5 Cinnamon Focaccia Bread Recipes Perfect for the Holidays

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to fill our homes with warmth and comfort than with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cinnamon focaccia? This traditional Italian bread, infused with the sweet and spicy flavors of cinnamon, is sure to become a new holiday tradition.

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Imagine gathering around the table with family and friends, sharing slices of soft, fluffy focaccia topped with cinnamon sugar, or perhaps adorned with fruits, nuts, or chocolate. These festive bread creations are not only delicious but also versatile, offering something for every palate and occasion during the holiday season.

Key Takeaways

• Discover 5 unique cinnamon focaccia recipes perfect for the holidays.
• Learn how to combine traditional Italian focaccia with the warm flavors of cinnamon.
• Explore variations of festive bread recipes, including fruits, nuts, and chocolate.
• Find the perfect holiday bread recipes to share with family and friends.
• Create new holiday traditions with these delicious and easy-to-make bread recipes.

The Magic of Cinnamon Focaccia During the Holiday Season

As the holiday season approaches, the aroma of cinnamon focaccia wafting from the oven becomes a quintessential part of the festive atmosphere. This sweet and savory bread is not just a treat; it’s an experience that combines the warmth of cinnamon with the comforting texture of focaccia, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.

Why Cinnamon and Focaccia Make a Perfect Holiday Pairing

The combination of cinnamon and focaccia is a match made in heaven during the holiday season. The olive oil in traditional focaccia creates a perfect canvas for sweet flavors, while the open, airy structure of the bread allows cinnamon to permeate throughout, creating a delightful sensory experience. Cinnamon’s warming properties make it ideal for cold weather baking, and its distinctive aroma triggers nostalgic holiday memories. Historically, spiced breads have been a significant part of winter celebrations across different cultures, placing cinnamon focaccia within a broader tradition of holiday baking.

Essential Ingredients and Equipment for Holiday Focaccia

To successfully create cinnamon focaccia breads, it’s crucial to have the right ingredients and equipment. Quality ingredients are key to achieving the best flavor outcomes.

Must-Have Spices and Flavorings

Beyond cinnamon, complementary spices like nutmeg, cardamom, and allspice can enhance the holiday flavor profile. Different types of cinnamon, such as Ceylon and Cassia, offer distinct characteristics that can be leveraged to customize the flavor. Various sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, and brown sugar pair well with cinnamon, adding depth to the bread. Extracts and zests can also be used to add complexity to the flavor profile.

Recommended Baking Tools

Essential tools for baking focaccia include baking sheets, pans (specifically rectangular focaccia pans), mixing bowls, and measuring tools. Optional items like stand mixers can simplify the process. The right pan is crucial for achieving the characteristic focaccia texture. For those without specialized equipment, common household items can be used as alternatives.

What Makes Focaccia Special for Holiday Gatherings

Focaccia’s adaptability makes it a favorite for holiday entertaining, allowing for a variety of toppings and fillings that suit different tastes. Its communal, shareable nature aligns perfectly with the spirit of holiday gatherings, where food is often at the center of celebrations.

The Italian tradition of festive bread is rich and diverse, with different regions having their own special holiday breads. For instance, panettone and pandoro are well-known Italian holiday breads that have become staples in many cultures. These breads are often enriched with ingredients like eggs, butter, and dried fruits, making them a sweet treat during the holiday season.

The Italian Tradition of Festive Bread

The concept of special, enriched breads for celebrations is deeply embedded in Italian culinary tradition. Different regions of Italy have their unique holiday bread traditions. For example, panettone is a Milanese bread typically served during Christmas, while pandoro is a Verona specialty. These traditional breads have inspired modern adaptations like cinnamon focaccia, representing a creative fusion of Italian techniques with American holiday flavor preferences.

Adapting Focaccia for Sweet Holiday Variations

Transforming traditionally savory focaccia into sweet holiday treats involves understanding the culinary principles behind this adaptation. The basic focaccia dough serves as an excellent canvas for sweet variations due to its olive oil content and open texture. The dimpling technique traditional to focaccia creates perfect pockets for sweet fillings and toppings, while the bread’s characteristic chew provides an interesting textural contrast to sweet elements.

