Christmas Tree Focaccia

If you’re looking for a fun and festive way to celebrate the holiday season, look no further than this delightful Christmas Tree Focaccia! This recipe has become a cherished tradition in my home, as it brings joy not just to the taste buds but also to the eyes. The playful shape of a Christmas tree makes it perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners when you want to add a sprinkle of festive cheer. Plus, it’s so easy to make that even the little ones can help decorate!

This focaccia is not only beautiful but also incredibly delicious. The combination of fresh ingredients and warm bread creates a comforting dish that everyone will enjoy. So gather your loved ones and let’s get baking this Christmas Tree Focaccia together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this focaccia is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Get the kids involved in decorating their own edible Christmas tree; it’s a fantastic way to create memories!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the dough the night before, and bake it fresh whenever you’re ready for a tasty treat.
• Delicious Flavor: A blend of fresh toppings on soft, flavorful bread makes this focaccia an instant crowd-pleaser.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or just a cozy dinner at home, this Christmas Tree Focaccia fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to whip up our Christmas Tree Focaccia! These are all things you might already have in your pantry or fridge.

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 Decorations

• 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 adjust the flavor profile to suit your family’s tastes. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Other Vegetables: Try using bell peppers or olives for extra color and flavor!
• Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle some vegan cheese on top before baking for an extra layer of richness.
• Herb Swaps: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil instead of rosemary for a unique twist.
• Sweet Treats: Drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the top after baking for an added touch of sweetness.

How to Make Christmas Tree Focaccia

Step 1: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Whisk until everything is well mixed. Then add in the warm water. Using a wooden spoon, stir until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass. Cover it with plastic wrap and a clean kitchen towel, allowing it to sit on your counter overnight—this rest period is crucial for developing flavor!

Step 2: Shape Your Dough

The next day, grab a casserole dish (about 7×12 inches works great) and drizzle some olive oil on the bottom. Uncover your dough—it should be risen and bubbly by now! Carefully tip it out into your prepared dish. Gently spread it out with your hands until it fits snugly in the dish. Dimple it with your fingers and drizzle more olive oil over the top. Let this sit covered lightly for two more hours while we preheat our oven.

Step 3: Preheat & Decorate

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Now comes the fun part—decorating our tree! Use rosemary sprigs as branches fanned out across your dough. Cut slices of pear for the base and use halved cherry tomatoes and pearl onions as ornaments. Be creative! It’s all about making your focaccia visually stunning.

Step 4: Bake & Enjoy

Once you’ve decorated your masterpiece, sprinkle with coarse salt and pop it in the oven for about 25 minutes. You want it golden brown and puffed up beautifully. Once baked, let it rest for just a few minutes before slicing into it.

And there you have it! Your very own Christmas Tree Focaccia that not only looks amazing but tastes divine too! Enjoy every bite with friends and family during this special time of year.

Pro Tips for Making Christmas Tree Focaccia

Creating a stunning Christmas Tree Focaccia can be a delightful experience with just a few handy tips!

• Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh bread flour and good olive oil will elevate the flavor of your focaccia. The quality of these ingredients makes a noticeable difference in the final product and enhances the overall taste.

• Let it rise properly: Allowing the dough to rest overnight gives it time to develop flavor and texture. A well-risen dough results in a lighter, airier focaccia that’s simply irresistible.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables or herbs! This not only personalizes your focaccia but also showcases seasonal produce, making your dish even more festive.

• Be generous with olive oil: Drizzling plenty of olive oil before baking helps achieve that beautiful golden crust while adding rich flavor. It also prevents the dough from sticking and ensures a lovely, crispy texture.

• Don’t skip the resting period: After shaping and decorating, letting the focaccia rest allows it to puff up even more in the oven. This step can make all the difference in achieving that perfect fluffy texture.

How to Serve Christmas Tree Focaccia

When it comes to serving your Christmas Tree Focaccia, presentation is key! This charming bread will surely be the centerpiece of your holiday table, so let’s make it shine.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or basil right before serving adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that complements the focaccia beautifully.
• Sea salt flakes: A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt right after baking enhances the taste without overpowering it, giving each bite an extra layer of deliciousness.

Side Dishes

• Mixed greens salad: A simple salad made with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the focaccia.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers add warmth and earthy flavors that pair wonderfully with this festive bread.
• Hummus platter: Pairing your focaccia with a variety of hummus flavors (like roasted red pepper or garlic) provides an excellent dipping option, making it perfect for sharing.
• Olive tapenade: A flavorful olive tapenade served alongside adds depth and complexity that enhances every bite of your focaccia.

Now you’re ready to impress your guests with this delightful Christmas Tree Focaccia! Enjoy every moment spent creating this beautiful dish as much as you will savor eating it together. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Christmas Tree Focaccia not only makes a stunning centerpiece for your holiday meal but is also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing you to focus on other festive preparations.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, wrap the focaccia tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a container.

Freezing

• Allow the focaccia to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• For best results, slice the focaccia before freezing so you can take out just the amount you need.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the focaccia directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• You can also microwave individual slices for about 20-30 seconds if you’re short on time.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might pop up while making your Christmas Tree Focaccia!

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of bread flour for Christmas Tree Focaccia?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for bread flour. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

What toppings work best on my Christmas Tree Focaccia?

Feel free to get creative! Besides pears and cherry tomatoes, consider using olives, bell peppers, or even various herbs. The key is to make it festive and fun!

How long does it take to make Christmas Tree Focaccia?

The total time required is about 12-14 hours due to the overnight proofing. However, active prep time is just around 30 minutes!

Can I decorate my Christmas Tree Focaccia differently?

Absolutely! The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Use seasonal veggies or even cheese to create your unique tree design!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this beautiful Christmas Tree Focaccia! It’s not just about delicious food; it’s about bringing people together during the holidays. Have fun decorating your tree with loved ones and enjoy every bite of this special recipe. Happy baking, and may your holiday season be filled with warmth and love!