Description
This Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia offers a delightful fusion of soft, airy focaccia bread filled with sweet jam and dusted with sugar, creating a unique dessert that marries Italian baking tradition with the playful flavor of jam donuts.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 tsp)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water (approx. 110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup jam (any flavor, preferably thick consistency)
Toppings
- Extra sugar for dusting (granulated or powdered)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a medium bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast and 2 tablespoons of sugar into 1 cup of warm water. Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make the Dough: To the yeast mixture, add 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of olive oil, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix everything gently until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 8–10 minutes. This helps develop gluten for a tender focaccia texture.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Shape Dough: After the first rise, punch down the dough and press it evenly into a greased baking pan, spreading it gently with your fingers to create a flat surface.
- Add Jam Layer: Spoon the 1/2 cup of jam evenly over the dough’s surface. Gently press the jam into the dough to slightly embed it without mixing.
- Second Rise: Cover the jam-topped dough and let it rise again for 20 minutes, allowing the yeast to give the focaccia a light, airy texture even with the jam on top.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Bake the focaccia for 20 to 25 minutes until it turns golden brown and cooked through.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the focaccia from the oven and immediately sprinkle generously with extra sugar to mimic the sweetness of a donut. Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use a thick jam to avoid excess moisture which can make the focaccia soggy.
- Add powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar for an extra sweet and delicate finish.
- Best enjoyed fresh on the day of baking to savor the soft texture and fresh jam flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired