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There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen, and this Small-Batch Cheesy Focaccia brings that magic right to your home. Picture this: a golden-brown crust crisping beautifully in the oven, while a delightful blend of mozzarella and Parmesan melts to perfection on top. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch followed by a tender, fluffy interior that’s simply irresistible.

After a long day or during cozy weekends, this focaccia makes for an easy, comforting snack or a stunning side to your favorite soup or salad. Best of all, making it at home means you can enjoy it fresh out of the pan, embracing the sheer joy of homemade goodness. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, this simple recipe is sure to impress—especially when shared with family and friends. Dive in, and let’s create a warm, cheesy feast that will elevate your mealtime experience!

Why is Small-Batch Cheesy Focaccia a Must-Try?

Delightfully Easy: This recipe is designed for anyone—whether you’re a novice or a pro in the kitchen.

Savory Richness: Indulge in the cheesy goodness of mozzarella and Parmesan melded perfectly with a fluffy base.

Perfect for Sharing: Its warm, inviting aroma makes it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering or cozy dinner.

Quick Preparation: Whip it up in under two hours, making it the ideal option for a last-minute snack or accompaniment.

Versatile Treat: Enjoy it warm with olive oil for dipping, or try it without cheese for a delightful twist. For even more options, consider these variation ideas.

Small-Batch Cheesy Focaccia Ingredients

For the Dough

Bread Flour – Provides structure and strength; can use all-purpose flour, but bread flour yields a chewier texture.
Table Salt – Enhances flavor.
Instant Yeast – Leavening agent that helps the dough rise quickly; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
Lukewarm Water – Activates the yeast without killing it; ideally at 100°F.
Olive Oil – Adds flavor and moisture; can substitute with melted butter for a richer taste.

For the Toppings

Mozzarella Cheese – Offers a gooey texture; use fresh for best results or pre-grated for convenience.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds a savory, tangy flavor to the focaccia; Pecorino Romano can be used for a sharper taste.

How to Make Small-Batch Cheesy Focaccia

Whisk Together
In a medium bowl, whisk the bread flour, table salt, and instant yeast until well combined. This simple mix is the foundation of your delicious focaccia, setting the stage for flavor.
Combine Ingredients
Add the lukewarm water and 1 ½ teaspoons of olive oil to your dry ingredients. Mix until the dough is homogenous and slightly sticky, which should take just a couple of minutes.
Rest the Dough
Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rest in a warm spot for about 15 minutes. This brief pause allows the yeast to activate and start working its magic.
Perform Bowl Folds
Gently stretch and press the dough into the center of the bowl, then let it rest for 15 minutes. Repeat this folding process twice more to develop your focaccia’s amazing texture.
Let It Rise
Now, cover the bowl again and let the dough rise for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it’s slightly puffy. Patience here pays off with a beautifully airy bread!
Prepare the Pan
Grease a loaf pan generously with the remaining olive oil. Transfer the risen dough to the pan, dimpling it to fit. Those little dips will trap more cheese and flavor!
Second Rise
Allow the dough to rise again in the pan for an additional 1 ½ to 2 hours, until it looks visibly puffy. This step is key for achieving that light, fluffy inside.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 500°F (with a baking stone, if you have one). The high temperature creates that perfect crispy crust we all crave!
First Bake
Bake the focaccia at 450°F for 8 to 10 minutes until it turns lightly golden. Then, sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese around the edges and return to the oven for an extra 10 to 12 minutes until the cheese is crispy and bubbly.
Cool and Serve
Allow the focaccia to cool slightly in the pan before transferring to a wire rack. Once it’s slightly warm, it’s ready to be devoured!

Optional: Enjoy with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of sea salt.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Small-Batch Cheesy Focaccia

Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise flour measurement, ensuring a consistent dough texture and the perfect rise in your focaccia.
Temperature Matters: Always check that your lukewarm water is around 100°F to activate the yeast properly. Too hot can kill the yeast!
Rest for Success: If the dough feels tough while shaping, let it rest a few minutes before dimpling. This relaxes the gluten and makes handling easier.
Optimal Baking: For the best crust, use a baking stone or steel; it helps create that delightful crunch without any special equipment, you can use a baking sheet too.
Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to customize your Small-Batch Cheesy Focaccia with herbs or different types of cheese, like feta or cheddar, for a unique twist on flavor!

What to Serve with Small-Batch Cheesy Focaccia?