By balancing sweet and savory elements, these cinnamon focaccia recipes offer a sophisticated and appealing option for adult palates during the holiday season. The versatility of focaccia in terms of serving temperature and pairing options further enhances its appeal for holiday entertaining.

5 Cinnamon Focaccia Bread Recipes Perfect for the Holidays

Cinnamon focaccia is a versatile holiday treat that can be adapted in numerous ways. The five recipes presented here showcase the range of possibilities, from simple to elaborate, ensuring there’s something for every baker’s skill level and time commitment.

Overview of Recipe Variations

The five cinnamon focaccia recipes offer a diverse range of flavors and textures, each with its unique characteristics. The Classic Cinnamon Sugar Focaccia provides a traditional starting point, while the Apple Cinnamon Streusel Focaccia adds a seasonal twist with fresh apples and crumbly streusel topping. For those looking for something more decadent, the Cinnamon Roll Focaccia with Cream Cheese Glaze transforms the classic cinnamon roll into a shareable bread format. The Cranberry Cinnamon Focaccia with Orange Zest incorporates festive cranberries and bright orange zest, making it perfect for holiday gatherings. Lastly, the Chocolate Cinnamon Focaccia with Candied Nuts offers a rich, indulgent option for chocolate lovers.

These recipes vary in complexity and preparation time, allowing bakers to choose based on their experience and the occasion. For instance, the Classic Cinnamon Sugar Focaccia is ideal for a quick, last-minute treat, while the Cinnamon Roll Focaccia with Cream Cheese Glaze requires more time and effort, making it suitable for a special holiday breakfast or brunch.

Make-Ahead Tips for Holiday Planning

To make the most of your holiday baking, it’s essential to plan ahead. Many components of these recipes can be prepared in advance. For example, the dough can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator overnight or frozen for longer storage. Some toppings and fillings, like streusel or cranberry compote, can also be prepared in advance and stored in airtight containers.

When it comes to refreshing the breads before serving, a quick warm-up in the oven can restore their freshly baked aroma and texture. For frozen focaccia, simply thaw at room temperature or thaw and reheat in the oven for a crispy crust and soft interior. By utilizing these make-ahead strategies, you can enjoy stress-free holiday baking and impress your guests with a variety of delicious cinnamon focaccia creations.

1. Classic Cinnamon Sugar Focaccia

Kick off your holiday baking with our Classic Cinnamon Sugar Focaccia, a simple yet impressive recipe perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. This traditional Italian bread gets a sweet twist with a cinnamon sugar topping, making it an ideal treat for the holiday season.

Ingredients List

To make this delicious Classic Cinnamon Sugar Focaccia, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Dough

• 2 cups of bread flour
• 1 teaspoon of active dry yeast
• 1 cup of warm water
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 tablespoon of sugar

For the Cinnamon Topping

• 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons of melted butter
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of salt

The quality of your ingredients can significantly impact the final result. For instance, using high-protein bread flour will help create a tender crumb, while fresh cinnamon will ensure a robust flavor.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Preparing the Dough

Begin by activating the yeast in warm water. Then, mix the dough ingredients until they form a shaggy mass. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment or knead by hand.

First Rise and Shaping

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place until it has doubled in size. Gently transfer the dough to a baking pan, dimple it, and let it rise again until it’s nearly doubled.

Adding the Cinnamon Topping

Mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the topping. Brush the melted butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly. You can add a drizzle of extra melted butter halfway through baking for an extra-caramelized crust.

Baking Tips for Perfect Texture

To achieve a crispy exterior and a tender interior, bake the focaccia in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Using a baking stone can enhance crust development. Monitor the focaccia during baking, as oven temperatures may vary.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Classic Cinnamon Sugar Focaccia warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect with a hot cup of coffee or tea. You can also toast it lightly for a crispy snack. For a festive touch, consider arranging the focaccia on a decorative platter or wrapping it as a gift.

