The moment you step into your kitchen, a sweet aroma begins to envelop you, reminiscent of the best bakeries. That’s exactly what you’ll experience with my Simple Jam Donut Focaccia. Imagine the delightful marriage of soft, fluffy focaccia, punctuated with pockets of luscious jam, and topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar that dances on your tongue. This isn’t just bread; it’s a warm, inviting hug that makes every brunch feel special.
I came up with this recipe after a particularly nostalgic trip to a local bakery that replaced my usual donut cravings with a creative twist. It’s surprisingly easy to make—perfect for those busy mornings when you crave homemade goodness without the fuss. Whether you stick to classic strawberry jam or venture into tangy apricot and juicy blueberry, each bite is a delicious discovery. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s bring that cozy bakery vibe right into your home with this irresistible treat that promises to wow friends and family alike!
Why is Jam Donut Focaccia a Must-Try?
Irresistible flavors: The fusion of fluffy focaccia and sweet jam creates a delectable experience unlike any other.
Effortless preparation: This recipe is simple enough for bakers of all levels, making it a fun weekend project.
Versatile fillings: Customize it with your favorite jams or experiment with different flavors for endless variety.
Perfect for gatherings: Whether it’s brunch with friends or a cozy family breakfast, this treat is sure to impress.
Baking therapy: The act of kneading and shaping the dough offers a therapeutic escape from the daily hustle.
Great for leftovers: It stays delicious for days and can be easily reheated, ensuring you enjoy it longer!
Jam Donut Focaccia Ingredients
For the Dough
• All-purpose flour – 2 cups (250 g); provides the essential structure for this bread.
• Instant yeast – 1 tsp; acts as the leavening agent for that perfect rise.
• Sugar – 1 tsp; enhances yeast activation; honey or agave can be delightful substitutions.
• Salt – ½ tsp; balances flavors and strengthens the gluten in the dough.
• Warm water – ¾ cup (180 ml); hydrating the dough ensures a fluffy texture; be careful not to make it too hot.
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp; adds moisture and enhances flavor; melted coconut oil works well for a vegan option.
For the Topping
• Melted butter – ¼ cup (60 g); enriches the focaccia; feel free to use dairy-free butter for a vegan treat.
• Granulated sugar – ½ cup (100 g); used for the delightful cinnamon sugar topping; brown sugar can add a richer flavor.
• Ground cinnamon – 1 tsp; brings warmth and spice; consider pumpkin pie spice for a unique twist.
For the Fillings
• Strawberry or raspberry jam – ⅓ cup (100 g); provides pockets of fruity sweetness; swapping for apricot or blueberry jam can spice things up!
How to Make Jam Donut Focaccia
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually pour in the warm water and olive oil, mixing until you form a soft dough that sticks slightly to your fingers.
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Knead the Dough: Transfer the mixture onto a lightly floured surface, and knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes. Aim for a smooth and elastic texture, which will feel soft but not sticky.
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Let it Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
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Shape the Dough: Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release air. Grease a baking tray and spread the dough evenly across. Use your fingers to make dimples all over the surface.
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Add the Jam: Spoon dollops of your chosen jam into each dimple on the dough. Be generous to ensure each bite is infused with fruity goodness!
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Second Rise: Allow the dough to rest for 20 minutes as you preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps the focaccia rise a little more.
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Bake: Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and the jam starts bubbling.
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Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Once baked, remove your focaccia from the oven and brush the top with melted butter. Immediately sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture generously on top while it’s still warm.
Optional: Serve warm with a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Jam Donut Focaccia are an excellent choice for meal prep, ensuring you can enjoy this delightful treat with minimal fuss on busy mornings. You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the initial steps of combining and kneading the ingredients, then store the dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to develop beautifully while the dough chills. When you’re ready to bake, let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping, adding your jam, and proceeding with the second rise and baking steps. Remember, the key to maintaining quality is to keep the dough covered to prevent it from drying out. Enjoy this sweet delight fresh from the oven with the taste just like a local bakery!
What to Serve with Jam Donut Focaccia?
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread mingling with sweet jam, making each bite a delightful experience.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A bright medley of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet focaccia, enhancing each forkful with a burst of flavor.
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Creamy Yogurt: Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy, tangy balance that complements the sweetness of the jam perfectly.
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Coffee or Espresso: The rich, bold notes of coffee pair beautifully, awakening your senses and providing an adult twist to your brunch.
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Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea contrasts the sweetness, offering warmth and tranquility alongside those jam-filled pockets.
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Savory Cheese Platter: Pair slices with sharp cheddar or creamy brie for a delectable blend of sweet and savory that intrigues the palate.
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Homemade Lemonade: A glass of zesty lemonade revitalizes the taste buds, making each bite of focaccia an enticing adventure in flavors.
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Chocolate Drizzle: If serving for dessert, drizzle with melted chocolate for a decadent touch that will wow your loved ones.
