The warm, inviting scent of cinnamon wafting through my kitchen is enough to transport me straight to my favorite brunch spots. Today, I’m excited to share my Fluffy Cinnamon Focaccia with Brown Butter, a delightful twist that combines the comforting flavor of cinnamon rolls with the ease of homemade bread. This recipe promises a quick prep time, transforming ordinary mornings into extraordinary moments filled with warmth and deliciousness. With an overnight rise that does the heavy lifting for you, this focaccia is perfect for anyone looking to impress without much fuss. And let’s not forget that rich buttery cinnamon-sugar filling that creates a perfectly crispy topping, making each bite an absolute delight. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with the magic of freshly baked bread? Let’s dive in!
Why is Cinnamon Focaccia a Must-Try?
Irresistible aroma: Picture the enchanting smell of cinnamon wafting through your home, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for brunch gatherings.
Easy preparation: With a simple overnight rise, you can enjoy fresh-baked goodness without spending hours in the kitchen.
Heavenly flavor: The combination of brown butter and cinnamon creates a rich, delightful taste that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Versatile serving: Perfect for breakfast or dessert, this focaccia pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea—ideal for any occasion!
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a brunch with friends, this Cinnamon Focaccia will steal the show and put a smile on everyone’s face. If you love cinnamon, you might also enjoy making Cinnamon Roll Protein for a nutritious snack or Cinnamon Roll Coffee to sip alongside it!
Cinnamon Focaccia Ingredients
For the Dough
- Warm Water – Activates yeast for a proper rise; aim for around 110°F.
- Active Dry Yeast – Essential for leavening, helping your dough become fluffy and airy.
- Granulated Sugar – Feeds the yeast, ensuring your dough rises beautifully.
- Bread Flour – Provides structure and chewiness; can substitute with all-purpose flour but the texture will differ.
- Salt – Enhances the flavor and regulates yeast activity for optimal rise.
- Olive Oil – Adds moisture and flavor to the dough, making it richer.
For the Topping
- Unsalted Butter – Used for greasing the pan and enhances flavor in the focaccia.
- Brown Butter – Adds a nutty flavor to the cinnamon topping, crucial for depth; don’t skip this step!
- Light Brown Sugar – Contributes sweetness and a delicious caramelized taste to the topping.
- Cinnamon – The star flavor of the focaccia, infusing each bite with warmth.
For the Icing
- Powdered Sugar – Necessary for a smooth icing that you can drizzle easily.
- Vanilla Extract – Provides aromatic flavor to the icing, elevating its taste.
- Milk – Adjusts icing consistency; can be dairy or non-dairy depending on your preference.
This Cinnamon Focaccia not only fulfills your craving for comforting flavors but also creates a delightful experience for any brunch gathering. Happy baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Focaccia
Step 1: Activate Yeast
In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water (around 110°F) with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast on top and let it sit for 10-15 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial as it ensures your Cinnamon Focaccia will rise beautifully, creating that light texture we all love.
Step 2: Mix Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups of bread flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Once combined, pour in the activated yeast mixture along with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir until a sticky dough forms, then transfer it to a lightly greased surface. Knead the dough gently for about 3-4 minutes, creating a soft, cohesive mix for your focaccia.
Step 3: First Rise
After kneading, shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap or a damp cloth. Refrigerate the dough for at least 12 hours; this overnight rise not only enhances flavor but also ensures that the Cinnamon Focaccia has air pockets, making it fluffy and soft when baked.
Step 4: Second Rise
The next day, grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with melted unsalted butter. Deflate the chilled dough and gently stretch it into the pan. Cover the pan with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the dough doubles in size, showing a slightly puffed up appearance.
Step 5: Brown Butter
While your dough is rising, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir constantly until it turns a golden brown color and develops a nutty aroma, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly; this step is essential for adding depth to your Cinnamon Focaccia’s topping.
Step 6: Cinnamon Topping
In a small bowl, mix 1/3 cup of light brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon together. Once your brown butter has cooled, combine it with the sugar and cinnamon mixture until it dissolves. This delightful blend will create the sweet ribbon of flavor that runs through your focaccia, making each slice irresistible.
Step 7: Prepare Dough
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). After the dough has risen, dip your fingers in water and create dimples all over the surface of the dough in the baking pan. Drizzle the cinnamon-brown butter mixture generously over the dimples, ensuring every bite of your Cinnamon Focaccia is packed with flavor.
Step 8: Bake
Once your oven is preheated, place the pan in and bake your focaccia for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as your Cinnamon Focaccia should turn a lovely golden brown on top. The aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible—this is a sign that it’s almost ready!
Step 9: Finish Icing
After baking, let your Cinnamon Focaccia cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. In the meantime, mix 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle this creamy icing over the warm focaccia before slicing to add a luscious finishing touch.
Storage Tips for Cinnamon Focaccia
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
Fridge: If you need it to last longer, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s covered to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Cinnamon Focaccia for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze without icing and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
Reheating: To enjoy it warm, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or pop them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Cinnamon Focaccia ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious moments on busy mornings! You can easily prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps and placing it in the refrigerator to rise overnight. After the first rise, simply deflate the dough and cover it tightly before refrigerating. Additionally, you can mix the brown butter topping (up to 3 days ahead) and store it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its rich flavor. When you’re ready to finish, allow the dough to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before dimpling and baking, ensuring you still achieve that warm, fluffy delight while saving time in your meal prep!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Focaccia
- Dough Texture: Expect the dough to be wet and sticky. Avoid adding extra flour; it ensures your Cinnamon Focaccia remains fluffy.
