There's something incredibly inviting about the scent of freshly baked bread wafting through the house, and it takes only one bite of this Simple Jam Donut Focaccia to transport you to a cozy bakery. Imagine soft, pillowy bread combined with sweet pockets of your favorite jam, creating a delightful fusion of flavors that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. This recipe is an effortless way to treat yourself and your loved ones on a leisurely Sunday morning or whenever you're craving something uniquely delicious.
As I experimented with this delightful concoction, I sought a way to bring the joy of donuts and focaccia together—and oh, did it pay off! Whether you choose raspberry preserves or mix in a twist of cinnamon for added warmth, this jam donut focaccia is bound to impress and satisfy. It’s simple enough for those new to baking while elevating your kitchen game to gourmet without the fuss. Get ready to create a showstopper that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why will you love this Simple Jam Donut Focaccia?
Delicious Fusion: This recipe unites the best of both worlds—soft focaccia and sweet jam-filled donuts—creating a breakfast experience like no other.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip this up effortlessly.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it's a lazy Sunday brunch or a surprise treat for guests, this focaccia is sure to steal the show.
Customize Your Flavors: Experiment with different jams and spices for a unique twist every time. Try strawberry or even chocolate spread for a decadent surprise!
Mouthwatering Aroma: The smell of baking bread filled with sweet jam will have everyone eagerly gathering in the kitchen.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep this the night before, and simply bake it fresh in the morning for a delightful breakfast without the stress.
Simple Jam Donut Focaccia Ingredients
For the Dough
• Warm Water (1 3/4 cups, 105-115°F) – Activates yeast; ensure it's not too hot to avoid killing it.
• Sugar (2 tsp) – Feeds yeast to promote fermentation and adds a hint of sweetness.
• Active Dry Yeast (1 packet) – Essential for that delightful rise; ensure it bubbles to confirm it's alive.
• Bread Flour (2 cups) – Gives the focaccia its necessary structure and chewiness; can substitute with all-purpose flour for a softer feel.
• All-Purpose Flour (2 cups) – Balances the dough's texture, making it light and fluffy.
• Salt (2 tsp) – Enhances flavor and helps control yeast activity for the perfect rise.
• Olive Oil (6 tbsp, divided) – Adds richness and moisture to the dough; a key element for that soft bite.
For the Filling
• Raspberry Preserves (1 jar) – Provides sweet pockets of flavor; feel free to swap for your favorite jam for a personal touch.
For the Glaze
• Confectioners' Sugar (2 cups) – Creates a sweet, shimmering glaze on top for that finishing touch.
• Whole Milk (2-4 tbsp, as needed) – Adjusts the glaze's consistency; a silky smooth spread makes all the difference.
Delight in this Simple Jam Donut Focaccia that will surely brighten your morning!
How to Make Simple Jam Donut Focaccia
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Prepare Yeast Mixture: In a bowl, combine warm water and sugar, then sprinkle in the active dry yeast. Let it sit until it becomes frothy and bubbly—this should take about 5 minutes.
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Mix Dough: In a stand mixer, combine the bread flour, all-purpose flour, and salt with the yeast mixture. Mix on medium speed until the dough forms a sticky but cohesive ball.
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First Rise: Lightly coat a large bowl with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Transfer the dough into the bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for approximately 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
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Prepare Baking Pan: Generously grease a 9x13 metal pan with more olive oil. Once the dough has risen, gently move it to the pan, folding it over a few times, then cover again to let it rise for another hour until it has doubled a second time.
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Preheat Oven & Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Using your fingers, poke deep dimples all over the surface of the dough, then spread the raspberry preserves evenly into these dimples.
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Bake: Place the focaccia in the oven to bake for 18-22 minutes, or until it turns a beautiful golden brown. As soon as it comes out, poke a few extra holes in the bread and add a little more raspberry preserves while it’s still warm.
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Glaze: In a bowl, mix the confectioners' sugar with milk until you reach your desired glaze consistency. Spread this mixture over the top of the focaccia once it's cooled slightly, or you may glaze the bottom for a surprising twist!
Optional: Dust with a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Simple Jam Donut Focaccia Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine with these fun and delicious twists on this delightful recipe!
- Flavor Swaps: Replace raspberry preserves with your favorite jam such as strawberry, apricot, or even blueberry for exciting flavor combinations.
- Spiced Dough: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or cardamom into the dough for a fragrant spice infusion that complements the sweetness perfectly.
- Zesty Twist: Mix in the zest of one lemon or orange to the dough for a bright, citrusy note that elevates the overall taste.
- Nutty Addition: Sprinkle some chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds on top for added crunch and a delightful texture contrast.
- Chocolate Delight: Swap out jam for a layer of chocolate spread for a decadent dessert version that sweet lovers will adore.
- Savory Option: Exchange jam for a savory filling, such as sun-dried tomatoes or feta, to create a unique brunch offering that strays from sweet.
- Gluten-Free Variation: Substitute all-purpose and bread flour with a gluten-free blend to make this recipe friendly for gluten-sensitive guests while still delivering on taste.
