Name: Focaccia Bread With Everything Bagel Seasoning From Trader Joes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 4 cups flour ((bread or all-purpose)); 1 tsp dry yeast; 2 cups warm water ((about 100 degrees Fahrenheit)); 2 tsp coarse sea salt; 3.5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil ((divided)); 1 tbsp Everything Bagel Seasoning; as desired Additional olive oil

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There’s something incredibly satisfying about freshly baked Focaccia Bread, especially when it’s topped with that irresistible Everything Bagel Seasoning from Trader Joe’s. This recipe is not just about the bread; it’s about creating an experience. The texture is soft and pillowy on the inside while the outside is perfectly crisp. The addition of Everything Bagel Seasoning elevates this simple bread into something extraordinary, making it the perfect side for soups, a base for sandwiches, or even a delightful snack on its own. Let’s dive into this simple yet impressive recipe that will have your friends and family asking for seconds.

Why It Works Every Time

Focaccia is one of those magical breads that seems to yield perfect results every time, and here’s why. The combination of warm water and dry yeast creates a bubbly, airy dough that rises beautifully. The generous use of olive oil not only adds flavor but also contributes to that signature crispy crust. Additionally, the Everything Bagel Seasoning brings a delightful crunch and an explosion of flavor that pairs perfectly with the soft, chewy texture of the bread. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a show-stopping bread that looks as good as it tastes.

What You’ll Need

4 cups flour (bread or all-purpose)
1 tsp dry yeast
2 cups warm water (about 100 degrees Fahrenheit)
2 tsp coarse sea salt
3.5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (divided)
1 tbsp Everything Bagel Seasoning
Additional olive oil, as desired

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Mixing Bowl: For combining your ingredients.
9×13-inch Baking Pan: Ideal for creating a thick, fluffy focaccia.
Plastic Wrap or Towel: To cover the dough while it rises.
Wooden Spoon or Dough Scraper: For mixing and shaping the dough.

Make Focaccia Bread With Everything Bagel Seasoning From Trader Joes: A Simple Method

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and dry yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic in your dough.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

Once the yeast is activated, add the flour and sea salt to the bowl. Mix with a wooden spoon or dough scraper until a shaggy dough forms. Don’t worry about getting it perfectly smooth at this stage; it will come together as it rises.

Step 3: Add Olive Oil

Drizzle in 3 tablespoons of olive oil into the dough, then use your hands to knead it gently in the bowl until well incorporated. The dough will be sticky, which is perfectly fine.

Step 4: First Rise

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm area for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This is the time for the gluten to develop, ensuring a light and airy focaccia.

Step 5: Prepare the Baking Pan

Once the dough has risen, generously grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with the remaining olive oil. This will help achieve that crispy crust we all love.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Gently turn the risen dough out onto the prepared pan. With oiled fingers, spread the dough out to fit the pan, creating dimples with your fingertips. This allows for pockets of air and makes for a visually appealing bread.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the pan again with plastic wrap or a towel and let it rest for another 30-45 minutes. This second rise will give the focaccia its characteristic fluffiness.

Step 8: Preheat the Oven

While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. A hot oven is essential for achieving that perfect crust.

Step 9: Season the Dough

After the second rise, drizzle a little extra olive oil on top of the dough and sprinkle the Everything Bagel Seasoning evenly over the surface. Feel free to add as much or as little as you like, depending on your taste.

Step 10: Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped. Your kitchen will smell heavenly during this time!

Step 11: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy every flavorful bite.

Allergy-Friendly Swaps

Gluten-Free: Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Yeast-Free: Use baking powder in the same amount, though the texture will differ.
Low-Sodium: Reduce the sea salt by half or omit if desired.

Cook’s Commentary

This Focaccia Bread with Everything Bagel Seasoning from Trader Joes is not just a recipe; it’s a canvas for creativity. Feel free to experiment with different toppings like rosemary, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives for a Mediterranean twist. You can also serve it with a side of balsamic vinegar for dipping or slather it with your favorite spreads. The possibilities are endless, and every variation is a delightful treat!

Prep Ahead & Store

This focaccia is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the dough in advance. After the first rise, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours. Just allow it to come to room temperature before shaping. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven for a few minutes until heated through.

Ask the Chef

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but keep in mind that the texture may be denser. You may need to adjust the water content as whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid.

What can I serve with this focaccia?

This focaccia pairs beautifully with soups, salads, or even as a base for sandwiches. It’s also great with hummus or olive oil for dipping.

How do I know when my focaccia is done baking?

Your focaccia is ready when it’s golden brown on top and sounds hollow when you tap the bottom. Trust your senses; the smell will also be a good indicator!

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is already vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products. Enjoy it guilt-free!

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Hungry for More?

There’s no denying the allure of homemade bread, and this Focaccia Bread With Everything Bagel Seasoning From Trader Joes is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. With its soft texture, delightful flavor, and endless possibilities for customization, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and time again. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it solo, this focaccia is sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and start baking—your taste buds will thank you!