. Simple Jam Donut Focaccia – esrecipes

Simple Jam Donut Focaccia

by

I remember my Nonna Elsie. Every Sunday, her kitchen smelled like sunshine and yeast. She wasn’t a fancy baker. Her treats were all about comfort, warmth, and a big, generous helping of love. One Sunday, she combined her focaccia know-how with her granddaughter’s obse

ssion with donuts. The result? A surprisingly delicious, slightly rustic, totally unforgettable creation. That’s how Simple Jam Donut Focaccia was born! It’s a happy marriage of Italian flatbread and the beloved donut, and I’m so excited to share this recipe with you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let’s be honest, donuts are amazing, but they can be tricky to make. Forget fussy techniques and complicated frosting. This recipe delivers that donut-like sweetness and texture without all the hassle. Here’s why you’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again:

  • Surprisingly Easy: It uses a basic focaccia dough, which is simpler than many donut recipes.
  • Flavor Explosion: The fluffy focaccia, tangy olive oil, and sweet, gooey jam create a beautiful (and addictive!) contrast.
  • Customizable: Swap out the jam, add different toppings, or even incorporate spices into the dough. The possibilities are endless!
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: From a lazy weekend brunch to a fun party appetizer, these are always a hit.
  • Impressive but Approachable: It looks fancy, but is incredibly easy to achieve.

The Ingredient List

Here’s what you’ll need to create your own batch of Simple Jam Donut Focaccia. Don’t be intimidated – most of these are pantry staples!

For the Focaccia Dough:

  • 3 1/2 cups (420g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
  • 2 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons (9g) salt
  • 1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water (around 105-115°F)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil, plus more for greasing

For the Jam Topping:

  • 1/2 cup (approximately 170g) high-quality jam (raspberry, strawberry, apricot – your choice!)
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) powdered sugar, for dusting
  • Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling (optional but recommended!)

Let’s Get Baking: Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get to the fun part! Here’s a straightforward guide to making your Simple Jam Donut Focaccia.

1. Bloom the Yeast:

  • In a large bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast.
  • Give it a gentle stir. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes foamy. This means the yeast is alive and kicking!

2. Mix the Dough:

  • Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture.
  • Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
  • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
  • Knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
  • Form the dough into a ball.

3. First Rise:

  • Grease a large bowl with olive oil.
  • Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat it with oil.
  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.
  • Let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This is important for a light and airy focaccia.

4. Shape the Focaccia:

  • Generously grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with olive oil.
  • Gently punch down the dough to release the air.
  • Transfer the dough to the prepared pan.
  • Using your fingertips, press the dough out to fill the pan evenly. Don’t worry about it being perfect! Rustic is charming.
  • Let the dough rest for another 15-20 minutes.

5. Dimple and Bake:

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Using your fingertips, create deep dimples all over the surface of the dough. This is a signature focaccia feature!
  • Drizzle generously with olive oil.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

6. The Jam & Finishing Touches:

  • As soon as the focaccia comes out of the oven, generously spread the jam evenly over the top.
  • Dust with powdered sugar.
  • Sprinkle with a pinch of coarse sea salt (trust me on this one – it balances the sweetness perfectly!).
  • Let the focaccia cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Tips, Variations, and Serving Suggestions

Want to take your Simple Jam Donut Focaccia to the next level? Here’s a few ideas!

  • Spice it Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the dough for a warmer flavor profile.
  • Citrus Zest: Stir in the zest of one lemon or orange into the dough for a bright, refreshing twist.
  • Different Jams: Experiment with different flavors! Fig jam, blueberry jam, or even a spicy pepper jam would be delicious.
  • Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted dark chocolate on top of the jam for an extra decadent treat.
  • Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts over the dough before baking for added texture.
  • Serving Suggestions: Enjoy it warm from the oven, with a cup of coffee or tea. It’s also fantastic as a sweet dessert or a unique brunch offering. Cut it into squares for an appetizer.

Optional: Nutritional Information (Approximate per Slice)

(Based on 12 slices – will vary depending on slice size and ingredients)

  • Calories: 350-400
  • Fat: 15-20g
  • Saturated Fat: 3-4g
  • Carbohydrates: 50-60g
  • Sugar: 20-25g
  • Protein: 6-8g

Please note: These are estimates and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Give it a Try!

There you have it – Simple Jam Donut Focaccia! It’s a recipe that’s both comforting and impressive, and a perfect way to bring a little bit of Nonna Elsie’s sunshine into your kitchen. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own. Baking is all about having fun, so roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a truly delicious treat! I can’t wait to hear about your baking adventures – tag me in your photos! Happy baking!

Leave a Comment