Asiago Cheese Focaccia Bread: A Classic Italian Treat
Asiago cheese focaccia bread is a mouthwatering twist on the traditional Italian flatbread. Its crispy crust and the rich, gooey flavor of shredded Asiago cheese will delight you.
Mix warm water, instant yeast, high-quality olive oil, and all-purpose flour to make it, then incorporate that delicious cheese. After a couple of rises, bake it until golden brown and drizzled with olive oil for an irresistible finish.
This focaccia is perfect as a snack, in sandwiches, or paired with some balsamic vinegar. Curious about how to enhance its flavor even more? There’s plenty more to discover.
Key Takeaways
- Focaccia is an Italian flatbread made with flour, water, yeast, olive oil, and salt, enhanced with shredded Asiago cheese for flavor.
- To make Asiago cheese focaccia, activate the yeast in warm water, mix in other ingredients, knead, and let rise.
- Shredded Asiago cheese is incorporated into the dough and can also be sprinkled on top before baking for extra flavor.
- Bake the focaccia at 400°F for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and allow it to cool for better texture.
- Serve Asiago cheese focaccia with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, or as a base for sandwiches and soups for a delicious experience.
Key Ingredients Needed
When crafting delicious Asiago cheese focaccia, you’ll want to gather several essential ingredients that work together to create an irresistible bread. The foundation of your focaccia starts with 1.5 cups of warm water and a package of instant yeast to guarantee that the dough rises perfectly. To add richness, don’t forget 0.5 cup of extra virgin olive oil.
Here’s a quick overview of the key ingredients you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Warm water | 1.5 cups | Activates yeast |
| Instant yeast | 1 package (2.25 tsp) | Promotes rising |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 0.5 cup | Enhances flavor |
| All-purpose flour | 3.75 cups | Creates dough structure |
| Fine sea salt | 1.5 teaspoons | Balances taste |
| Shredded Asiago cheese | 1.25 cups | Adds flavor and texture |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon | Activates yeast |
| Fresh herbs (optional) | To taste | Toppings for flavor |
Ingredient Sourcing Tips
Finding quality ingredients for your Asiago cheese focaccia can make all the difference in the final product. Start with shredded Asiago cheese, which you’ll find in the dairy section of your grocery store, often pre-packaged for your convenience. For the base of your focaccia, head to the baking aisle and choose all-purpose or bread flour, as both work wonderfully.
Next, don’t skimp on the flavor; select high-quality extra virgin olive oil near the vinegar and cooking oils. This will elevate your focaccia’s taste considerably. When it comes to leavening, look for active dry yeast in small packets or jars in the baking section, and check the expiration date for peak performance.
Lastly, for a touch of sweetness, pick up raw sugar from the sugar aisle, opting for organic varieties to enhance the flavor naturally.
Steps to Make Focaccia
Making Asiago cheese focaccia bread is a rewarding culinary adventure that begins with activating the yeast. Start by combining 1.5 cups of warm water (under 110°F) with 1 packet of instant yeast. Let it sit for 10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is ready to work its magic. Next, stir in 0.5 cup of extra virgin olive oil, then add 3.75 cups of all-purpose flour, 1.5 teaspoons of fine sea salt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough for 3-4 minutes until smooth and elastic, incorporating 1.25 cups of shredded asiago cheese for that delicious flavor. Allow the dough to rise in a warm area for 1.5-2 hours until it doubles in size. After that, shape it into pans and let it rise again for another 1.5 hours.
Baking Instructions and Tips
Now that your Asiago cheese focaccia dough has risen beautifully, it’s time to bring it to life in the oven. First, preheat your oven to 400°F. This guarantees even cooking and a perfectly crispy crust. Once heated, drizzle olive oil generously over the shaped dough. Use your fingers to create dimples in the surface; this prevents bubbling and helps the cheese adhere beautifully.
Before you place the dough in the oven, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Asiago cheese on top. This will melt into a delightful, flavorful topping as it bakes. Bake the focaccia for 30-35 minutes until it turns a gorgeous golden brown, indicating it’s fully cooked with a crusty exterior.
