There’s something magical about the cozy aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen, and this homemade jam donut focaccia brings that warmth home in a whole new way. By merging the classic Italian focaccia with the sweet nostalgia of a donut, we create a delightful treat perfect for breakfasts or brunches with loved ones. This recipe is not only a fun weekend project but also a fabulous crowd-pleaser that transforms simple ingredients into a bakery-worthy delight. Imagine the fluffy bites, each filled with luscious raspberry preserves, making it a comforting addition to any table. Are you ready to experience this sweet twist for yourself? Let’s dive into the world of jam donut focaccia!
Why is Jam Donut Focaccia Irresistible?
Fluffy Texture: With its light and airy interior, this focaccia delights with every bite, mimicking the comforting texture of your favorite donut.
Sweet Surprise: Each piece is filled with luscious raspberry preserves, offering a burst of sweetness that elevates your brunch experience.
Easy to Make: This straightforward recipe allows you to become a baking pro without complicated steps—perfect for any skill level!
Versatile Flavor Options: Try substituting raspberry with your favorite jam or even adding chocolate chips for a unique twist!
Perfect for Sharing: This crowd-pleaser is ideal for gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves with a smile and a full belly. Pair it with a cup of coffee or even serve it alongside a bowl of Wonton Soup for an amazing brunch combo!
Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia Ingredients
For the Dough
- Warm Water – Activates yeast and hydrates dough; keep temperatures between 105-115°F for best results.
- Sugar – Feeds yeast for a better rise and sweetness; brown sugar adds a lovely caramel touch.
- Active Dry Yeast – Key ingredient for leavening; always check for freshness to ensure your focaccia rises perfectly.
- Bread Flour – Provides that characteristic chewiness; if you prefer a softer texture, all-purpose flour can be used.
- All-Purpose Flour – Adds tenderness to the dough; adjust the water slightly if using it as a full substitute.
- Salt – Balances flavors and strengthens the gluten structure; essential for enhancing taste.
- Olive Oil – Infuses moisture and flavor into the dough; melted butter can be a delightful substitute.
For the Filling
- Raspberry Preserves – Offers a sweet, fruity burst in every bite; feel free to swap with your favorite jam for a personal touch.
For the Icing
- Confectioners’ Sugar – Sweetens the icing; consider mixing with flavor extracts for a unique flavor.
- Whole Milk – Adjusts icing consistency perfectly; almond or oat milk can be non-dairy options.
Experience the joy of Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia with these simple, wholesome ingredients!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia
Step 1: Prepare Yeast
In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water (between 105-115°F), 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) of active dry yeast. Stir gently, then let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast, setting the foundation for your delicious homemade jam donut focaccia.
Step 2: Make Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture with 2 cups of bread flour, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir until a sticky dough forms. Transfer the mixture to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. This process develops gluten and gives the focaccia its delightful texture.
Step 3: First Rise
Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat the surface with oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size. This rise is where the magic happens, as the dough becomes light and airy, ready to be transformed into an irresistible focaccia.
Step 4: Second Rise
After the first rise, gently punch down the dough to release any air bubbles and transfer it to a greased baking pan (about 9×13 inches). Press it out evenly to fit the pan and let it rise again for another hour, covered. As it rises, the dough will puff up beautifully, preparing for the final baking stage of this scrumptious homemade jam donut focaccia.
Step 5: Preheat Oven
While the dough is rising for the second time, preheat your oven to 425°F. This ensures your oven is hot enough to create that lovely crust on your focaccia. In the meantime, gather your ingredients and prepare your workspace so that once the dough is ready, you can quickly proceed with the next steps.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Once the second rise is complete, take your fingers and poke deep dimples throughout the surface of the dough, creating a classic focaccia look. Spread approximately ¾ cup of raspberry preserves evenly across the dimples, ensuring each bite will be filled with sweet goodness. The fruity aroma will already start captivating your senses!
Step 7: Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. The visual cues of a beautifully browned crust promise a delightful experience, perfectly showcasing the sweet jam filling in your homemade jam donut focaccia.
Step 8: Fill
Right after you remove the focaccia from the oven, poke a few additional holes and fill them with more raspberry preserves while it’s still warm. This extra step ensures that every bite is perfectly oozing with sweetness, making your jam donut focaccia even more irresistible.
Step 9: Make Icing
In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar with 2-4 tablespoons of whole milk until you reach a smooth, spreadable icing consistency. This simple icing adds a sweet touch to your focaccia and enhances its delicate flavor profile, crucial for the final presentation.
Step 10: Finish & Serve
Drizzle or spread the icing over the warm focaccia, allowing it to sink into the dimples and enhance the sweet layers below. Serve slices warm, optionally glazing the bottom for a beautiful finish that will make your homemade jam donut focaccia shine on any brunch table. Enjoy sharing this delightful creation with family and friends!
How to Store and Freeze Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia
Room Temperature: Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days to retain its fluffy texture.
Fridge: While you can refrigerate the focaccia, it’s best enjoyed fresh. If needed, wrap it well; it can last up to a week.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the focaccia for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap then foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, bringing back its delightful fluffiness.
What to Serve with Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia?
Indulging in a slice of this delightful sweet focaccia transmits warmth to the table, perfect for creating treasured moments with loved ones.
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Fresh Berries: Brighten your plate with strawberries or blueberries. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the focaccia beautifully.
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Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, it adds a creamy richness that enhances each bite. Consider topping your slice for a truly indulgent experience.
