Christmas Tree Focaccia

If you’re looking for a festive and fun way to celebrate the holiday season, look no further than this delightful Christmas Tree Focaccia! This recipe is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Picture this: a bubbly, golden loaf of bread shaped like a Christmas tree, adorned with colorful toppings that invite everyone to gather around the table. It’s perfect for family gatherings, casual dinners, or even as a charming centerpiece at your holiday parties.

What makes this Christmas Tree Focaccia truly special is its simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create something that feels both fancy and comforting. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to get creative with your toppings and involve the whole family in the decorating process!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: The dough requires minimal hands-on time, letting you focus on other holiday fun!
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids love helping to decorate the tree with colorful veggies; it’s a guaranteed hit!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the dough overnight, so it’s ready to bake when you are!
• Delicious flavor: The aroma of fresh rosemary and warm bread will fill your home with comfort.
• Beautiful presentation: This focaccia is not only tasty but also makes for an eye-catching dish at any gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients for this festive masterpiece! Each one plays an important role in creating that beautiful texture and flavor we all love in focaccia.

• 3 cups bread flour
• 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 1/4 tsp coarse salt
• 1 2/3rd cup warm water
• Pear, pearl onions, cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion
• Fresh rosemary sprigs
• Additional coarse salt
• Plenty of olive oil (a few Tbs.)

Variations

This Christmas Tree Focaccia is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to switch up the toppings based on what you have or prefer. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add more colors: Use bell peppers or olives to create ornaments of different hues.
• Swap the base: Try using sweet potatoes instead of pears for a unique touch.
• Herb it up: Mix in other herbs like thyme or oregano for added flavor.
• Go cheesy: Add dollops of your favorite non-dairy cheese spread before baking for extra creaminess.

How to Make Christmas Tree Focaccia

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Whisk until well mixed, then pour in the warm water. Stir everything together with a wooden spoon until you have a shaggy and wet dough — it should look messy but delicious! Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and a clean kitchen towel, then let it rest on your counter overnight (at least 12 hours). This slow rise is crucial as it develops flavor and texture.

Step 2: Shape the Bread

The next day, grab your casserole dish (about 7×12 inches should do). Drizzle some olive oil on the bottom — this helps create that lovely crust we all adore! Uncover your rested dough; it should be risen and bubbly. Gently tip it into the casserole dish, spreading it out with your hands to fit snugly. Use your fingers to dimple the surface and drizzle more olive oil on top. Now, let it rest lightly covered for another two hours while you think about how you’ll decorate!

Step 3: Preheat and Decorate

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Now comes the fun part — decorating your tree! Use fresh rosemary sprigs as branches fanned out across the dough. Cut small pieces of pear for the trunk and slice cherry tomatoes in half to use as ornaments. Pearl onions can add some cute little decorations too! Let your creativity shine here; there are no wrong choices!

Step 4: Bake

Once you’re satisfied with your design, sprinkle a little coarse salt over everything before placing it in the oven. Bake for about 25 minutes until it’s puffed and golden brown. The aroma will be irresistible!

Step 5: Serve

After baking, allow your beautiful Christmas Tree Focaccia to rest for a few minutes. Then slice it up into generous pieces and serve warm. Enjoy sharing this delicious blend of flavors with family and friends!

This recipe yields one beautiful focaccia loaf that will surely become a new holiday tradition in your home!

Pro Tips for Making Christmas Tree Focaccia

Creating the perfect Christmas Tree Focaccia can be a delightful experience, and a few handy tips can make it even more enjoyable!

• Use high-quality olive oil: A good olive oil not only enhances the flavor of your focaccia but also helps achieve that beautifully golden crust. It adds richness and depth to each bite.

• Experiment with toppings: Don’t be afraid to get creative! Use seasonal vegetables or herbs you have on hand. The more colorful and varied your toppings, the more festive and appealing your tree will look!

• Keep the dough covered: When letting the dough rise, make sure it’s well-covered with plastic wrap and a kitchen towel. This prevents it from drying out and ensures a soft, fluffy texture.

• Don’t rush the resting time: Allowing the dough to rest after shaping is crucial for developing flavor and texture. Giving it those extra hours to rise will result in a lighter, airier focaccia.

• Use coarse salt sparingly: A light sprinkle of coarse salt on top before baking enhances the flavor without overpowering the dish. It brings out the natural sweetness of the toppings beautifully!

How to Serve Christmas Tree Focaccia

Once your Christmas Tree Focaccia is baked to perfection, how you serve it can elevate the overall experience. Here are some ideas to make your presentation as delightful as the dish itself!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of additional fresh rosemary or thyme just before serving adds a burst of freshness and complements the flavors beautifully.
• Balsamic glaze: Drizzle some balsamic reduction over the focaccia for a touch of acidity that balances the richness of the olive oil and toppings.

Side Dishes

• Mixed green salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the focaccia.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers add warmth and color to your meal while providing delicious flavors that pair nicely with bread.
• Soup: A hearty vegetable soup or creamy tomato bisque makes for a cozy pairing that complements your focaccia perfectly on chilly days.
• Cheese platter: Include some plant-based cheeses alongside nuts and dried fruits for a festive touch that pairs wonderfully with slices of focaccia.

Enjoy gathering around this beautiful centerpiece at your holiday table! Your Christmas Tree Focaccia is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Christmas Tree Focaccia is not only a festive centerpiece but also an excellent choice for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment, ensuring that you have a delicious homemade bread ready to impress your family and friends.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the focaccia to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped focaccia in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Slice the focaccia into individual portions for easier thawing.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label the container with the date and type of bread.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for the best quality.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove focaccia from packaging and place it on a baking sheet.
• Cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or until crispy if you prefer.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions that might help you as you prepare your Christmas Tree Focaccia!

Can I use different toppings for my Christmas Tree Focaccia?

Absolutely! The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with various veggies, herbs, or even nuts as decorations!

How do I make my Christmas Tree Focaccia extra fluffy?

For a fluffier texture, ensure your dough has risen adequately overnight. Use warm water (not hot) when mixing the dough, and don’t rush the second rise before baking.

Can I prepare the Christmas Tree Focaccia ahead of time?

Yes! You can make this focaccia ahead of time. Follow the storage tips above to keep it fresh for your holiday gatherings.

What can I serve with my Christmas Tree Focaccia?

This festive bread pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or as a stand-alone appetizer with dips. Get creative!

Final Thoughts

Making this Christmas Tree Focaccia is more than just baking; it’s about creating something beautiful and delicious that brings joy to your holiday table. I hope you enjoy every step of this delightful recipe and share it with loved ones during this special season. Happy baking!