2. Apple Cinnamon Streusel Focaccia

The Apple Cinnamon Streusel Focaccia is an innovative take on classic focaccia, incorporating the flavors of apple and cinnamon into a sweet and savory bread. This recipe elevates the basic cinnamon focaccia with the addition of seasonal apples and a crumbly streusel topping, making it perfect for the autumn-to-winter transition. It captures the essence of both fall apple harvests and winter holiday baking.

Ingredients List

To make the Apple Cinnamon Streusel Focaccia, you will need ingredients for the dough, apple filling, and streusel topping. Each component requires specific ingredients that work together to create a delicious and complex bread.

For the Dough

The dough requires 2 cups of warm water, 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast, 3 tablespoons of sugar, 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. The addition of brown sugar and cinnamon to the dough enhances the overall flavor profile.

For the Apple Filling

The apple filling consists of 2-3 firm apples, peeled and sliced, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg. The apples should be firm varieties that hold their shape during baking.

For the Streusel Topping

The streusel topping is made with 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of cold unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Optional ingredients include chopped nuts or oats for added texture.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Preparing the Apple Cinnamon Streusel Focaccia involves several steps, from making the dough to assembling and proofing the final product.

Preparing the Dough

Start by mixing the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit until frothy, then add flour, salt, olive oil, and cinnamon. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, either by hand or using a stand mixer.

Making the Apple Filling

Peel and slice the apples, then mix with granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook the mixture until the apples are tender and the liquid has thickened. Let it cool before using.

Creating the Streusel

Mix flour, granulated sugar, and cold butter until crumbly. Add cinnamon and optional nuts or oats. The streusel should be crumbly but not too dry.

Assembly and Proofing

Roll out the dough, spread the apple filling, and top with streusel. Let the focaccia proof until doubled in size, then bake until golden brown.

Baking Tips for Perfect Texture

To achieve the perfect texture, monitor the focaccia during baking, adjusting temperature and timing as needed. Ensure the bottom is not soggy and the streusel is properly browned.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Apple Cinnamon Streusel Focaccia warm, perhaps with caramel sauce, vanilla ice cream, or sharp cheddar cheese. It’s perfect for holiday brunches or dessert tables.

3. Cinnamon Roll Focaccia with Cream Cheese Glaze

Introducing a show-stopping holiday breakfast treat, our Cinnamon Roll Focaccia with Cream Cheese Glaze combines the best of both worlds in a deliciously innovative way. This recipe brings together the characteristic open crumb and olive oil flavor of traditional focaccia with the sweet, swirled goodness of cinnamon rolls, all topped with a tangy cream cheese glaze.

Ingredients List

To create this delightful holiday treat, you’ll need several key ingredients, organized into three main components: the dough, the cinnamon filling, and the cream cheese glaze.

For the Dough

The dough requires warm water, active dry yeast, all-purpose flour, salt, olive oil, and a touch of sugar to help activate the yeast. Using high-quality flour and fresh yeast is crucial for achieving the right texture.

For the Cinnamon Filling

The cinnamon filling consists of softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and optionally, chopped nuts or raisins for added texture and flavor. Ensuring the butter is at the right consistency is key to spreading the filling evenly.

For the Cream Cheese Glaze

The cream cheese glaze is made from softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a bit of milk or cream to achieve the desired consistency. The quality of the cream cheese significantly affects the glaze’s smoothness and flavor.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Preparing the Dough

Start by mixing the warm water and yeast, letting it sit until frothy. Then, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and olive oil, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, either by hand or using a stand mixer.

Creating the Cinnamon Swirl

Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread the cinnamon filling evenly, then roll the dough into a tight log. Cut the log in half lengthwise and twist the two halves together, creating the signature swirl.

Shaping and Proofing

Place the twisted dough into a greased bowl, cover, and let it proof until doubled in size. Gently shape the dough into a focaccia form, dimpling the surface to create characteristic focaccia texture.

Making the Cream Cheese Glaze

Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk or cream until the glaze reaches the desired consistency.

