Are you craving the warmth and comforting aroma of cinnamon rolls but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen? Then get ready to be amazed! This Cinnamon Roll Focaccia recipe combines the delightful flavors of a classic cinnamon roll with the simplicity and speed of focaccia bread. It's the perfect sweet treat for a weekend brunch, an afternoon snack, or even a surprisingly delicious dessert. This recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. Prepare for a burst of deliciousness that's as easy as it is impressive! Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game with this delightful dish.
Ingredients:
For the Focaccia Dough:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for greasing
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Glaze (Optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-4 tablespoons milk or cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Making the Dough:
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In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This is a crucial step to ensure your bread rises beautifully.
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Stir in olive oil, flour, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
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Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
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Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size. This is where patience pays off for a truly light and airy focaccia.
Assembling and Baking the Focaccia:
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
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Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to the prepared pan. Press the dough evenly into the pan.
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In a small bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Spread this mixture evenly over the dough.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Making the Glaze (Optional):
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While the focaccia is still warm, whisk together powdered sugar, milk (or cream), and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the amount of milk to achieve your desired consistency.
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Drizzle the glaze over the baked focaccia.
Tips for the Best Cinnamon Roll Focaccia:
- Yeast Activation: Ensure your yeast is fresh and the water is the correct temperature for optimal activation.
- Don't Overknead: Overkneading can result in a tough focaccia. Aim for a smooth, elastic dough.
- Even Spreading: Spread the cinnamon filling evenly to ensure consistent flavor throughout.
- Baking Time: Oven temperatures vary, so keep an eye on your focaccia and adjust baking time as needed.
Variations:
- Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon filling for extra crunch and flavor.
- Different Spices: Experiment with other spices like nutmeg or cardamom along with the cinnamon.
- Fruit Filling: Substitute the cinnamon filling with a mixture of chopped apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon for an apple cinnamon focaccia.
- Cream Cheese Glaze: For an even richer glaze, use cream cheese frosting instead of a powdered sugar glaze.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients and serving size. Use a nutrition calculator for a precise analysis based on your specific recipe adjustments. Generally, expect this to be a moderately high-calorie, but satisfying, treat.
This Cinnamon Roll Focaccia is a quick dinner idea that's perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth. It's a delicious and easy recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!