Quick Jam Donut Focaccia is truly a magical treat, isn’t it? That delightful chewiness of focaccia, kissed with sweet, fruity jam, and finished with that classic donut sugar-cinnamon topping – it’s a symphony of textures and flavors that feels both comforting and wonderfully unexpected. It’s the kind of breakfast that whispers tales of cozy mornings and happy hearts, a sweet and easy treat.
I remember experimenting with different bread recipes in my grandmother’s kitchen, trying to capture that perfect balance of soft crumb and golden crust. This recipe brings me right back to those joyful afternoons, filled with floury hands and the sweet scent of baking. It’s where my love for transforming simple ingredients into something special really began.
This sweet and easy treat is perfect for a leisurely weekend breakfast or a special brunch with loved ones. It’s incredibly approachable for bakers of all levels and guaranteed to bring smiles. My secret for a truly golden crust? A generous drizzle of good olive oil, of course!
What You Need to Make This Recipe
This Quick Jam Donut Focaccia comes to life with simple pantry staples! Active dry yeast ensures a beautiful rise, while a good quality fruit jam provides that sweet burst. You’ll find the full ingredient list and precise measurements for this heartwarming creation in the recipe card below, ready to guide your baking journey.
How to Make Quick Jam Donut Focaccia
Creating this delightful Quick Jam Donut Focaccia is a joy! You’ll begin by preparing a simple, airy dough, allowing it to rise beautifully. Next, you’ll lovingly spread it into your pan, dotting it with sweet jam before baking until golden. The final touch? A luscious melted butter and cinnamon-sugar topping that transforms it into a true donut experience, making it a perfect breakfast for any day.
Quick Jam Donut Focaccia
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and 2 teaspoons of granulated sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This indicates the yeast is active.
- Add the flour, salt, and 1/4 cup olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix with a spoon or your hands until a shaggy, cohesive dough forms. It will be sticky, don’t worry about kneading excessively.
- Lightly oil another large bowl. Transfer the dough to the oiled bowl, turning once to coat. Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 30-40 minutes, or until nearly doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with olive oil.
- Gently transfer the risen dough to the prepared baking pan. Using oiled fingertips, gently spread and press the dough to fill the pan, being careful not to deflate it too much. Create deep dimples all over the surface with your fingertips.
- Spoon small dollops of your chosen fruit jam into the dimples across the focaccia surface. If the jam is very thick, you can warm it slightly to make it easier to spread in the dimples.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and cooked through. The jam will be bubbly.
- While the focaccia is baking, prepare the donut topping. In a small bowl, melt the unsalted butter. In another small bowl, combine the 1/2 cup granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
- As soon as the focaccia comes out of the oven, brush the entire surface (including over the jam) with the melted butter using a pastry brush.
- Immediately sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the buttery focaccia. The warmth will help the sugar stick and slightly melt.
- Let the Quick Jam Donut Focaccia cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving warm. Enjoy!
Notes
Pro Tips for Making This Quick Jam Donut Focaccia
Oh, my dear bakers, a few little secrets can make all the difference when crafting your Quick Jam Donut Focaccia!
- Proofing Perfection: Ensure your warm water for the yeast is around 105-115°F (40-46°C). Too hot, and it kills the yeast; too cool, and it won’t activate properly. Patience during the rise is key for that lovely focaccia texture.
- Jam Selection Matters: Choose a fruit jam you absolutely adore! Thicker jams tend to hold their shape better during baking, preventing them from sinking too much into the dough. My favorites are strawberry or apricot for a classic touch in this Quick Jam Donut Focaccia.
- Donut Topping Drizzle: Don’t be shy with the melted butter and cinnamon-sugar mixture! Apply it generously while the focaccia is still warm. This allows the butter to soak in, creating that irresistible donut-like coating we all crave.
- My Secret Trick: I always lightly oil my hands when pressing the dough into the pan. It prevents sticking and helps create those signature focaccia dimples without tearing the delicate dough. Trust me, it makes the process so much smoother and more enjoyable!
