No-Knead Focaccia Italian Flatbread (Printable Version)

Soft, airy focaccia with golden crust and olive oil flavor, perfect as a savory snack or side.

# What You'll Need:

→ Dough

01 - 4 cups bread flour or all-purpose flour
02 - 2 teaspoons fine sea salt
03 - 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
04 - 1 2/3 cups lukewarm water
05 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

→ Topping

06 - 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
07 - 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt
08 - 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves (optional)

# Step-by-Step:

01 - In a large bowl, whisk together the bread flour, fine sea salt, and instant yeast until evenly mixed.
02 - Add lukewarm water and 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil to the dry mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until you obtain a sticky, shaggy dough.
03 - Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Allow the dough to rise at room temperature for 8 to 18 hours until it has doubled in size and appears bubbly.
04 - Generously oil a 13x9-inch baking pan using olive oil. Pour the risen dough into the pan and gently stretch and press to fit the shape of the pan.
05 - Cover the pan loosely and let the dough rise for 1 to 2 hours, until puffy and expanded.
06 - Preheat the oven to 425°F.
07 - Drizzle 3 tablespoons olive oil across the dough surface. With oiled fingers, press deeply to create dimples over the entire dough.
08 - Sprinkle flaky sea salt and fresh rosemary leaves over the dough, if using.
09 - Bake in the preheated oven for 22 to 25 minutes until golden brown and crisp around the edges.
10 - Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses basic pantry staples like flour, yeast, and olive oil
  • No kneading or stand mixer required
  • Long slow rise for big flavor and an airy texture
  • Customizable with herbs or toppings you love
  • Vegan and perfect for sharing
02 -
  • High in plant-based protein and fiber from the flour
  • Olive oil ensures a tender crumb and prevents dryness
  • Perfect for beginners or busy days with no kneading or shaping stress
03 -
  • Do not skimp on oiling the pan as it gives the bottom a gorgeous crispy texture
  • If your dough seems slow to rise give it extra time patience equals the fluffiest crumb
  • Try kneading in a tablespoon of chopped sun dried tomatoes or olives for bursts of flavor in every slice