Baking Tips for Perfect Texture

Baking the Cinnamon Roll Focaccia requires careful attention to achieve the perfect texture. Ensure the oven is preheated to the correct temperature and bake until the focaccia is golden brown, monitoring closely to prevent over-browning.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Cinnamon Roll Focaccia warm, but not hot, to maintain the optimal consistency of the cream cheese glaze. Consider pairing it with fresh fruit, yogurt, or breakfast meats for a well-rounded holiday breakfast. The beautiful swirl pattern makes it a stunning centerpiece for any holiday gathering.

4. Cranberry Cinnamon Focaccia with Orange Zest

The Cranberry Cinnamon Focaccia with Orange Zest is a delightful holiday bread that combines the warmth of cinnamon with the brightness of orange and the tartness of cranberries. This recipe is perfect for the holiday season, offering a unique flavor profile that’s both festive and sophisticated.

Ingredients List

To make this delicious Cranberry Cinnamon Focaccia, you’ll need several key ingredients, organized into three main components: the dough, the cranberry cinnamon topping, and the orange glaze.

For the Dough

• 2 cups of warm water
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1 tablespoon honey

For the Cranberry Cinnamon Topping

• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon sugar
• 2 tablespoons orange juice
• 1 tablespoon orange zest

For the Orange Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Preparation

Preparing the Dough

Begin by activating the yeast in warm water, then mix in olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour. Gradually add the remaining flour, kneading until smooth. Incorporate orange zest and honey into the dough. Let it rise until doubled in size.

Preparing the Cranberries

If using fresh cranberries, cook them with granulated sugar, cinnamon sugar, and orange juice until they burst and the mixture thickens. If using dried cranberries, soak them in orange juice and sugar mixture to plump them.

Adding the Cinnamon and Orange Elements

After the dough has risen, punch it down and spread the cranberry mixture evenly over the surface. Sprinkle additional cinnamon sugar on top.

Final Shaping and Proofing

Shape the dough into its final form and let it proof until it has risen again. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Baking Tips for Perfect Texture

To achieve the perfect texture, bake the focaccia for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. Monitor the cranberries to prevent burning. If necessary, cover the top with foil to prevent over-browning.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Cranberry Cinnamon Focaccia warm, drizzled with orange glaze. Consider pairing it with orange-infused butter or cranberry sauce for a delightful holiday treat. This bread is perfect for breakfast or as a sophisticated accompaniment to holiday meals.

5. Chocolate Cinnamon Focaccia with Candied Nuts

Indulge in the ultimate holiday treat with our Chocolate Cinnamon Focaccia with Candied Nuts, a dessert bread that redefines the boundaries of traditional focaccia. This recipe combines the warmth of cinnamon, the luxury of chocolate, and the crunch of candied nuts to create a truly decadent holiday indulgence.

Ingredients List

To create this masterpiece, you’ll need ingredients for three main components: the dough, the chocolate cinnamon filling, and the candied nuts. Each element is crucial to achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

For the Dough

The dough requires 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of cocoa powder, 1/4 cup of sugar, and other standard bread ingredients. The addition of cocoa powder gives the focaccia its distinctive chocolate flavor.

For the Chocolate Cinnamon Filling

The filling consists of melted chocolate, cinnamon, and sugar. The quality of the chocolate is paramount, as it directly impacts the overall flavor of the focaccia.

For the Candied Nuts

Nuts (such as walnuts or pecans), sugar, and cinnamon are needed for the candied nuts topping. The process of candying nuts adds a delightful crunch and sweetness to the focaccia.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Preparing the Dough

Begin by mixing the dry ingredients, then incorporate the wet ingredients to form a dough. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, which may take about 10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes using a stand mixer.

Making the Chocolate Cinnamon Mixture

Melt the chocolate and mix it with cinnamon and sugar. The consistency should be smooth and spreadable, perfect for swirling through the dough.

Preparing the Candied Nuts

Toss the nuts with sugar, cinnamon, and a bit of water, then bake them until caramelized. This step requires attention to prevent burning.

Assembly and Proofing

Assemble the focaccia by spreading the chocolate cinnamon mixture over the dough, topping with candied nuts, and then proofing until doubled in size.