A delightful spread can elevate your cheesy focaccia experience into an unforgettable meal.

Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens tossed with tangy vinaigrette balance the rich flavors of the focaccia perfectly. The refreshing crunch of cucumbers and tomatoes creates an enticing contrast.
Savory Tomato Soup: The warm, velvety tomatoes complement the cheesy bread, ideal for dipping. This combination is not just comforting—it’s a classic pairing that feels like a warm hug on a cold day.
Herb-Infused Olive Oil: Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil infused with herbs for added taste. This simple yet flavorful dip enhances every bite, highlighting the focaccia’s delightful crunch.
Italian Antipasto Platter: Pair it with marinated olives, roasted red peppers, and artisanal cheeses. Each bite becomes a delightful adventure, bringing an Italian flair to your meal.
Creamy Spinach Dip: This warm, cheesy dip offers a decadent treat that contrasts nicely with the airy, crunchy focaccia. It’s perfect for dipping and sharing with friends during cozy gatherings.
Chilled White Wine: A light, crisp white will enhance the flavors of both the focaccia and any accompanying dishes. The refreshing notes of the wine will keep the meal feeling vibrant and breezy.
Homemade Pesto: This aromatic blend of basil and garlic adds a burst of flavor that complements the subtle cheese. Spread it over a slice of focaccia for an Italian-inspired delight.

How to Store and Freeze Small-Batch Cheesy Focaccia

Airtight Container: Store your focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps the texture tender while preventing it from becoming stale.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the focaccia tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw it at room temperature overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To revive your focaccia, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm it for about 10 minutes. This restores its crispy exterior and fluffy interior, making it taste freshly baked again.

Cheese Quality: If you’ve added cheese, ensure it’s properly sealed and consume within this timeframe for the best flavor and texture of your Small-Batch Cheesy Focaccia.

Make Ahead Options

These Small-Batch Cheesy Focaccia are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow steps 1-5, cover the bowl tightly, and refrigerate to slow the fermentation. The dough can also rise in the loaf pan for up to 3 days if you cover it well and keep it cool in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, bring the dough back to room temperature, allow it to rise for 1-2 hours until puffy, and then bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, cheesy focaccia with minimal effort, just as delicious as if made the same day!

Small-Batch Cheesy Focaccia Variations

Feel free to tailor your cheesy focaccia to suit your cravings and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Substitute the cheeses with your favorite plant-based alternatives like cashew or almond cheese for a creamy, dairy-free delight.
Herb-Infused: Mix chopped fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme into the dough for a fragrant flavor twist that elevates every bite.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the dough or sprinkle them over the cheese before baking for a delightful heat.
Garlic Lover’s: Mince fresh garlic and mix it with olive oil to brush on top before the second rise, infusing the bread with aromatic goodness.
Olive Medley: Top the focaccia with a blend of Kalamata and green olives before baking for a sophisticated, savory depth that complements the cheese.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Include chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor and a lovely pop of color; they pair beautifully with cheese.
Nutty Texture: Toss in toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added crunch and a nutty flavor that transforms your focaccia into a gourmet treat.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or sharp cheddar for distinctive flavors that play beautifully with the focaccia’s base.

Small-Batch Cheesy Focaccia Recipe FAQs

What kind of flour should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using bread flour for the best results as it provides strength and structure to your focaccia. If you don’t have any on hand, all-purpose flour can be a substitute, though it may yield a slightly less chewy texture.

How should I store leftover focaccia?
To keep your focaccia fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil allows for freezing up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Can I freeze the Small-Batch Cheesy Focaccia? How?
Absolutely! To freeze, follow these steps:

Allow the focaccia to cool completely after baking.
Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to protect against freezer burn.
Follow up with a layer of aluminum foil for added protection.
Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

What should I do if my dough isn’t rising?
If your dough isn’t rising, first check the freshness of your instant yeast, as expired yeast can lead to poor results. Ensure that the water you’re using is lukewarm (around 100°F) but not too hot to activate the yeast. If the dough feels tough while shaping, let it rest for a few minutes to relax the gluten before continuing.

Is this focaccia recipe suitable for those with gluten allergies?
While the Small-Batch Cheesy Focaccia is traditionally made with gluten-containing flour, you can modify it by using a dedicated gluten-free flour mix. Be sure to follow a gluten-free recipe intended for bread to achieve the best results, as the texture will vary from the original.