Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia

If you’re looking for a dish that fills your kitchen with warmth and delicious aromas, then this Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia is just the ticket! There’s something truly special about the combination of fluffy bread, fragrant thyme, and gooey gruyère cheese. This recipe has become a family favorite, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. Just imagine serving it warm, fresh from the oven, as a delightful appetizer or side dish during the holidays!

This focaccia isn’t just about taste; it also brings joy to the cooking process. Whether you’re baking with little ones or preparing for a dinner party, this recipe is straightforward and fun. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accompany any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and ingredients, you’ll be enjoying homemade focaccia in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves the cheesy goodness and soft texture—perfect for kids and adults alike!
• Make ahead: You can prepare the dough in advance, making it ideal for busy days.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of gruyère and thyme creates a mouthwatering aroma that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Versatile side dish: This focaccia pairs beautifully with soups, salads, or as part of a holiday spread.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients is half the fun! You’ll find that these are all simple, wholesome items that you likely already have on hand or can easily find at your local store. Here’s what you need to create this delicious Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia:

For the Dough

• 6 1/4 cups bread flour
• 2 teaspoons instant dry yeast
• 2 cups warm water (105°F – 115°F or 40°C – 46°C)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 4 teaspoons fine sea salt

For Topping

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (plus more for greasing the sheet pan)
• 1/4 cup room temperature water
• 7 ounces gruyère cheese (sliced into small cubes)
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• 2 teaspoons Maldon sea salt flakes

Variations

This focaccia recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with toppings or flavors based on your preferences. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Add veggies: Toss in some roasted garlic or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor boost.
• Change the cheese: Swap out gruyère for mozzarella or feta for a different taste profile.
• Herb options: Experiment with rosemary or oregano instead of thyme to switch things up.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes for a hint of heat!

How to Make Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle in the instant yeast and let it sit for about five minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial because it activates the yeast, ensuring your focaccia rises beautifully. Once bubbly, stir in the flour and salt until combined.

Step 2: Knead It Out

Transfer your dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about ten minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Kneading helps develop gluten, which gives your focaccia its lovely chewy texture. If you have a stand mixer with a dough hook, feel free to use that instead!

Step 3: Let It Rise

Place the kneaded dough in an oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size—this usually takes about an hour. Watching it grow is one of my favorite parts of baking!

Step 4: Shape Your Focaccia

Once risen, gently deflate the dough on a greased sheet pan (12 x 18 inches). Stretch it out into an even layer. Use your fingers to create dimples all over—the classic signature of focaccia! This not only looks lovely but also helps hold onto all those tasty toppings.

Step 5: Top It Off

Drizzle olive oil over the surface of your dough. Scatter the gruyère cubes evenly across the top along with fresh thyme leaves and sprinkle Maldon sea salt flakes generously over everything. The cheese will melt beautifully while baking.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake your focaccia for about 50 minutes until golden brown on top. The wonderful aroma will fill your kitchen as it bakes—trust me; you’ll be counting down the minutes!

Step 7: Enjoy!

Once baked, let your focaccia cool slightly before slicing into pieces. Serve warm as an appetizer or alongside your favorite meal—it’s sure to impress everyone at the table!

Pro Tips for Making Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia

Baking focaccia can be a delightful experience, especially with these handy tips to ensure your Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients make a world of difference in flavor. Opt for good bread flour and extra virgin olive oil to enhance the taste and texture of your focaccia.
• Let It Rise Properly: Allowing the dough to rise in a warm environment not only helps it double in size but also creates air pockets that give the focaccia its signature lightness. Patience pays off!
• Don’t Skimp on Olive Oil: Generously greasing your pan and drizzling olive oil on top before baking not only prevents sticking but also results in a deliciously crispy crust that everyone will love.
• Experiment with Toppings: While gruyère and thyme are fantastic, feel free to experiment with other herbs or cheeses! Adding roasted garlic or sun-dried tomatoes can elevate your focaccia to new heights.
• Serve Fresh: Focaccia is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. If possible, plan to serve it shortly after baking for that irresistible aroma and texture that makes this bread so special.

How to Serve Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia

When it comes to serving your delightful focaccia, presentation can make all the difference. Here are some creative ideas to make your dish stand out at any gathering:

Garnishes

• Fresh Thyme Sprigs: A few sprigs of fresh thyme not only add a pop of color but also enhance the herby aroma already present in the focaccia.
• Flaky Sea Salt: A sprinkle of Maldon sea salt flakes on top right before serving provides an appealing crunch and elevates the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers complement the flavors of the focaccia while adding vibrant colors to your plate.
• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the cheese and olive oil.
• Lentil Soup: Hearty lentil soup is a comforting pairing with focaccia, providing warmth and nutrition that rounds out a meal perfectly.
• Grilled Chicken Breast: For those looking for protein, grilled chicken breast seasoned with herbs serves as a lovely complement without overshadowing the focaccia’s unique flavors.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia will not only taste amazing but also impress everyone at your table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy its delightful flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store and preserve this delicious treat.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil before refrigerating for up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow the focaccia to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the focaccia on a baking sheet and warm it for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• For a crispy crust, you can also warm it directly on the oven rack.

FAQs

If you have questions about making this foucaccia, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I substitute other cheeses in the Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia?

Absolutely! While Gruyère adds a unique flavor, you can use cheeses like mozzarella, fontina, or even vegan cheese alternatives if desired.

How long does it take to make Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia from start to finish?

The total time is approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes, including prep time and resting periods. Don’t worry; most of this time is hands-off!

Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh in the Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia?

Yes, you can use dried thyme if fresh isn’t available. Use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs tend to be more potent.

What should I serve with my Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia?

This focaccia pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or as part of a cheese platter. It’s also great on its own as a snack!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Gruyère & Thyme Italian Focaccia! Its aromatic blend of cheese and thyme makes it an exceptional choice for gatherings or cozy dinners at home. I can’t wait for you to experience its comforting flavors—happy baking!