This Jalapeno Cheddar Focaccia recipe combines the savory goodness of sharp cheddar cheese with the zesty kick of jalapenos, all atop a fluffy, homemade focaccia bread. Perfect for adding a flavorful twist to your breadbasket or serving as a standalone snack.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 jalapenos, thinly sliced
- Coarse sea salt, for topping
- Freshly ground black pepper, for topping
- Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme) for extra flavor
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the yeast is foamy.
- Once the yeast is activated, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the bowl along with the salt and flour. Mix until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
- Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet. Use your hands to press and stretch the dough into a rectangle or oval shape, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the top of the dough. Use your fingers to create dimples all over the surface of the dough.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the dough, then arrange the sliced jalapenos on top. If desired, sprinkle with coarse sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and chopped fresh herbs.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious Jalapeno Cheddar Focaccia warm or at room temperature!
