Ingredients
Method
Preparation
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- 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.
- Make the brown butter: Melt butter over medium heat, stirring until golden-amber. Cool for about 10 minutes.
- Make the cinnamon topping: Mix brown sugar and cinnamon into the browned butter until dissolved.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
