Christmas Tree Focaccia

If you’re looking for a fun and festive way to celebrate the holiday season, look no further than this delightful Christmas Tree Focaccia! This recipe is not just about the delicious flavors; it’s about bringing joy and creativity into your kitchen. The sight of a beautifully decorated focaccia shaped like a Christmas tree will warm your heart and impress everyone at your gathering.

What I love most about this Christmas Tree Focaccia is its versatility. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even as a centerpiece for holiday parties. Plus, it’s so easy to make that you can involve the kids in decorating. Let their imaginations run wild while you enjoy some quality time together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, this recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
• Family-friendly fun: Decorating the focaccia is a great activity to do with kids, making it a memorable experience.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the dough the night before, and bake it fresh right before serving!
• Delicious flavor: The combination of olive oil, fresh rosemary, and colorful veggies makes every bite delightful.
• A feast for the eyes: This festive bread not only tastes good but also looks stunning on your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this Christmas Tree Focaccia requires just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 3 cups bread flour
• 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 1/4 tsp coarse salt
• 1 2/3rd cup warm water
• Pear, pearl onions, cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion
• Fresh rosemary sprigs
• Coarse salt
• Plenty of olive oil (a few Tbs.)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your toppings or even change things up based on what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the veggies: Use bell peppers, olives, or any seasonal vegetables you love.
• Add cheese: Sprinkle some crumbled feta or shredded mozzarella on top for added richness.
• Try different herbs: Swap out rosemary for thyme or oregano to change up the flavor profile.
• Make it sweet: Consider adding thin slices of apple or other fruits for a sweeter version perfect for brunch.

How to Make Christmas Tree Focaccia

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Whisk until combined, then add in the warm water. Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough comes together—think shaggy and wet! Cover it up with plastic wrap and a clean kitchen towel, and let it rest overnight on your counter. This long rise develops flavor and gives your focaccia that lovely texture.

Step 2: Shape Your Focaccia

The next day, grab your casserole dish (around 7×12 inches works well) and drizzle some olive oil on the bottom. When you uncover your dough, you should see that it has risen beautifully—bubbly and full of life! Carefully tip it into the dish and stretch it gently to fit snugly. Dimple it with your fingers so it’s ready to soak up more olive oil before letting it rest lightly covered for another two hours.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

While waiting for that last rise, go ahead and preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that when you’re ready to bake your focaccia, it’s met with hot air right away!

Step 4: Decorate Your Christmas Tree

Now comes the fun part—decorating! Use those fresh rosemary sprigs as branches; they bring such wonderful aroma. Cut a piece of pear as the base of your tree and use halved cherry tomatoes as ornaments. Get creative! Maybe add some sliced pearl onions too? The sky’s the limit here!

Step 5: Bake Your Focaccia

Once you’re happy with your decoration, sprinkle everything lightly with coarse salt before baking it in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s puffed up nice and golden brown—a real showstopper!

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Let your beautiful focaccia rest for a few minutes once it’s out of the oven. Then slice it into pieces and serve! It will be an instant hit at any holiday gathering or cozy dinner at home.

Enjoy baking this lovely Christmas Tree Focaccia—it’s sure to create wonderful memories around your table!

Pro Tips for Making Christmas Tree Focaccia

Creating a stunning Christmas Tree Focaccia is easier than you might think! Here are some tips to ensure your focaccia turns out as beautiful as it is delicious.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh rosemary, ripe cherry tomatoes, and in-season pears not only enhance the flavor but also make your focaccia look vibrant and festive. Quality ingredients lead to a better taste and presentation.

• Don’t rush the rising time: Allowing the dough to rise overnight gives the bread its unique texture and flavor. Patience is key here; the longer it rises, the better the focaccia will be!

• Experiment with decorations: Feel free to play around with different toppings like olives, bell peppers, or even edible flowers for a personal touch. This creativity makes your focaccia unique and adds to the holiday spirit!

• Coat generously with olive oil: A good drizzle of olive oil before baking not only adds flavor but also helps achieve that golden crust. It ensures that your focaccia stays moist and delightful.

• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing your focaccia to rest for a few minutes after baking helps set the toppings and makes it easier to slice without losing any decorative elements.

How to Serve Christmas Tree Focaccia

Presenting your Christmas Tree Focaccia can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of additional rosemary or thyme on top just before serving can enhance both the aroma and visual appeal.
• Balsamic glaze: Drizzling a bit of balsamic reduction over the top adds a sweet-tart flavor that pairs beautifully with your focaccia.

Side Dishes

• Mixed greens salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, walnuts, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the focaccia while adding freshness.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts, carrots, and sweet potatoes roasted in olive oil bring color and depth alongside your focaccia.
• Hummus platter: Serve with an assortment of vegetable sticks (like cucumber and bell peppers) for dipping into creamy hummus. It’s a healthy option that enhances your meal experience.
• Cheese board: A selection of non-dairy cheeses paired with olives, nuts, and dried fruits makes for an elegant pairing that guests will love.

With these serving suggestions, your Christmas Tree Focaccia will not only be a feast for the taste buds but also a stunning centerpiece for your holiday gatherings! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Christmas Tree Focaccia is not only a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table, but it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance and enjoy it fresh whenever you like.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the focaccia to cool completely before storing.
• Place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Freezing

• Slice the focaccia into individual pieces before freezing for convenience.
• Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the bag!

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the focaccia on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Christmas Tree Focaccia that might help you!

Can I make this Christmas Tree Focaccia ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise overnight. Simply shape and decorate it the next day before baking.

What toppings work best on my Christmas Tree Focaccia?

Feel free to get creative! Fresh herbs, various vegetables, or even nuts can be great additions. Just ensure they complement the flavors of your focaccia.

How do I store leftover Christmas Tree Focaccia?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, whole wheat flour can be substituted, but it may change the texture slightly. You might want to combine it with bread flour for a lighter result.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this delightful Christmas Tree Focaccia. Its beautiful presentation and delicious flavors make it a truly special addition to your holiday celebrations. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a quiet evening with a slice, this recipe is sure to bring warmth and cheer. Happy baking!