually incorporate a little more flour while kneading until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Dough doesn’t rise: Ensure your water is warm, not hot, and check that your yeast is fresh. If it doesn’t froth, it may need to be replaced.
- Focaccia is dense: This could be due to over-kneading. Mix until just combined and knead gently.
- Burnt edges: If the edges are browning too quickly, cover the focaccia loosely with foil halfway through baking.
Freezer-Friendly Notes
This focaccia bread is freezer-friendly! Once completely cooled, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop in the oven at a low temperature to warm them up.
Popular Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour. However, the texture may be denser, and you might need to increase the water slightly for the dough to come together.
How can I make this focaccia gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Be sure to check that the blend contains xanthan gum to help with structure.
Can I add toppings to the focaccia before baking?
Absolutely! Feel free to add toppings such as olives, cherry tomatoes, or even cheese before baking for a more personalized touch.
How long does leftovers last?
Leftover focaccia can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for about 2-3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing as mentioned earlier.
Wrap-Up
Making focaccia bread with Everything Bagel Seasoning from Trader Joe’s is not just an enjoyable baking project; it’s a way to create something delicious that will impress your family and friends. The process is straightforward, and the results are undeniably satisfying. The combination of the chewy bread with the savory seasoning creates a delightful experience for the taste buds. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or as part of a larger meal, this focaccia is sure to become a staple in your home.
With its versatility, you can adapt this recipe to match seasonal flavors or personal preferences, ensuring that it never gets boring. So roll up your sleeves, grab those ingredients, and get ready to bake up some magic in your kitchen!
Focaccia Bread With Everything Bagel Seasoning From Trader Joes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and dry yeast. Allow the yeast to sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
- Add the flour, coarse sea salt, and 2 tablespoons of the olive oil to the yeast mixture. Using a wooden spoon or dough whisk, mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it's smooth and elastic.
- Form the dough into a ball and place it back into the mixing bowl coated with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a baking sheet with the remaining olive oil. Gently press the dough out onto the baking sheet, spreading it to about ½ inch thick.
- Use your fingers to create dimples all over the surface of the dough.
- Drizzle additional olive oil over the dimples and sprinkle the Everything Bagel Seasoning generously on top.
- Let the dough rest for about 20 minutes while the oven finishes preheating.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the focaccia is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool slightly in the pan. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For a deeper flavor, add roasted garlic to the dough.
- Top with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before baking.
- This focaccia is freezer-friendly; wrap slices and freeze for up to 3 months.
