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Cinnamon Focaccia

A delightful and aromatic dessert combining homemade bread with warm cinnamon and sugar, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 12 pieces
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Baking
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 2 cups warm water (heated to approximately 110°F) Activates the yeast
  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast Make sure it is fresh
  • 1 teaspoon white granulated sugar Nourishes the yeast
  • 4 cups bread flour Spoon and level for accuracy
  • 1.5 teaspoons salt Enhances flavor
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Helps create a crispy crust and adds richness
For the Topping
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted) For a buttery finish
  • 6 tablespoons brown butter Adds nutty richness
  • 1/3 cup light brown sugar Complement to cinnamon flavor
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon Aromatic spice
For the Icing
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted) For finishing touch
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds fragrance
  • 2.5 tablespoons milk Adjust for desired consistency

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for 10-15 minutes until it becomes foamy.
  2. Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Pour in the activated yeast mixture along with the olive oil. Stir until a sticky dough ball forms.
  3. First rise: Cover the bowl with a damp tea towel or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours.
Baking
  1. Second rise: Grease a baking pan and line it with parchment paper. Pour melted butter into the center. Place the risen dough into the pan. Cover it and let rise for another 1.5 to 2 hours.
  2. Make the brown butter: Melt butter over medium heat, stirring until golden-amber. Cool for about 10 minutes.
  3. Make the cinnamon topping: Mix brown sugar and cinnamon into the browned butter until dissolved.
  4. Dimple the dough: Preheat the oven to 450°F. Wet fingers and press dimples into the dough. Drizzle the cinnamon-butter mixture over the dough.
  5. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack.
  6. Finish with icing: Combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Drizzle over warm focaccia and slice into squares.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or raisins to the topping. Always ensure water is warm but not too hot to prevent killing the yeast. The longer the dough rises, the more developed the flavor will be.