Fun Variations for Quick Jam Donut Focaccia
One of the most wonderful things about baking is the freedom to get creative and make a recipe truly your own! This Quick Jam Donut Focaccia is wonderfully versatile, just waiting for your personal touch.
Seasonal Fruit Swirls
Instead of just jam, try adding fresh, thinly sliced fruit like peaches or berries along with your jam dots. My sister always asks me to swirl in raspberry jam with a few fresh raspberries when they’re in season – it’s divine for this Quick Jam Donut Focaccia!
Citrus Zest Sparkle
For a brighter flavor profile, incorporate a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest into your dough. A friend loves when I do this, saying it adds a lovely, subtle perfume to the focaccia. It’s a small change with a big impact!
Nutty Crunch Topping
Before adding the cinnamon-sugar, sprinkle some finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts over the warm focaccia. The added crunch and nutty flavor create a delightful contrast to the soft bread and sweet jam.
What to Serve With Quick Jam Donut Focaccia
This Quick Jam Donut Focaccia is absolutely enchanting on its own, but sometimes a little accompaniment makes a sweet treat feel even more special!
- A Perfect Morning Brew: My mom always says a slice of this focaccia is best enjoyed with a strong cup of freshly brewed coffee or a soothing herbal tea. It’s the ultimate pairing for a slow, comforting morning.
- Creamy Dreamy Sides: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream takes this dessert to another level of indulgence, especially if you’re serving your Quick Jam Donut Focaccia warm for an afternoon treat.
- Fresh Fruit & Yogurt: For a lighter breakfast or brunch spread, pair your focaccia with a side of fresh mixed berries and a small bowl of plain Greek yogurt. The tartness balances the sweetness beautifully.
How to Store Your Sweet Focaccia
To keep your delightful Quick Jam Donut Focaccia tasting its best, proper storage is key!
At Room Temperature
If you plan to enjoy your focaccia within 1-2 days, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps maintain its soft texture and prevents it from drying out. A cool, dry spot on your counter is perfect.
Refrigeration Tips
For longer storage, up to 4-5 days, transfer any cooled leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. The jam will stay fresh, and the focaccia will maintain its delightful moisture.
Reheating for Freshness
To bring your refrigerated focaccia back to life, gently warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds until just heated through. I love a light dusting of powdered sugar after reheating; it truly brings it back to its freshly baked glory!
A Sweet Treat with Wholesome Goodness
While we embrace the joy of indulgence, this Quick Jam Donut Focaccia offers simple goodness. The fruit jam provides natural sugars and a touch of vitamins. It’s a wonderful reminder that homemade treats, made with love and simple ingredients, can be both satisfying and nourishing for the soul, a perfect breakfast option.
FAQs
Faq 1
Can I use frozen fruit instead of jam?
Yes, you can! Thaw frozen fruit first, drain any excess liquid, and then mash it slightly before dotting it onto the focaccia dough. It will create a lovely, fresh fruit burst in your Quick Jam Donut Focaccia.
Faq 2
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough for your Quick Jam Donut Focaccia the night before. After the first rise, punch it down gently, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature for 30-60 minutes before proceeding.
Faq 3
What kind of olive oil should I use?
I always recommend using a good quality extra virgin olive oil for both the dough and drizzling on top of your Quick Jam Donut Focaccia. Its fruity notes complement the sweet jam beautifully and contribute to that rich, authentic focaccia flavor.
Faq 4
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
While this specific recipe uses all-purpose flour, you might adapt it using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Results can vary with gluten-free baking, so a bit of experimentation might be needed to achieve the perfect Quick Jam Donut Focaccia texture.
Conclusion
Baking this Quick Jam Donut Focaccia isn’t just about creating a delicious breakfast; it’s about infusing your kitchen with warmth and making beautiful memories. From the comforting aroma that fills your home to the happy smiles around the table, this sweet and easy treat truly embodies the joy of homemade desserts. I encourage you to gather your ingredients, embrace the process, and share this delightful creation with those you love. Happy baking, sweet friends!
