"Ultimate Cast Iron Focaccia Bread Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Perfectly Crispy and Fluffy Bread"

#### Introduction to Cast Iron Focaccia Bread RecipeThe **cast iron focaccia bread recipe** is a delightful way to create a crispy, golden crust with a soft……

#### Introduction to Cast Iron Focaccia Bread Recipe

The **cast iron focaccia bread recipe** is a delightful way to create a crispy, golden crust with a soft, airy interior. This traditional Italian bread is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it with various toppings and flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you through the process of making the perfect focaccia using a cast iron skillet.

#### Ingredients for Cast Iron Focaccia Bread

To get started with your **cast iron focaccia bread recipe**, you will need the following ingredients:

- 4 cups all-purpose flour

- 2 teaspoons salt

- 1 teaspoon sugar

- 2 teaspoons instant yeast

- 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F)

- ¼ cup olive oil (plus more for drizzling)

- Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) for topping

- Coarse sea salt for sprinkling

#### Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Mix the Dough**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast. Stir to combine. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, mixing until a sticky dough forms.

2. **Knead the Dough**: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If you have a stand mixer, you can use the dough hook attachment for this step.

3. **First Rise**: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

4. **Prepare the Cast Iron Skillet**: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Generously grease a cast iron skillet with olive oil to prevent sticking.

5. **Shape the Dough**: Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to the prepared skillet and stretch it out to fit the pan. If the dough resists stretching, let it rest for a few minutes before continuing.

6. **Second Rise**: Cover the skillet with a towel and let the dough rise again for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that fluffy texture.

7. **Prepare for Baking**: After the second rise, use your fingers to create dimples all over the surface of the dough. Drizzle olive oil generously over the top and sprinkle with coarse sea salt and fresh herbs.

8. **Bake the Focaccia**: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

9. **Cool and Serve**: Once baked, remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool in the skillet for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

#### Tips for the Perfect Cast Iron Focaccia

- **Experiment with Toppings**: Feel free to get creative with your toppings! You can add sliced olives, cherry tomatoes, or even cheese before baking.

- **Use Fresh Herbs**: Fresh herbs not only enhance the flavor but also add a beautiful aroma to your bread. Rosemary is a classic choice for focaccia.

- **Storage**: Store any leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

#### Conclusion

This **cast iron focaccia bread recipe** is a fantastic addition to your baking repertoire. With its crispy edges and soft, chewy center, it’s perfect for serving alongside soups, salads, or as a base for sandwiches. Enjoy the process of making this delicious bread, and don’t hesitate to share it with family and friends. Happy baking!