Focaccia Muffins Recipe

Imagine all the aromatic, olive oil-kissed comfort of classic focaccia, but in the most delightful, hand-held form—welcome to Focaccia Muffins! These no-knead, pillowy bites deliver the golden crust and chewy crumb you adore, with three tempting topping variations to suit every palate. Perfect for sharing, snacking, or adding a special touch to everyday meals!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Focaccia Muffins truly irresistible is just how beautifully simple the ingredient list is! Each addition has a purpose—from the robust olive oil that creates that signature golden crust, to the yeast that brings an airy rise, and the tantalizing toppings that invite you to customize every batch.

• All Purpose Flour: The ideal base for an airy, chewy crumb—bread flour works too, but all-purpose gives a gentler bite.
• Salt: Provides essential flavor and balances the yeast’s activity, ensuring each bite is savory yet not overpowering.
• Instant Yeast: No need to proof separately if you use instant—just mix it in for a hands-off rise right in the fridge. (Swap for active dry yeast if that’s what you have!)
• Sugar: Just a touch helps wake up the yeast and enhances the subtle complexity of the dough.
• Warm Water: The combination of room temperature and a bit of boiling water ensures that the yeast activates without being shocked.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds flavor, encourages browning, and gives Focaccia Muffins their iconic moist, golden crust.
• Basil Pesto: Swirls of herbaceous pesto make for a fragrant, flavorful topping option.
• Rosemary and Salt: Classic focaccia flavor—earthy, salty, and completely irresistible.
• Cherry Tomatoes, Olives & Oregano: These Mediterranean-inspired toppings bring freshness, juiciness, and a pop of color to every muffin.

Variations

The beauty of Focaccia Muffins is just how easy it is to mix things up. Whether you’re accommodating dietary needs or simply feeling creative, these muffins are the ultimate blank canvas—let your toppings do the talking!

• Cheesy Focaccia Muffins: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top before baking for a melted, savory touch.
• Vegan Delight: Use your favorite vegan pesto or olive tapenade for toppings; they’re just as flavorful and satisfying.
• Herb Garden: Experiment with sage, thyme, or chives if you want something different from the typical rosemary.
• Garlic Lovers: Add sliced or minced garlic on top for an aromatic, punchy finish on your Focaccia Muffins.

How to Make Focaccia Muffins

Step 1: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the flour and salt. In a separate cup, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar—if using active dry yeast, let it sit until it gets foamy. Slowly pour the liquid into the flour, stirring as you go, until no dry bits remain. The dough will be quite sticky, but that’s exactly what you want for pillowy Focaccia Muffins!

Step 2: The Overnight Rise

Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the surface of the dough, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap. Pop the whole thing into the refrigerator and let it proof overnight—10 to 14 hours is perfect. By morning, your dough should be gloriously bubbly and have tripled in size.

Step 3: Shaping the Muffins

Generously brush a non-stick muffin tin with olive oil, taking extra care around the edges. Use a measuring cup or greased ladle to scoop and portion the dough evenly into the muffin wells. Don’t worry if it’s messy—these are meant to be rustic!

Step 4: Second Rise & Dimpling

Cover the tin with an inverted baking tray (to prevent sticking), and let the muffins proof at room temperature for about an hour. When they’re puffy, drizzle with more olive oil, then use oiled fingers to dimple the top of each one—this is when they start to really look like focaccia.

Step 5: Add Toppings & Bake

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Sprinkle each muffin with a pinch of flaky salt, then get creative with your toppings—press them in gently so they stick through baking. Bake on the bottom rack for 18–23 minutes, until the muffins are puffed and deeply golden.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Let the Focaccia Muffins cool for a few minutes in the tin, then run a toothpick around the edges to loosen if needed. Transfer to a wire rack to cool a little more, but I highly recommend tasting at least one while they’re still warm and fragrant!

How to Serve Focaccia Muffins

Garnishes

Finish your Focaccia Muffins with a drizzle of grassy olive oil, a scatter of flaky sea salt, or even a dusting of finely grated Parmesan to make them look—and taste—even more tempting. A touch of fresh chopped herbs takes them to the next level!

Side Dishes

Pair these muffins with a silky tomato soup or a crisp salad for a classic combo, or serve alongside antipasto platters, roasted veggies, or even your favorite pasta dishes. They turn simple meals into sparkling occasions!

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, arrange Focaccia Muffins on a wooden board mixed with cured meats and cheeses for a stunning Mediterranean spread. Try serving them in individual napkin-lined baskets or stack them high as a rustic centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, keep Focaccia Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Their crust stays lovely and their crumb remains tender with each nibble!

Freezing

These muffins freeze beautifully—simply wrap them tightly and pop into a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months and are terrific to have at the ready for last-minute snacks or gatherings.

Reheating

Revive your Focaccia Muffins by warming them in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 5–8 minutes. This brings back that fresh-baked aroma and soft center—just like the day you made them!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving bakery-style comfort with a playful twist, Focaccia Muffins are about to become your new favorite bake. They’re easy, endlessly customizable, and simply bursting with homemade flavor—so grab your muffin tin and share a warm batch with someone you love!

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