The fragrant scent of baked goods wafting through the air makes any morning feel special. This is especially true when we’re talking about the scrumptious delight of Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia. A fun twist on traditional focaccia, this fluffy bread brings together the light, airy texture we adore with the sweet charm of your favorite jam-filled donut. The best part? This recipe is easy to whip up and perfect for serving at brunch, making it an instant crowd-pleaser that even the busiest home chefs will appreciate. Whether savoring it fresh out of the oven or storing it for later, your taste buds are in for a treat. Are you ready to indulge in a breakfast experience that feels like a warm hug? Let’s dive right into making this unforgettable sweet bread!
Why is this focaccia so special?
Irresistible aroma: When baking, your kitchen will be filled with mouthwatering scents, making it impossible to resist.
Unique twist: Combining soft focaccia with sweet jam transforms a classic Italian bread into a delightful breakfast experience.
Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for home chefs of all skill levels.
Versatile flavors: Feel free to switch the raspberry preserves for your favorite fruit jam, creating endless variations to suit every palate!
Perfect for brunch: Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, this focaccia pairs beautifully with coffee or tea, making it the ideal centerpiece for your next gathering.
Make-ahead option: Plan ahead by preparing this sweet treat for busy mornings or special occasions; it freezes well too! If you love comforting homemade treats as much as I do, try pairing it with our delicious Vegetable Egg Rolls for a well-rounded brunch!
Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia Ingredients
Discover everything you need to create this delightful treat!
For the Dough
- Warm Water (105-115°F) – Activates yeast for a fluffy texture; ensure proper temperature to avoid killing it.
- Sugar – Feeds the yeast for rising; any granulated sugar works well here.
- Active Dry Yeast – Provides the essential leavening; check the expiration date for freshness.
- Bread Flour – Adds strength and chew; can be swapped with all-purpose for a softer result.
- All-Purpose Flour – Balances texture and structure in the dough.
- Salt – Enhances flavor while controlling yeast activity; don’t skip this step!
- Olive Oil – Brings moisture and richness; use it for both the dough and greasing.
For the Filling and Glaze
- Raspberry Preserves – Adds sweetness and jammy pockets; Bonne Maman is a top choice.
- Confectioners’ Sugar – Sweetens the glaze and gives a nice finish; essential for presentation.
- Whole Milk – Adjusts glaze consistency; can be substituted with water or plant-based milk for a lighter option.
Feel the excitement as you gather these ingredients for your Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia, a sweet journey awaits!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a stand mixer, combine 1 cup of warm water (between 105-115°F) and 2 tablespoons of sugar, stirring gently until dissolved. Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast, allowing the mixture to rest for about 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it becomes foamy and bubbly, indicating that the yeast is activated and ready to work its magic in your Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
Add 2 cups each of bread flour and all-purpose flour along with 1 teaspoon of salt to the yeast mixture in the stand mixer. Using the dough hook attachment, mix on medium speed until a sticky dough forms, roughly 3–4 minutes. The dough should be soft and slightly tacky, but not overly wet; this will ensure your focaccia has a lovely, fluffy texture once baked.
Step 3: First Rise
Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel. Place it in a warm, draft-free spot to rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour. As it rises, the dough should swell noticeably, filling the bowl with its puffy promise of deliciousness and setting the stage for your Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia.
Step 4: Shape and Second Rise
After the first rise, gently deflate the dough and transfer it to a greased baking pan, folding it over itself a few times before spreading it out to fit the pan. Cover it again with the towel and let it rise for an additional hour. By the end of this second rise, the dough should be puffy and filled with air, ready to absorb the flavors of the jam.
Step 5: Preheat and Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 425°F, ensuring it’s fully heated before placing your homemade creation inside. Once preheated, make deep dimples in the risen dough using your fingertips, creating small pockets that will hold the raspberry preserves. Spread a thin layer of preserves over the surface, letting a touch of sweetness seep into the dough and create that delightful jammy goodness.
Step 6: Bake the Focaccia
Bake the dough in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until it turns a beautiful golden brown. Keep an eye on it; the focaccia should feel light and springy to the touch. As it bakes, your kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma that makes the wait so worthwhile!
Step 7: Finish and Glaze
Upon removing the focaccia from the oven, fill the dimples with additional raspberry preserves while it’s still warm. Allow the focaccia to cool slightly on a wire rack, then prepare the glaze by mixing 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar with enough whole milk to create a drizzle-consistency. Once cooled, drizzle the glaze over your Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia, adding a sweet finishing touch that elevates this brunch delight!
What to Serve with Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia
Imagine gathering with loved ones around a table laden with warmth and comfort, where each bite of your focaccia delights the senses.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet, rich focaccia, enhancing your brunch’s overall brightness.
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Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy eggs provide a savory balance to the sweetness of the focaccia, creating a harmonious breakfast that’s both hearty and satisfying.
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Crispy Bacon: The smoky, salty crunch of bacon beautifully complements the light sweetness of the jam-filled focaccia, making each bite a perfect combo.
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Homemade Whipped Cream: Fluffy, lightly sweetened whipped cream offers a decadent touch that enhances the good vibes and adds a creamy texture when spread on warm slices.
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Iced Coffee or Tea: A chilled beverage creates a refreshing balance, making it the perfect pairing for relaxing brunch conversations while sipping and savoring every bite.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup over the focaccia introduces a nice layer of sweetness that will make your guests swoon, enhancing the breakfast joy.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer creamy yogurt with granola and fruit for a refreshing counterpoint, adding texture while complementing your focaccia’s delightful flavors.
