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Fluffy sourdough focaccia slices on a cutting board, showing large air pockets and a crispy crust.

Sourdough Focaccia Recipe

This easy sourdough focaccia is a delicious blend of soft, airy bread with a crisp, golden crust. Naturally leavened with a sourdough starter. Top it with your favorite herbs and a drizzle of olive oil for a truly irresistible treat.
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Servings

Ingredients

  • 100 grams active sourdough starter
  • 500 grams bread flour aka high gluten flour
  • 410 grams water
  • 10 grams olive oil
  • 10 grams salt

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter, bread flour, and 400 grams of water. Mix until the ingredients are just combined. The dough will be very wet and sticky.
  • Let the dough rest for 20-30 minutes. This resting period, known as autolyse, helps to hydrate the flour and develop gluten.
  • After 30 minutes, add the salt, remaining 10 grams of water, and olive oil. Knead the dough for 2-3 minutes. The dough will still be very wet.
  • Cover the bowl and let the dough rest at room temperature for 2-3 hours. During this time, perform a stretch and fold every 30-40 minutes. To do this, wet your hands, grab one side of the dough, stretch it upwards, and fold it over itself. Turn the bowl and repeat until you’ve stretched and folded all four sides.
  • After the bulk rise, generously oil a 9x13-inch sheet pan. Transfer the dough to the pan and gently stretch it out to cover the bottom. If the dough resists, let it rest for 20-30 minutes before stretching it again. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight for 10-18 hours or leave it at room temperature for 2-4 hours if you prefer to bake the same day.
  • Remove the dough from the fridge 2 hours before baking to allow it to come to room temperature.
  • Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Oil your hands and gently press the dough to create dimples all over the surface. Drizzle olive oil, sprinkle with your favorite herbs, and add a pinch of salt.
  • Bake the focaccia for 30 minutes or until it is deep golden brown.

Notes

Feel free to get creative with your focaccia toppings! Some of my favorites include:
  • Roasted Garlic and Tomatoes: The roasted garlic adds a mellow richness, while the tomatoes provide a burst of sweetness.
  • Roasted Grapes and Purple Onion: The roasted grapes bring a subtle sweetness, and the purple onion adds a mild, savory note.
  • Zaatar: It adds a tangy, aromatic twist that pairs beautifully with the olive oil, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.
  • Olives and Herbs: You can never go wrong with this classic combo. It’s simple, fresh, and always hits the spot.
  • Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil: The sun-dried tomatoes bring a concentrated sweetness, while the fresh basil adds a fragrant, herbaceous note that brightens up the bread.