Save to Pinterest A vibrant, aromatic focaccia featuring juicy cranberries and zesty orange, with a crisp crust and pillowy interior. Budget-friendly, easy, and perfect for breakfast or brunch.
I first baked this cranberry orange focaccia for a weekend brunch and was amazed by how easily the dough came together overnight. The crust always turns golden and the tart cranberries burst with each bite.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 3 cups (375 g)
- Salt: 1 ¼ teaspoons
- Instant yeast: 1 teaspoon
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon (plus 2 tablespoons for topping)
- Lukewarm water: 1 ¼ cups (300 ml)
- Olive oil: 3 tablespoons (plus more for greasing and drizzling)
- Cranberries: 1 cup (100 g) fresh or frozen (if using frozen, do not thaw)
- Orange zest: Zest of 1 large orange
Instructions
- Prepare the dough:
- Combine flour, salt, instant yeast, and 1 tablespoon sugar in a large mixing bowl. Mix well.
- Add wet ingredients:
- Pour in lukewarm water and 3 tablespoons olive oil. Stir until a shaggy, sticky dough forms. Do not knead.
- First rise:
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a clean towel. Let rise at room temperature for 8 to 12 hours until bubbly and doubled.
- Shape the dough:
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon olive oil into a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking pan. Scrape dough into pan and gently stretch to fit.
- Second rise:
- Cover and let rest for 30 to 45 minutes until slightly puffy.
- Preheat oven:
- Set oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Add topping:
- With oiled fingers, press dimples all over dough. Scatter cranberries evenly, gently pressing some into the dough. Sprinkle orange zest and 2 tablespoons sugar over top, then drizzle with extra olive oil if desired.
- Bake:
- Bake for 22 to 25 minutes until golden and set.
- Cool and serve:
- Let rest briefly before slicing and serving.
Save to Pinterest My kids love helping scatter the cranberries and making dimples in the dough. It's now our go-to recipe for a cheerful holiday morning.
Flavor Variations
For added crunch, include chopped walnuts or pistachios before baking. Try substituting lemon zest for orange zest for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy warm slices topped with whipped honey butter or mascarpone. Serve alongside coffee or fresh orange juice.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Toast slices to revive freshness.
Save to Pinterest Brighten your breakfast table with this easy cranberry orange focaccia. Share slices fresh from the oven and savor the festive aroma.
Recipe FAQs
- → How does the no-knead method affect the focaccia?
The no-knead technique relies on a long rest to develop gluten naturally, resulting in a tender, airy texture with minimal effort.
- → Can frozen cranberries be used directly?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used without thawing to maintain their texture and prevent excess moisture in the dough.
- → What is the purpose of orange zest in this bread?
Orange zest adds refreshing citrus aroma and brightness that complements the tart cranberries, enhancing flavor complexity.
- → How do I achieve a crispy crust?
Drizzling olive oil over the dough and baking at a high temperature creates a crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft.
- → Are there variations to the toppings suggested?
Yes, chopped nuts like walnuts or pistachios can add crunch, and finishing with honey butter or mascarpone enriches the serving options.