- Dairy-Free Glaze: Use almond or coconut milk instead of whole milk to create a dairy-free glaze for an inclusive treat everyone can enjoy.
Let these variations whisk you away to new flavor adventures while keeping the heart of this Simple Jam Donut Focaccia alive!
How to Store and Freeze Simple Jam Donut Focaccia
Room Temperature: Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days; this keeps the bread soft and enjoyable.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled focaccia tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 1 month, without glaze.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen focaccia, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring it's warm and inviting.
Tip: For the best flavor and texture, consume your Simple Jam Donut Focaccia fresh, but these tips ensure you can still relish it later!
Expert Tips for Simple Jam Donut Focaccia
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Check Yeast Freshness: Always ensure your yeast is fresh; expired yeast won't rise and can ruin this delicious focaccia!
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Ideal Water Temperature: Use warm water in the range of 105-115°F; anything hotter could kill the yeast, preventing your dough from rising.
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Deep Dimples: Make deep dimples in your dough before adding preserves. This will hold the sweet filling more effectively without making the bread soggy.
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Layer of Jam: Spread a thin layer of jam to avoid excessive moisture; this will keep your focaccia from becoming too heavy.
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Serving Temperature: Serve your Simple Jam Donut Focaccia warm for the best flavor and texture—it's a true breakfast delight when still fresh from the oven!
Make Ahead Options
These Simple Jam Donut Focaccia are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during breakfast prep. You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing it and allowing it to rise, then refrigerate it instead of letting it rise a second time. When you're ready to bake, simply bring the dough to room temperature, shape it in the pan, and let it rise until doubled—this will take about 1 hour. You can also fill it with raspberry preserves ahead of time; just be sure to poke extra dimples right before baking to maintain quality. With these make-ahead options, enjoying a fresh, warm focaccia has never been easier!
What to Serve with Simple Jam Donut Focaccia?
Elevate your breakfast or brunch with these delightful pairings that complement the sweet, soft goodness of a jam-filled focaccia.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A combination of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, balancing the sweet richness of the focaccia beautifully.
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Scrambled Eggs: Light and fluffy scrambled eggs provide a protein-packed side that perfectly contrasts the soft, sweet bread. Pairing these adds warmth to your table.
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Creamy Yogurt: A velvety yogurt garnished with a drizzle of honey gives a luscious touch that pairs wonderfully with the focaccia's sweetness.
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Herbal Tea: A refreshing herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, offers an aromatic sip that enhances the flavors and makes the meal feel more special.
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Iced Coffee: The boldness of iced coffee cuts through the sweetness, creating a delightful balance that invigorates your morning.
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Chocolate Hazelnut Spread: For a decadent twist, serve a side of chocolate hazelnut spread for those craving a sweeter experience with their focaccia. Each bite will be a heavenly treat!
Simple Jam Donut Focaccia Recipe FAQs
What type of jam should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! While raspberry preserves are delightful, feel free to substitute with other favorite flavors such as strawberry, apricot, or even chocolate spread for a delicious twist. Each jam brings its unique character to the bread!
How do I store leftover Simple Jam Donut Focaccia?
Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps the texture soft and delightful. Just ensure it’s sealed well to prevent it from drying out.
Can I freeze Simple Jam Donut Focaccia?
Yes, you can! Wrap the cooled focaccia tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
What should I do if my dough doesn't rise?
Very often, dough not rising can be attributed to inactive yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh and check the temperature of the water; it should be between 105-115°F. If the yeast mixture doesn’t bubble after 5 minutes, it's best to start over with fresh yeast. Creating a warm environment for the dough to rise, like placing it in a slightly warmed oven, can also help.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
Of course! Substitute the whole milk in the glaze with a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and you can use a dairy-free margarine or oil for the dough. The results will still be wonderfully delicious and suitable for a vegan diet!
Can pets eat Simple Jam Donut Focaccia?
No, it's best to keep this delicious treat away from pets. Ingredients like sugar and certain jams may not be safe for them. Share the love with your humans only!
Sweet and Simple Jam Donut Focaccia That Will Rock Your Morning
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Yeast Mixture: In a bowl, combine warm water and sugar, then sprinkle in the active dry yeast. Let sit until frothy, about 5 minutes.
- Mix Dough: In a stand mixer, combine the bread flour, all-purpose flour, and salt with the yeast mixture. Mix on medium speed until a sticky ball forms.
- First Rise: Coat a bowl with olive oil, transfer dough, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour.
- Prepare Baking Pan: Grease a 9x13 metal pan with olive oil. Transfer risen dough to the pan, fold a few times, cover, and let rise for another hour.
- Preheat Oven & Prepare for Baking: Preheat oven to 425°F. Poke dimples in the dough and spread raspberry preserves evenly.
- Bake: Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown. Add more preserves while warm.
- Glaze: Mix confectioners' sugar with milk to desired glaze consistency and spread on top of focaccia once cooled slightly.
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