Baking Tips for Perfect Texture

Baking with chocolate requires careful monitoring, as it can burn easily. Check the focaccia frequently towards the end of the baking time, and consider using a thermometer to ensure it’s baked through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Chocolate Cinnamon Focaccia warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The warmth enhances the melted chocolate experience, making it a truly indulgent treat.

Pairing Holiday Focaccia with Seasonal Drinks and Meals

Pairing holiday focaccia with seasonal drinks and meals can add a new dimension to your festive celebrations. The key to a successful pairing lies in complementing the flavors of the focaccia with appropriate beverages and dishes.

Hot Beverage Pairings

When it comes to hot beverages, the right pairing can enhance the flavors of your holiday focaccia. For instance, the apple cinnamon streusel focaccia pairs beautifully with spiced chai tea, as the spices in the tea complement the cinnamon and apple flavors in the bread. On the other hand, chocolate cinnamon focaccia is perfectly matched with peppermint hot chocolate, creating a delightful contrast between the richness of chocolate and the freshness of peppermint.

Other classic holiday drinks like mulled cider and hot coffee also pair well with various cinnamon focaccia recipes. For example, a cinnamon sugar focaccia can be enjoyed with a warm cup of coffee, making it an ideal breakfast or snack during the holiday season.

Incorporating Focaccia into Holiday Meals

Incorporating these sweet focaccia variations into your holiday meal planning can add versatility to your celebrations. The cranberry orange focaccia can be served alongside a holiday ham, providing a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory flavors of the ham. Alternatively, cinnamon roll focaccia can be a delightful addition to a Christmas morning breakfast buffet, offering a sweet and indulgent treat for your guests.

These focaccia recipes can also serve as bridges between courses or as elements in holiday gift baskets. Their versatility allows them to be enjoyed in various contexts, from breakfast to dessert, enhancing your holiday entertaining with minimal effort.

Tips for Storing and Reheating Holiday Focaccia

To enjoy your holiday focaccia beyond the day it’s baked, proper storage and reheating techniques are essential. Whether you’ve made a classic cinnamon sugar focaccia or a more elaborate variation like cranberry cinnamon with orange zest, understanding how to maintain its freshness is key to enjoying it throughout the holiday season.

Proper Storage Methods

Effective storage begins with cooling your focaccia completely on a wire rack. This prevents moisture from becoming trapped, which can lead to sogginess. For short-term storage (up to 2 days), wrap the cooled focaccia in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature. For variations with perishable components like cream cheese glaze, refrigeration is recommended.

• For longer storage, consider freezing. Wrap the focaccia tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• When storing, protect toppings and glazes by placing the focaccia in a single layer in an airtight container.
• Different ingredients affect storage life; for example, focaccia with fresh fruit should be consumed sooner than those without.

Reheating for Maximum Freshness

Reheating focaccia correctly can restore its freshly baked quality. For oven reheating, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the focaccia in foil to prevent over-browning and heat for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

1. For a crisper crust, remove the foil for the last 2-3 minutes.
2. Toaster oven reheating is ideal for smaller portions; use a similar temperature and timing, adjusting as needed.
3. Microwave reheating is quick but can result in a softer texture; use short bursts (20-30 seconds) and check frequently.

After reheating, consider adding fresh elements like a drizzle of glaze or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar to enhance the focaccia’s appeal.

Conclusion

As the holiday season approaches, the art of baking becomes a central part of many family traditions. The five cinnamon focaccia recipes explored in this article offer a delightful way to enhance your holiday baking traditions, bringing the warmth and comfort of cinnamon bread recipes to your gatherings.

These festive focaccia variations are not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to choose the perfect recipe to suit your taste and the occasion. Whether you’re looking for a classic cinnamon sugar focaccia or something more adventurous like chocolate cinnamon focaccia with candied nuts, these recipes are sure to impress.

By incorporating these cinnamon focaccia creations into your holiday celebrations, you’ll not only be continuing a tradition of sharing homemade bread but also creating new memories with your loved ones. So, don’t be afraid to experiment with these recipes, making them your own by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the flavors to suit your family’s preferences.