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Seasonal Jam: Go for an alternative filling suggestion like apricot or blackberry jam on the side, so guests can personalize their experience.
Expert Tips for Jam Donut Focaccia
• Temperature Check: Ensure your warm water is about 110°F (43°C) to properly activate the instant yeast without killing it.
• Kneading Matters: Knead the dough well for a smooth, elastic texture. Skipping this step may lead to a denser focaccia.
• Use Generous Jam: Don’t skimp on the jam filling; it should fill each dimple generously for delightful bursts of flavor in every bite.
• Proper Rising: Allow the dough enough time to rise, as under-proofed dough can lead to a dense final product. Patience is key!
• Cinnamon Sugar Delight: Apply the cinnamon sugar topping generously while the focaccia is still warm for that irresistible crunch and flavor.
• Storage Secrets: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature, ensuring they stay fresh and delicious for a couple of days.
Jam Donut Focaccia Variations
Feel free to customize your dough and filling for an even more delightful experience!
- Fruit Jam Selection: Swap strawberry or raspberry jam for apricot, blueberry, or mixed berry jams to explore new flavor profiles.
- Zesty Upgrade: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon zest to the dough for a bright, citrusy enhancement that complements any jam.
- Choco Delight: Incorporate dark chocolate chips or chunks into the dough, and fill with your favorite jam for a decadent twist. Each bite will surprise with melty chocolate and fruity goodness.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts like hazelnuts or walnuts into the dough for an added texture layer that plays perfectly with the soft focaccia.
- Savory Surprise: Omit the sugar topping and fill with savory options like a garlic herb spread or cheese for a delightful non-sweet alternative. This variation transforms your focaccia into a unique appetizer.
- Heat It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your sugar mixture for a sweet and spicy surprise that will tingle your taste buds.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Use almond or soy milk in place of warm water to create a nutty-rich dough that’s perfect for your vegan friends.
- Granola Topping: Sprinkle a handful of granola on top before baking for a crunchy, breakfast-inspired version that goes great with coffee or tea.
With these variations, the possibilities are endless! Each change enhances the overall experience and invites you to make this delightful bread your own. Enjoy the creative journey!
How to Store and Freeze Jam Donut Focaccia
Room Temperature: Store the focaccia covered with a kitchen towel or in an airtight container for up to 2 days to keep it fresh.
Fridge: If you want to extend its shelf life, wrap the focaccia in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.
Freezer: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy the focaccia again, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes to restore its fluffy texture.
Jam Donut Focaccia Recipe FAQs
What type of flour should I use for the Jam Donut Focaccia?
Using all-purpose flour is ideal for achieving that fluffy texture, but you can substitute it with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Just ensure you’re using a blend that can mimic the elasticity of traditional flour.
How should I store the leftover Jam Donut Focaccia?
To keep your focaccia fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you wish to extend its freshness, consider wrapping it in plastic wrap and refrigerating it, which can last up to 5 days. Simply reheat in the oven before serving to revive its delightful texture!
Can I freeze Jam Donut Focaccia?
Absolutely! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and they’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes to regain that fresh-baked warmth.
What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
If your dough isn’t rising, double-check that your yeast is active—warm water should be about 110°F (43°C). It’s also crucial to give it enough time to rise in a warm place. If the room temperature is too cool, you can place the bowl inside an oven turned off, with the light on, to create a warm environment.
Are there any dietary concerns with making this Jam Donut Focaccia?
Certainly! To make it vegan, you can replace both the butter and milk with dairy-free alternatives like coconut oil and almond milk. Also, if you have allergies, ensure your jam doesn’t contain any allergens like nuts or gluten. Always read labels carefully to protect your dietary needs.
What kind of jam can I use for the fillings?
You can use any favorite jam, but I recommend classic choices like strawberry or raspberry for a sweet touch. Feel free to experiment with apricot, blueberry, or even mixed berry jams for a delightful twist. Just ensure the jam is thick enough not to seep too much during baking!
Jam Donut Focaccia: Your New Favorite Sweet Treat at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually pour in the warm water and olive oil, mixing until you form a soft dough that sticks slightly to your fingers.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the mixture onto a lightly floured surface, and knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes. Aim for a smooth and elastic texture, which will feel soft but not sticky.
- Let it Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough: Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release air. Grease a baking tray and spread the dough evenly across. Use your fingers to make dimples all over the surface.
- Add the Jam: Spoon dollops of your chosen jam into each dimple on the dough. Be generous to ensure each bite is infused with fruity goodness!
- Second Rise: Allow the dough to rest for 20 minutes as you preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps the focaccia rise a little more.
- Bake: Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and the jam starts bubbling.
- Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Once baked, remove your focaccia from the oven and brush the top with melted butter. Immediately sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture generously on top while it's still warm.