Description
To fully appreciate this spectacular bread, you must understand the unique elements that set it apart from standard loaves. At its core, the crispy chili crunch focaccia recipe is an oil enriched, high moisture yeast dough that gets baked in a generous amount of fat. Unlike dense sandwich breads, this traditional Italian style flatbread relies on a sticky, wet dough structure that creates massive air pockets during the fermentation process. The absolute defining characteristic of this version is the rich, fiery, and deeply aromatic topping that is deeply dimpled directly into the surface before baking.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough
- 4 cups (500 g) bread flour
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1¾ cups (420 ml) warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Topping
- 3 tablespoons chili crunch (or chili crisp)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
1. Make the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine the bread flour, instant yeast, and salt.
- Add the warm water and olive oil, then stir until a sticky dough forms.
- Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Pan
- Generously oil a 9×13-inch baking pan with olive oil.
- Transfer the risen dough to the pan and gently stretch it toward the edges.
- Cover and let it rest for another 30–45 minutes.
3. Add the Toppings
- Mix the chili crunch with olive oil and minced garlic.
- Drizzle the mixture evenly over the dough.
- Using your fingertips, press deep dimples all over the surface.
- Sprinkle with flaky sea salt, oregano or rosemary, sesame seeds, and Parmesan if using.
4. Bake
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown with a crisp exterior.
5. Finish and Serve
- Let the focaccia cool for 10 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
- Slice into squares and serve warm.
Notes
- Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus 2–3 hours rising time)
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: Approximately 220 kcal
Keywords: chili crisp focaccia bread, spicy italian flatbread copycat, spicy dimpled artisan bread