- Rising Time: Patience is key! Don’t rush the rising times; extending them yields air bubbles that make a light focaccia.
- Brown Butter Importance: Don’t skip the brown butter step; it adds a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the focaccia.
- Icing Application: Allow the focaccia to cool slightly before adding the icing. This preserves its creamy texture and prevents it from melting away.
- Mixing Option: If you prefer, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook on low speed to make mixing easier and faster.
Cinnamon Focaccia Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and adjustments to make this Cinnamon Focaccia truly yours!
- Maple Icing: Swap vanilla icing for rich maple syrup icing for a cozy, autumn-inspired flavor.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Use cream cheese frosting instead of icing for a tangy richness that balances out the sweetness.
- Citrus Zest: Add a sprinkle of orange or lemon zest to your icing for a bright, zesty kick that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon topping for added crunch and flavor depth.
- Dried Fruit Surprise: Enhance your focaccia with some golden raisins or dried cranberries mixed into the dough for a lovely fruity twist.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute milk in the icing with a non-dairy milk for a delicious dairy-free option that everyone can enjoy.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent dessert, drizzle melted chocolate over the top instead of icing for a rich touch.
- Spiced Up: Elevate the spice level by adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon mixture—perfect for spice lovers!
No matter how you choose to customize it, this Cinnamon Focaccia will surely make your kitchen feel like a warm and inviting bakery. And if you’re really craving some cinnamon goodness, consider trying out Cinnamon Roll Protein for a healthy snack or pairing it with an aromatic cup of Cinnamon Roll Coffee for that perfect brunch experience!
What to Serve with Fluffy Cinnamon Focaccia?
The delightful aroma and warm texture of this focaccia create the perfect foundation for a wonderful meal experience.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their silky texture complements the fluffy focaccia while providing a comforting side you can’t resist.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: The bright flavors and textures of seasonal fruits add a refreshing contrast to the rich cinnamon and butter.
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Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche adds a protein-packed option, balancing the sweet richness of the focaccia beautifully.
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Herb-Infused Olive Oil: Drizzling this on the focaccia allows for an aromatic burst, enhancing the bread’s flavor profile.
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Cinnamon Coffee: For a brunch twist, serve with a cup of cinnamon coffee to echo the focaccia’s sweet notes and create a warm atmosphere.
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Vanilla Yogurt: Smooth and creamy, yogurt provides a delightful tartness that contrasts the sweetness, making for a balanced pairing.
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Caramel Sauce: For dessert lovers, serving warm focaccia with caramel sauce offers a decadent end to your meal, complete with rich, sweet flavors.
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Chamomile Tea: A soothing chamomile tea works wonders to cleanse the palate and bring a soothing finish to a brunch gathering.
Cinnamon Focaccia Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ingredients for my Cinnamon Focaccia?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, make sure your warm water is around 110°F, which helps activate the yeast effectively. Use active dry yeast that isn’t expired for the best results. I recommend choosing bread flour for its structure, but all-purpose flour can work too; just note that the texture may differ slightly.
What’s the best way to store my Cinnamon Focaccia?
For optimal freshness, store your Cinnamon Focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need it to last longer, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Just be sure it’s covered to avoid drying out.
Can I freeze Cinnamon Focaccia?
Of course! To freeze your Cinnamon Focaccia, wait until it’s completely cooled, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. For the best taste, freeze the focaccia without icing, and simply reheat it before serving.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
Very common! If your dough isn’t rising, check the yeast freshness first. Make sure your warm water isn’t too hot or too cold, as it needs to be around 110°F to activate the yeast effectively. If your kitchen is too cold, try finding a warmer spot for the dough to rise, or place it in an unheated oven with a bowl of hot water to create a cozy rising environment.
Can I make any substitutions for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you have allergies or dietary preferences, feel free to substitute the dairy ingredients. For instance, you can use non-dairy milk in the icing, and olive oil can replace butter in the dough for a dairy-free option. Just be sure to check that your brown sugar and other ingredients meet your dietary needs. Happy baking!
How long can I keep the Cinnamon Focaccia icing?
The icing for your Cinnamon Focaccia can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. When ready to use, give it a quick stir to restore its creamy consistency before drizzling it over your warm focaccia!
Irresistibly Soft Cinnamon Focaccia for Cozy Brunch Vibes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, combine warm water with granulated sugar. Sprinkle active dry yeast on top and let sit for 10-15 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together bread flour and salt. Pour in the activated yeast mixture along with olive oil. Stir until a sticky dough forms, then knead gently for 3-4 minutes.
- Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 12 hours.
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan with melted unsalted butter. Deflate the chilled dough and gently stretch it into the pan. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot for 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Melt unsalted butter over medium heat until golden brown, stirring constantly. Allow it to cool slightly.
- Mix light brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Combine with the cooled brown butter.
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Create dimples all over the surface of the dough in the baking pan. Drizzle the cinnamon-brown butter mixture over the dimples.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth. Drizzle over the warm focaccia before slicing.
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