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Coffee or Tea: A warm cup pairs perfectly, complementing the flavors and enhancing your morning or afternoon tea time.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer your favorite yogurt with granola and fresh fruit. It creates a lovely contrast with the rich jam-filled focaccia, offering a delightful texture variation.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Picture warm focaccia alongside a scoop of melting ice cream. The contrast is heavenly, offering a cozy dessert experience.
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Chocolate Milk: The sweetness of chocolate milk perfectly augments the jam’s flavor, making for a fun twist—great for the kids!
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Cream Cheese Frosting: For a decadent touch, drizzle cream cheese frosting over the focaccia. It beautifully combines tangy and sweet for an unforgettable bite.
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Sparkling Lemonade: Refreshing and bright, it cleanses the palate while enhancing the fruity notes of the raspberry preserves in the focaccia.
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Scones: Mix it up by serving with homemade scones for a charming brunch spread, creating a lovely family gathering experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by completing the first rise and then refrigerating it, which actually enhances the flavor. After refrigerating, allow the dough to come back to room temperature before proceeding with the second rise. Additionally, you can fill the dimples with raspberry preserves and keep it covered in the fridge for a day before baking; this ensures the focaccia stays fresh and delicious. When ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and follow the remaining steps. Enjoy the time-saving benefits of this delightful treat, making your brunch effortless yet special!
Expert Tips for Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia
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Perfect Water Temperature: Always ensure your warm water is between 105-115°F. Too hot can kill the yeast, preventing your focaccia from rising.
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Knead Gently: Over-mixing can lead to a dense texture. Be gentle while kneading; just enough to create a smooth dough for the ideal homemade jam donut focaccia.
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Deep Dimples: Make those dimples deep! Shallow ones may disappear during the second rise, so poke down enough to keep the jam-filled pockets.
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Fresh Ingredients: Check the expiration date on your yeast. Fresh active dry yeast is vital for a good rise, making your focaccia light and airy.
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Enjoy Fresh: For the best experience, eat the focaccia on the same day it’s made. If storing, ensure it’s in an airtight container to preserve freshness.
Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this delightful focaccia your own with these exciting twists!
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Berry Bliss: Swap raspberry preserves for strawberry or blueberry. Each fruit offers a unique sweetness that can make this classic even more irresistible!
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Chocolate Lovers: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips into the dough. The melty chocolate pairs perfectly with any jam, turning your focaccia into an indulgent treat.
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate ½ cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or hazelnuts, into the dough for added texture and a delightful nutty flavor.
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Citrus Zest: Add a tablespoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough. This brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing twist to the overall taste.
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Spiced Delight: Sprinkle in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, cozy flavor profile—perfect for chilly mornings!
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Dairy-Free: Replace whole milk with almond or oat milk in the icing for a dairy-free option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
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Savory Twist: Use a savory jam like Fig or Tomato Jam instead of raspberry preserves. These unexpected flavors create a delightful contrast that pairs beautifully with the focaccia’s base.
Elevate your homemade jam donut focaccia experience further by serving it alongside a warm cup of coffee or a bowl of satisfying Wonton Soup for a truly enchanting brunch spread!
Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for my focaccia?
Absolutely! When choosing your raspberry preserves or any jam, opt for brands that contain real fruit without added preservatives. Look for jars that have a rich color and a sweet, fruity smell; these indicate good quality and flavor. If you’re using fresh ingredients, like fruits for alternative fillings, make sure they’re ripe but not overripe, avoiding any with dark spots or mushiness.
How should I store leftover focaccia?
Very good question! Store your homemade jam donut focaccia at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. If it starts to dry out, placing a slice of bread in the container can help retain moisture. If you wish to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to freeze it for up to 1 month—perfect for enjoying another day!
Can I freeze this focaccia? If so, how?
Definitely! Freezing is a great way to keep your focaccia for later enjoyment. After baking, let it cool completely. Wrap the focaccia tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just remove it from the freezer, unwrap, and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until it’s warmed through and fluffy again.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Baking adventures can come with a few bumps! If your dough doesn’t rise, first check your yeast’s freshness—expired or improperly stored yeast can cause issues. Ensure that your water was in the right temperature range (105-115°F) to activate the yeast properly. If the dough is still stubborn, try placing it in a warm, draft-free area; you can even place it in the oven (turned off) with the light on to create a cozy environment for rising.
Is this homemade focaccia safe for my dog?
Great inquiry! While the ingredients in homemade jam donut focaccia aren’t toxic to dogs, it is best to keep it as a treat for humans. The sugar and preservatives in the jam can upset a dog’s stomach, so please avoid sharing it with your furry friend. Always consult your vet before giving any human food to pets!
Can I adapt this recipe for allergens or dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can easily make this homemade jam donut focaccia more inclusive. For gluten-free options, substitute the flours with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. You can also use non-dairy milks, such as almond or oat milk, in the icing for those avoiding dairy. Enjoy personalizing this recipe to fit your needs while keeping that delightful taste intact!
Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia: Sweet Love in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir and let sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, combine the yeast mixture with bread flour, all-purpose flour, and salt. Stir until sticky dough forms, then knead for 8-10 minutes.
- Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough, transfer to a greased baking pan, press out evenly, and let rise for another hour.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F while the dough rises.
- Poke dimples in the dough, spread raspberry preserves evenly across, ensuring each bite is filled.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes until golden brown and hollow when tapped.
- Poke additional holes after baking and fill with more raspberry preserves while warm.
- Combine confectioners’ sugar with whole milk to make icing; adjust to smooth consistency.
- Drizzle or spread icing over the warm focaccia and serve slices warm.
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