Gluten-Free Focaccia: A Feast for the Eyes and Taste Buds!
There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked focaccia wafting through your kitchen. This gluten-free version is wonderfully crisp on the outside, soft on the inside, and full of flavor. It’s as fun to make as it is to eat—like edible art! Perfect as a side dish for a holiday meal or a simple way to treat yourself. You can even make it vegan by omitting the cheese or using your favorite vegan alternatives. Let’s get baking!
📝 Ingredients:
For the Dough:
• 1 bag Mama Alana’s Pantry Pizza Dough Mix
• 1 Pizza Crust:
• 1 cup warm water
• 2.5 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for pan and dough)
• 2 Pizza Crusts:
• 2 cups warm water
• 5 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for pan and dough)
Toppings:
• 1-2 garlic cloves, sliced
• 1/8-1/4 cup green olives, sliced
• 6-7 ounces Cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2-1 tsp Italian seasoning blend
• 1-2 tsp Fresh Italian herbs (basil, rosemary, or thyme)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional:
• 1/4-1/3 cup grated Romano cheese
• 1/3-1/2 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced
🍴 Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
• Follow the instructions on Mama Alana’s Pantry Pizza Dough Mix package.
• Mix Italian seasoning into the dough for extra flavor.
2. Prep the Pan:
• Choose your pan size: 8x8, 9x13, or your favorite.
• Spray the pan with olive oil, then line with parchment paper. Spray the parchment paper with olive oil too.
3. Shape the Focaccia:
• Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Let it rest for 5 minutes.
4. Decorate Your Focaccia:
• Use your fingers to press dimples halfway into the dough.
• Drizzle olive oil over the dough.
• Arrange the toppings (garlic, olives, tomatoes, etc.) artistically. Push them in gently, but don’t bury them completely.
• Sprinkle with fresh Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Drizzle a little more olive oil on top.
5. Let it Rest:
• Allow the dough to rise for 10-15 minutes.
6. Bake to Perfection:
• Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F for approximately 20 minutes, checking after 15 minutes.
• The focaccia is ready when the bottom is lightly crispy and golden brown, and the top is bubbly.
7. Cool & Serve:
• Let the focaccia rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
• For extra flair, drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving or keep it simple and enjoy it plain.
This focaccia isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying it solo, every bite is a celebration of gluten-free goodness. Enjoy!