After baking, resist the urge to slice right away! Allow the focaccia to cool for about 30 minutes. This enhances the texture and makes slicing easier.
| Step | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Preheat | Set oven to 400°F | For even cooking |
| Dimple | Create dimples with fingers | Prevents bubbling |
| Bake | Cook for 30-35 minutes | Look for golden brown |
| Cool | Let sit for 30 minutes | Improves texture for slicing |
Storage and Freezing Options
You can keep your Asiago focaccia fresh at room temperature for up to two days, making it a perfect snack or side dish. If you want to enjoy it longer, slice and wrap it tightly before freezing for up to a month. When you’re ready to savor it again, just thaw and reheat for that delightful, freshly baked taste.
Room Temperature Storage
Storing your asiago cheese focaccia at room temperature is a simple way to keep it fresh for up to two days. To guarantee it maintains its delightful flavor and texture, place your focaccia bread in an airtight container. This method prevents moisture from seeping in, which could lead to a soggy crust.
If you plan to enjoy your focaccia beyond a couple of days, consider freezing it. While this discussion focuses on room temperature storage, knowing that you can slice the focaccia, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and then freeze it for up to a month without significant loss of quality is helpful.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply allow the frozen focaccia to thaw at room temperature. For the best results, don’t forget to reheat it in the oven to restore that crispy texture you love.
Freezing and Thawing
Freezing asiago cheese focaccia can be a game changer for preserving its deliciousness and extending its shelf life. To freeze your focaccia, slice it and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This method helps maintain freshness for up to one month and prevents moisture loss, ensuring the flavor stays intact.
When you’re ready to enjoy your focaccia, simply thaw it by allowing it to sit at room temperature for a few hours or overnight for the best results. To achieve ideal texture, reheat the thawed focaccia in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. This step revitalizes the bread, making it warm and inviting.
To elevate the flavor before serving, drizzle the reheated focaccia with a bit of olive oil or pair it with balsamic vinegar for dipping. This not only enhances the taste but also brings out the richness of the asiago cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Asiago cheese focaccia bread often shines in various culinary contexts, making it a delightful addition to your meals. You can enhance its rich flavors by serving it with high-quality olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. This combination elevates the bread’s taste and makes for an irresistible appetizer.
For lunch or dinner, consider using the focaccia as a base for sandwiches. It pairs wonderfully with fillings like turkey, mozzarella, or vibrant fresh vegetables, creating a satisfying meal. You might also enjoy it as a side dish alongside creamy soups, such as ham and potato or tomato basil, adding a comforting touch to your dining experience.
If you’re in the mood for a snack, simply cut the focaccia into bite-sized pieces and serve them with marinara sauce for dipping. This creates a fun, shareable treat that everyone will love.
To take your asiago focaccia bread to the next level, sprinkle fresh herbs or additional cheese on top just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Unhealthy Is Focaccia Bread?
Focaccia bread can be quite unhealthy if consumed in excess. It’s high in calories, fats, and sodium, which may lead to health issues like high blood pressure. Moderation is key to enjoying it without guilt.
What Makes Focaccia Bread Different?
Focaccia’s flat shape, crispy crust, and chewy center set it apart. Its dimples hold olive oil and toppings, while the enriched dough offers moisture and flavor. You’ll enjoy its versatility and quick, high-temperature baking.
What’s the Difference Between Flatbread and Focaccia Bread?
Focaccia bread’s thicker, fluffier texture comes from yeast, unlike flatbread, which is often unleavened. Focaccia’s rich toppings and chewy density make it versatile for sandwiches or sides, while flatbreads serve various cultural dishes.
How Many Calories Are in Panera Bread Asiago Cheese Focaccia?
When you crave a calorie-rich treat, Panera’s Asiago Cheese Focaccia delivers about 580 calories. Its delightful decadence comes from a hearty mix of cheese, fat, and carbs, making it a satisfying choice for your taste buds.
Asiago Cheese Focaccia: The Perfect Appetizer From the Oven to the Heart
As you savor your homemade asiago cheese focaccia, think of it as a warm embrace, inviting you to share its delightful flavors with friends and family. Just like the Mediterranean sun warms the earth, this bread brings comfort and joy to your table.
Remember, each bite offers a symphony of textures and tastes, reminding you that the simplest ingredients can create unforgettable moments. So, gather around and let this delicious focaccia inspire memories that linger long after the last crumb is gone.
