How to Make Light Fluffy Sourdough Focaccia

If you’ve ever dreamed of baking bread that’s irresistibly soft, airy, and packed with flavor, then this recipe for Light Fluffy Sourdough Focaccia is exactly what you need. This delicious focaccia combines the natural tang of sourdough with a pillowy texture that’s perfect for sandwiches, dipping, or enjoying on its own. Follow along and discover the secret to perfect Light Fluffy Sourdough Focaccia with easy steps for soft, airy bread bursting with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Naturally Leavened: Uses sourdough starter for a rich, complex flavor without any commercial yeast.
• Light and Airy Texture: Achieves unmatched fluffiness that melts in your mouth.
• Simple Ingredients: Requires pantry basics that enhance each other beautifully.
• Versatile Base: Easily customized with herbs, toppings, or different flours.
• Impressive Results: Perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers craving artisan bread.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Light Fluffy Sourdough Focaccia recipe is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and create an airy crumb. These simple components work in harmony to give you soft texture, golden crust, and that delicious sourdough tang.

• Sourdough Starter: The heart of the bread, providing natural fermentation and depth of flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: Gives structure and a tender crumb, ideal for focaccia’s soft bite.
• Water: Hydrates the dough for a light, moist texture.
• Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps develop the signature crispy yet tender crust.
• Salt: Enhances flavor and strengthens gluten for good dough elasticity.
• Optional Toppings: Coarse sea salt, fresh rosemary, or garlic to elevate aroma and taste.

Variations for Light Fluffy Sourdough Focaccia

This recipe is incredibly adaptable, making it easy to customize according to your pantry or personal preferences. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!

• Herb Infusion: Add thyme, oregano, or basil for an herbal twist.
• Veggie Toppings: Incorporate caramelized onions, cherry tomatoes, or olives for extra flavor and texture.
• Gluten-Friendly: Substitute part of the flour blend with spelt or white whole wheat for a wholesome boost.
• Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella right before baking for melty goodness.
• Garlic Lovers: Mix roasted garlic into the dough or drizzle garlic-infused olive oil on top.

How to Make Light Fluffy Sourdough Focaccia

Step 1: Prepare Your Starter

Make sure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly. Feed it 4-6 hours before mixing your dough to achieve optimal rise and flavor development.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

Combine the starter, flour, and water in a large bowl until just combined, then let it rest for an autolyse period of about 30 minutes. Add salt and olive oil afterward and gently incorporate.

Step 3: Bulk Fermentation and Stretch & Folds

Allow the dough to ferment at room temperature for around 4-6 hours. Perform a series of stretch and folds every 30-45 minutes during the first half of this time to build gluten structure and trap air.

Step 4: Shape and Proof

Transfer the dough to a well-oiled pan, gently spreading it out to your desired thickness. Cover and proof for 1-2 hours until it puffs up noticeably.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Bake

Drizzle olive oil over the dough, dimple the surface with your fingertips, and sprinkle with sea salt and herbs or toppings. Bake in a preheated oven at 450°F (230°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the edges.

Pro Tips for Making Light Fluffy Sourdough Focaccia

• Hydration Matters: Use a high hydration dough (around 80%) to ensure an open, airy crumb.
• Room Temperature Fermentation: Let your dough rise at a warm spot for consistent activity of the starter.
• Gentle Handling: Be careful when transferring the dough to keep in as much air as possible.
• Quality Olive Oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for better flavor and crust texture.
• Dimpling is Key: Press fingers gently into the dough before baking to create the signature focaccia texture.
• Preheat the Oven Well: A hot oven ensures a quick rise and the perfect crispy crust.

How to Serve Light Fluffy Sourdough Focaccia

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme add a fragrant touch, while flaky sea salt enhances the crust’s crunch and flavor contrast beautifully with the soft interior.

Side Dishes

This focaccia pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, and cheeses, making it a versatile addition to any meal or a tasty standalone snack.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing into thick squares for sandwiches or tearing into rustic pieces for a communal dining experience. You can even serve it alongside olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your focaccia tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain softness and freshness.

Freezing

To keep focaccia longer, freeze it in portions wrapped in foil and plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

Reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to revive the crust’s crispiness and warm the inside evenly.

FAQs

Can I use commercial yeast instead of sourdough starter?

Yes, you can substitute with commercial yeast for a quicker rise, but the unique tang and complexity from sourdough will be less pronounced.

What if my dough is too sticky to handle?

Lightly oil your hands and work surface instead of adding extra flour to avoid drying out the dough, and remember that sticky dough is typical for high hydration focaccia.

How do I know when my dough is properly proofed?

The dough should visibly puff up and hold indentations gently pressed with your finger without immediately springing back.

Can I add toppings after baking?

While toppings are best added before baking to meld flavors, drizzling olive oil or sprinkling herbs after baking can add freshness and aroma.

How long does sourdough focaccia keep fresh?

When stored properly at room temperature, it remains fresh for about 2 days, though it’s best enjoyed the same day for optimal texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly rewarding about baking your own Light Fluffy Sourdough Focaccia — from mixing the dough to pulling out a golden, aromatic loaf that’s light as a cloud. This recipe will quickly become a favorite for its simplicity, versatility, and outstanding results. So grab your starter, oil, and flour, and get ready to bake focaccia you’ll be proud to share with loved ones.

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