Christmas Tree Focaccia

If you’re looking for a fun and festive way to elevate your holiday gatherings, look no further than this delightful Christmas Tree Focaccia. This recipe not only looks stunning on your table but also fills the home with a warm, inviting aroma as it bakes. It’s a wonderful centerpiece that brings everyone together, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

What makes this Christmas Tree Focaccia truly special is how easy it is to prepare. With just a bit of time and some simple ingredients, you can create a beautiful bread that tastes as good as it looks. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying it all to yourself, this focaccia is sure to become a new holiday favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With minimal hands-on time, this focaccia dough practically makes itself overnight.
• Family-friendly: Everyone will love decorating their own edible tree with colorful toppings!
• Customizable: Use whatever vegetables you have on hand for the decorations, making each focaccia unique.
• Impressive presentation: Your guests will be wowed by this beautiful centerpiece that’s sure to spark conversation.
• Perfect for any occasion: While it shines during the holidays, this recipe is great for any gathering or even a simple weeknight dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for this Christmas Tree Focaccia are simple and wholesome. Most of them are pantry staples! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 3 cups bread flour
• 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 1/4 tsp coarse salt
• 1 2/3 cup warm water
• Pear, pearl onions, cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion
• Fresh rosemary sprigs
• Coarse salt
• Plenty of olive oil (a few Tbs.)

Variations

One of the best things about this Christmas Tree Focaccia is its flexibility. You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand!

• Swap the toppings: Use roasted bell peppers or zucchini instead of cherry tomatoes for a different flavor.
• Try different herbs: Experiment with thyme or basil alongside rosemary for an aromatic twist.
• Add cheese: Sprinkle some dairy-free cheese on top before baking for an extra layer of flavor.
• Make it sweeter: Add sliced apples or figs as ornaments for a sweet surprise!

How to Make Christmas Tree Focaccia

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Whisk until everything is blended together nicely. Then, add the warm water and stir using a wooden spoon until the dough becomes shaggy and wet. This step is crucial because it allows the yeast to activate overnight while developing fantastic flavors. Once mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and a clean kitchen towel and let it sit on your counter overnight—at least 12 hours.

Step 2: Shape the Focaccia

The next day, grab your casserole dish (mine was about 7×12 inches) and drizzle a good amount of olive oil on the bottom. Uncover your dough—it should be beautifully risen and bubbly! Carefully tip it out into your casserole dish and spread it with your hands so that it fits snugly in the dish. Dimple it gently with your fingers to create little pockets for more olive oil drizzles later on. Cover lightly again and let it rest for two more hours—this helps develop that lovely texture we all adore!

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

While your dough rises again, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will give you that perfect golden crust we’re aiming for when we bake our focaccia.

Step 4: Decorate Your Tree

Now comes the fun part—decorating! Use fresh rosemary sprigs as branches fanned out across your dough. Slice small pieces of pear for a sturdy tree base and use halved cherry tomatoes and pearl onions as ornaments. Get creative! Maybe even add some more sliced pear at the top as an adorable tree topper! The best part? There are no wrong choices here; just let your imagination run wild.

Step 5: Bake

Once you’ve decorated your tree to perfection, sprinkle a little coarse salt over the top before placing it in the oven. Bake for about 25 minutes until it’s puffed up and golden brown. The aroma will fill your home with holiday cheer!

Step 6: Serve

Let your beautiful focaccia rest for just a few minutes before slicing into it. Serve warm and watch everyone enjoy this stunning creation together!

With its festive flair and delicious flavor, this Christmas Tree Focaccia is bound to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions!

Pro Tips for Making Christmas Tree Focaccia

Creating the perfect Christmas Tree Focaccia is a delightful experience, and a few helpful tips can make it even better!

• Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of your focaccia largely depends on the quality of your bread flour and olive oil. Opting for fresh, high-quality ingredients will enhance the taste and texture of your focaccia.

• Give it time to rise: Patience is key! Allowing the dough to rise overnight not only improves the flavor but also contributes to a soft, airy texture in the finished bread.

• Experiment with decorations: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Different vegetables, herbs, or even edible flowers can be used to make your focaccia unique and personal. This adds both visual appeal and a variety of flavors.

• Don’t skip the dimpling step: Dimpling the dough before adding toppings creates little pockets that help hold on to olive oil and garnishes, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.

• Keep an eye on baking time: Ovens can vary, so start checking your focaccia a few minutes before the end of the suggested baking time. You’re looking for that golden-brown crust!

How to Serve Christmas Tree Focaccia

Presenting your beautifully crafted Christmas Tree Focaccia can enhance its festive charm. Here are some ideas to make it shine at your holiday gatherings!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of fresh basil right before serving adds a pop of color and a hint of aromatic flavor.
• Balsamic glaze: Drizzle a small amount of balsamic glaze over the top for a touch of sweetness that complements the savory toppings beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Herbed salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a simple vinaigrette pairs perfectly with focaccia, adding freshness to your meal.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes provide warmth and richness, making them an ideal accompaniment.
• Chickpea salad: A refreshing chickpea salad tossed with lemon juice, cucumber, and parsley offers protein and crunch while balancing the softness of focaccia.
• Vegetable soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup can be a comforting side that complements the bread nicely while adding heartiness to your table.

Now you’re all set to enjoy this festive treat! Your Christmas Tree Focaccia will not only impress but also fill hearts (and stomachs) with warmth this holiday season. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Christmas Tree Focaccia is not only stunning but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more quality moments with your loved ones during the festive season.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If you prefer a softer texture, wrap it in plastic wrap before placing it in the container.

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the focaccia to cool completely.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat the focaccia in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for about 20-30 seconds, but this may result in a softer crust.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Christmas Tree Focaccia:

Can I use different toppings on my Christmas Tree Focaccia?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. You can use vegetables like bell peppers, olives, or even nuts to make your tree unique.

How do I make my Christmas Tree Focaccia extra festive?

To enhance the festive feel, consider using colorful vegetables like roasted red peppers or seasonal herbs alongside the rosemary. The more vibrant your toppings, the more eye-catching your focaccia will be!

Can I prepare the dough for Christmas Tree Focaccia ahead of time?

Yes! The dough can be prepared and allowed to rise overnight. Just follow the instructions and let it sit covered on your counter until you’re ready to shape and bake.

What is the best way to serve Christmas Tree Focaccia?

This focaccia makes a wonderful centerpiece for any holiday table. Slice it into pieces and serve warm with dips like hummus or olive oil for a delightful appetizer!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Christmas Tree Focaccia as much as I do! It’s a beautiful addition to your holiday gatherings that not only tastes delightful but also brings smiles all around. Try out this recipe and let your creativity shine—it’s all about having fun in the kitchen! Happy baking!