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Smoothie Bowl: A berry smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds provides a burst of energy and colorful presentation, making breakfast a feast for the eyes and palate.
How to Store and Freeze Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia
Room Temperature: Store your focaccia covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. Make sure it’s in an airtight container to maintain softness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze pieces of focaccia (without glaze) in a tightly sealed container for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy a warm slice, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This keeps the texture delightful and soft, reminiscent of when it was freshly baked!
Make-Ahead Tip: Since this Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia is great for brunch, consider baking it ahead of time and freezing portions for a convenient, sweet treat on busy mornings.
Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your focaccia experience with these fun twists!
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Flavor Swap: Substitute raspberry preserves with strawberry, blueberry, or apricot for different fruity flavors.
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Spice It Up: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dough for a warm, spiced twist. This subtle hint will elevate your bread to new heights; it’s like a cozy hug in every bite!
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Vegan Alternative: Use plant-based milk and swap olive oil with melted coconut oil to enjoy this delicious focaccia in a vegan-friendly way. Your sweet treat won’t lose any of its delightful charm.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, into the dough for a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that dances alongside the sweetness of the jam.
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Glaze Variation: Mix in citrus zest (like lemon or orange) with the confectioners’ sugar glaze for a refreshing zing that complements the jam beautifully. It creates a lovely balance!
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Extra Jam: For those who truly love jam, fill the dimples not just with raspberry preserves but also use cream cheese or mascarpone as a spread underneath for added creaminess. The rich texture pairs wonderfully with the sweet jam!
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Savory Twist: For a unique take, omit the sugar in the dough and replace raspberry preserves with caramelized onions and cheese for a scrumptious savory focaccia option. Perfect for brunches or as a side with a salad!
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Mini Focaccia: Want to serve bite-sized pieces? Divide the dough into small portions and create mini focaccia bites. They are perfect for sharing and look adorable on any brunch table!
If you’re feeling inspired, why not try this homemade treat alongside our easy-to-make Baked Maple Donut for a delightful breakfast spread? Enjoy every moment in your kitchen, and happy baking!
Expert Tips for Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia
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Temperature Check: Ensure your water temperature is between 105-115°F for optimal yeast activation; too hot can kill the yeast, and too cold won’t activate it.
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Don’t Rush the Rise: Allow the dough to fully double in size during both rising stages. Patience is key to getting that airy texture in your focaccia.
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Avoid Jam Overload: When spreading the raspberry preserves, stick to a thin layer. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy and maintains the perfect balance of sweetness.
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Create Deep Dimples: Use your fingertips to make deep dimples in the dough before adding jam. Shallow dimples can vanish during baking, losing that signature focaccia look.
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Try Flavor Variations: Experiment by swapping raspberry preserves for other favorite jams or even adding cinnamon to the dough for a unique twist—your Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia can be your canvas!
Make Ahead Options
These Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh-baked goodness with ease! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing it as instructed and letting it rise before placing it in the pan. Cover the dough tightly and refrigerate it overnight; this slow rise enhances the flavor. When you’re ready to bake, simply allow it to come to room temperature and rise a bit more before proceeding with the dimpling and jam filling. For longer storage, freeze baked focaccia without glaze for up to 1 month—reheat before serving for that fresh taste. You’ll have a delightful treat, just as delicious as the day it was made!
Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia Recipe FAQs
How should I select ripe ingredients for the focaccia?
Absolutely! For the best results, ensure your raspberry preserves are fresh and flavorful. If you’re opting for fresh fruits in variations, select ones that are ripe but not overly soft or bruised, as they will contribute sweet and vibrant flavors to the focaccia without making it soggy.
What’s the best way to store leftover focaccia?
Very! Store your Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. Make sure it’s in an airtight container to retain its softness. If you want to enjoy it later, proceed to freeze it!
How do I freeze focaccia properly?
Certainly! To freeze, let the focaccia cool completely first. Cut it into slices or pieces, then place them in a tightly sealed container or resealable freezer bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it at room temperature before reheating.
What can I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Sometimes, yeast can be finicky! If your dough isn’t rising, it’s likely due to the water temperature being too hot or cold, or the yeast may be expired. To troubleshoot, check your yeast’s expiration date and use a thermometer to ensure your water is between 105-115°F. If needed, try a fresh batch of yeast and allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free spot to encourage puffiness.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
For sure! If you have allergies, be cautious with substitutes. The dough contains gluten due to the flour, so those with gluten sensitivities should opt for gluten-free flour alternatives. Additionally, you can substitute the whole milk in the glaze with plant-based milk for a dairy-free option. Always check the labels of your raspberry preserves to avoid allergens!
How long can I keep this focaccia in the freezer?
Great question! Your Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia can be frozen for up to 1 month. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container, and when you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw at room temperature for about an hour or so!
Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a stand mixer, combine warm water and sugar, stirring until dissolved. Sprinkle in active dry yeast and let it rest for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add bread flour, all-purpose flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix on medium speed until a sticky dough forms (3-4 minutes).
- Transfer dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled (about 1 hour).
- Deflate the dough and transfer to a greased baking pan. Cover and let it rise for another hour.
- Preheat oven to 425°F. Make dimples in the risen dough, spread raspberry preserves over the surface.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes or until golden brown and springy to the touch.
- Fill dimples with more raspberry preserves, cool slightly on a wire rack, and prepare glaze by mixing confectioners' sugar with enough milk for a drizzle consistency. Drizzle glaze over the focaccia.
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