Cranberry Orange Focaccia

Name: Cranberry Orange Focaccia: A Flavorful Baking Adventure!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup warm water; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast; 1 cup fresh cranberries; Zest of 1 orange; Juice of 1 orange; Coarse sea salt for topping

Posted on October 7, 2025

Breakfast

Introduction to Cranberry Orange Focaccia

Welcome to my kitchen, where the aroma of freshly baked bread fills the air! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Cranberry Orange Focaccia. This delightful bread is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s a quick solution for those busy days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. The tartness of cranberries combined with the zesty flavor of oranges creates a unique experience that’s perfect for any occasion. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Focaccia

This Cranberry Orange Focaccia is a game-changer for busy moms and professionals alike. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time. The delightful combination of sweet and tart flavors will have your family asking for seconds. Plus, the warm, inviting aroma wafting through your home will make everyone feel cozy and loved. It’s the perfect way to elevate any meal or snack time!

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Focaccia

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your delicious Cranberry Orange Focaccia. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your focaccia, providing structure and a lovely chewy texture.
Warm water: Activating the yeast requires warm water, which helps create that perfect rise.
Olive oil: Adds richness and flavor, making the bread moist and delightful.

Sugar: Just a touch to feed the yeast and enhance the overall flavor.
Salt: Essential for flavor, it balances the sweetness of the cranberries and oranges.
Active dry yeast: This little powerhouse helps the dough rise, creating that airy texture we love.

Fresh cranberries: Their tartness is a perfect contrast to the sweetness of the orange.
Orange zest: Adds a burst of citrus flavor, brightening up the bread.
Orange juice: Infuses the dough with a refreshing taste, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Coarse sea salt: For topping, it adds a delightful crunch and enhances the flavors.

For those looking to experiment, consider adding a drizzle of honey or maple syrup before serving for a sweeter touch. If you’re out of fresh cranberries, dried ones can work in a pinch, though they’ll change the texture slightly. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Cranberry Orange Focaccia

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making your Cranberry Orange Focaccia! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful loaf that’s bursting with flavor.

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

Start by combining warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it becomes frothy and bubbly. This is the magic moment when the yeast wakes up, ready to work its wonders!

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

Once your yeast mixture is frothy, add in the olive oil, orange juice, and orange zest. Stir everything together until well combined. The aroma of citrus will start to fill your kitchen, and trust me, it’s heavenly!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Make a little well in the center and gradually pour in the wet ingredients. Mix until everything is just combined. You want to see a shaggy dough forming, which is a good sign!

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Now, it’s time to knead! Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes. You’re looking for a smooth and elastic texture. If the dough sticks to your hands, sprinkle a little more flour as needed. This is a great workout for your arms!

Step 5: Let the Dough Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot. You want it to double in size, which usually takes about an hour. This is the perfect time to tidy up your kitchen or sip on a cup of tea!

Step 6: Preheat the Oven

While your dough is rising, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your focaccia will bake evenly and develop that lovely golden crust we all adore.

Step 7: Incorporate Cranberries

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Fold in the fresh cranberries, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step adds that delightful tartness that pairs so well with the orange.

Step 8: Shape the Dough

Spread the dough onto a greased baking sheet. Use your fingers to create dimples all over the surface. This not only looks beautiful but also helps the focaccia hold onto the olive oil and sea salt you’ll sprinkle on top.

Step 9: Final Rise

Let the shaped dough rise again for about 20 minutes. This final rise is crucial for achieving that fluffy texture. While you wait, you can prepare your toppings and get excited about the deliciousness to come!

Step 10: Bake the Focaccia

Now it’s time to bake! Place your focaccia in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want it to be golden brown. To check for doneness, tap the bottom of the bread—it should sound hollow. Once baked, let it cool before slicing. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Tips for Success

Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor; frozen can work, but may alter texture.

Don’t skip the second rise; it’s key for a light and airy focaccia.
Experiment with toppings like rosemary or nuts for added flavor and texture.
Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens can vary, so check for that golden brown.

Let the focaccia cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls: A large bowl for mixing dough and a smaller one for the yeast mixture.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.

Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for mixing the dough without scratching your bowls.
Baking sheet: A standard sheet works well; a cast iron skillet adds a nice crust.
Kitchen towel: To cover the dough while it rises.

Variations of Cranberry Orange Focaccia

Herbed Focaccia: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for an aromatic twist.
Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
Cheesy Focaccia: Sprinkle shredded cheese, like feta or mozzarella, on top before baking for a savory touch.

Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.
Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, cozy flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Orange Focaccia

Pair with a creamy goat cheese or brie for a delightful appetizer.

Serve alongside a fresh salad for a light lunch option.
Enjoy with a warm cup of herbal tea or a glass of sparkling water.
Slice and toast for a delicious breakfast treat with butter.

Garnish with fresh orange slices for a beautiful presentation.

FAQs about Cranberry Orange Focaccia

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried cranberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Just keep in mind that they’ll add a different texture and sweetness to your Cranberry Orange Focaccia.

How do I store leftover focaccia?

Store any leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it!

Can I make this focaccia ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then refrigerate it overnight. Just bring it back to room temperature before baking for the best results.

What can I serve with Cranberry Orange Focaccia?

This focaccia pairs beautifully with cheese, salads, or even as a side to soups. It’s versatile enough to complement many dishes!

Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it’s a blend that works well for bread baking!

Final Thoughts

Making Cranberry Orange Focaccia is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories in the kitchen. The joy of kneading the dough, watching it rise, and finally pulling that golden loaf from the oven is truly rewarding. Each bite is a delightful blend of tart and sweet, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a festive gathering, this focaccia brings warmth and happiness to the table. I hope you enjoy this baking adventure as much as I do, and may it inspire you to create even more delicious moments in your kitchen!