Christmas Tree Focaccia

If you’re looking for a festive treat that brings joy to any gathering, look no further than this delightful Christmas Tree Focaccia! This recipe is not just about yummy bread; it’s a fun and creative way to get everyone involved in the kitchen. The fluffy dough adorned with colorful toppings makes for a stunning centerpiece at holiday dinners or cozy family nights. Plus, it’s easy enough to whip up even on busy weeknights!

What makes this Christmas Tree Focaccia so special is its versatility and the smiles it brings as you decorate it together with loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply want to add some cheer to dinner, this recipe will surely become a cherished tradition in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a beautiful focaccia that looks like a work of art!
• Family-Friendly Fun: Everyone can join in on the decorating—kids love making their own unique trees!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the dough the night before and bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.
• Flavorful and Wholesome: Made with fresh ingredients, this focaccia is both delicious and satisfying.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Christmas or just a cozy family dinner, this focaccia fits right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Christmas Tree Focaccia uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need:

For the Dough

• 3 cups bread flour
• 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 1/4 tsp coarse salt
• 1 2/3rd cup warm water

For the Toppings

• Pear
• Pearl onions
• Cherry tomatoes
• Thinly sliced red onion
• Fresh rosemary sprigs
• Coarse salt
• Plenty of olive oil (a few Tbs.)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your toppings or even change up the flavors. Here are some ideas:

• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in sliced bell peppers or olives for added color and flavor.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil alongside rosemary for a unique twist.
• Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle some dairy-free cheese on top before baking for an extra layer of yum.
• Seasonal Fruits: Swap out the pear for sliced apples or figs for a delicious alternative.

How to Make Christmas Tree Focaccia

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Whisk until combined, then add the warm water. Using a wooden spoon, stir the dough together until it’s shaggy and wet. Cover it with plastic wrap and a clean kitchen towel, letting it sit on the counter overnight (at least 12 hours). This long resting time develops flavor and creates that lovely airy texture we all adore!

Step 2: Shape the Dough

The next day, grab a casserole dish (about 7×12 inches) and drizzle a good amount of olive oil on the bottom. Uncover your dough—it should be risen, bubbly, and beautiful! Tip it out into the casserole dish. Use your hands to spread it snugly into shape and dimple it with your fingers. Drizzle more olive oil over the surface and let it rest again for two hours—this helps create those perfect air pockets.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

While your dough rests, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. A hot oven will give your focaccia that lovely golden crust we all love.

Step 4: Decorate Your Focaccia

Now comes the fun part! Use rosemary sprigs as tree branches by fanning them out across your dough. Slice up some pear for a base of your tree, then cut cherry tomatoes in half for “ornaments.” Pearl onions can also be halved for extra decoration! Don’t forget to let your creativity shine—maybe even add more pear slices as decorations or create a little star on top.

Step 5: Bake Your Masterpiece

Once decorated, sprinkle a bit of coarse salt over everything and pop it into the oven. Bake for about 25 minutes until puffed and golden brown—the smell will be heavenly!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Let your beautiful Christmas Tree Focaccia rest for a few minutes before slicing into it. Gather around with family or friends as you enjoy this stunning creation together!

With its gorgeous presentation and delightful flavor, this Christmas Tree Focaccia is sure to be enjoyed by all! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Christmas Tree Focaccia

Creating a stunning Christmas Tree Focaccia is easier than you might think! Here are some tips to ensure your holiday bread is both beautiful and delicious.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh rosemary and ripe cherry tomatoes not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant colors, making your focaccia visually appealing.

• Don’t rush the rising time: Allowing the dough to rest overnight gives it the perfect texture and flavor. The longer rise helps develop those lovely air bubbles, resulting in a light and airy bread.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to get creative with your decorations! Try adding sliced bell peppers, olives, or even some nuts for added crunch and color.

• Dimple generously: When dimpling the dough before baking, don’t be shy! These little indentations hold onto oil and toppings, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.

• Let it cool slightly before slicing: Allowing the focaccia to cool for a few minutes after baking makes it easier to slice without losing its shape. Plus, it helps the flavors settle!

How to Serve Christmas Tree Focaccia

Presenting your Christmas Tree Focaccia can be just as fun as making it! Here are some creative ideas for showcasing this festive dish at your holiday gathering.

Garnishes

• Extra virgin olive oil drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil right before serving adds an extra layer of richness.
• Flaky sea salt: Sprinkling a touch of flaky sea salt on top enhances the flavors and gives a beautiful finishing touch.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich focaccia.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or butternut squash add warmth and complement the bread beautifully.
• Hummus Platter: Serve with a variety of hummus flavors alongside pita chips or fresh veggies. This creates a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.
• Cheesy Cauliflower Bake: A creamy cauliflower bake offers comfort food vibes that pair wonderfully with the herby focaccia.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Christmas Tree Focaccia will be the star of any holiday table! Enjoy creating delicious memories this festive season.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Christmas Tree Focaccia is not only a feast for the eyes but also a fantastic meal prep option! You can enjoy it fresh or save some for later, making it perfect for any holiday gathering or casual dinner.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the focaccia to cool completely.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Slice the focaccia into portions for easy use later.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the focaccia on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
• Bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy that freshly baked aroma!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about our delightful Christmas Tree Focaccia.

Can I make Christmas Tree Focaccia ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and let it rise overnight. Just follow the instructions, decorate when ready, and bake!

What toppings work best for Christmas Tree Focaccia?

While we suggest using pears, cherry tomatoes, and pearl onions, feel free to get creative! Any colorful veggies or herbs can make your Christmas Tree Focaccia festive and fun.

How do I store leftover Christmas Tree Focaccia?

To keep your focaccia fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to three days!

Can I freeze my Christmas Tree Focaccia?

Yes! Slice your focaccia before freezing to make reheating easier. Store wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this beautiful Christmas Tree Focaccia! It’s more than just food; it’s a way to bring warmth and cheer into your home during the festive season. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet moment with a slice, this recipe is sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking, and may your holidays be filled with love and laughter!