Delicious Overnight Focaccia Recipe for Perfectly Fluffy Bread

Name: Delicious Overnight Focaccia Recipe for Perfectly Fluffy Bread
Prep time: 1080 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1110 min
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour); 2-3 teaspoons kosher salt; 2 teaspoons instant yeast; 2 cups lukewarm water; butter for greasing; 4 tablespoons olive oil (divided); 1-2 teaspoons whole rosemary leaves (optional)

Published: January 30, 2026

by Grace Bennett

Why You'll Love This Overnight Focaccia

This incredible Overnight Focaccia transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

Ingredients for Overnight Focaccia

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Overnight Focaccia:

4 cups (512 g) all-purpose flour or bread flour – Use high-quality flour for a fluffy texture and optimal rise.

2 to 3 teaspoons (10 to 15 grams) kosher salt – Essential for flavor; adjust according to taste preference.

2 teaspoons (8 g) instant yeast – Instant yeast speeds up the fermentation process, ensuring the dough rises beautifully.

2 cups (455 g) lukewarm water – The warmth encourages yeast activation, making the dough rise faster.

Butter for greasing – This ensures easy removal of the focaccia after baking.

4 tablespoons olive oil, divided – Adds flavor and helps create that irresistible crispy crust.

Flaky sea salt – For finishing touches that enhance the flavor profile.

1 to 2 teaspoons whole rosemary leaves (optional) – Fresh herbs elevate the flavor, giving it a delightful aroma.

How to Make Overnight Focaccia

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Overnight Focaccia:

Step 1: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, kosher salt, and instant yeast until well-combined. Make sure to give them a thorough mixing to ensure that the yeast and salt are evenly distributed. Now, gradually add the lukewarm water and mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a sticky dough forms. Don’t be alarmed at the stickiness; it’s all part of the charm! Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let the dough rest for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Cold Fermentation
After the dough has rested, drizzle a little olive oil over the surface, rubbing it gently to coat. This keeps the dough moist. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator. Here’s where the magic happens; let it chill for at least 12 hours, or up to 3 days if you can resist the temptation.

Step 3: Prepare Your Baking Pan
When you’re ready to bake, grab your favorite baking pans. Grease them generously with butter or line them with parchment paper if you prefer. Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil into each pan. The oil will help create that gorgeous, crispy crust we all love.

Step 4: Shape the Dough
Take the dough out of the fridge. It should be puffy and bubbly! Gently deflate it and split it into two equal pieces. Transfer each piece into the prepared pans, rolling them around to coat in the oily goodness. Cover the pans with a towel, and let them rest for 3 to 4 hours at room temperature, allowing them to double in size. You might want to grab a coffee (or a glass of wine) while you wait—this part is essential, but it doesn’t require much work.

Step 5: Preheat the Oven and Season the Dough
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Once preheated, gently sprinkle the top of the dough with rosemary leaves if you’re using them. Drizzle a little more olive oil over the top, giving it a nice sheen. Now, using your fingers, create dimples all over the surface of the dough. Sprinkle a generous amount of flaky sea salt on top like a delicious finishing touch.

Step 6: Bake and Enjoy!
Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the bottoms are golden and crisp. Your kitchen will soon be filled with a heavenly aroma, and you might find it hard to resist a sneak peek! Once baked to perfection, let the focaccia cool for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. This helps maintain its texture, so be patient! Slice it up, and get ready to indulge in the warm goodness.

Overnight Focaccia is more than just a recipe; it’s an adventure in flavor and texture that brings everyone together. Serve it with olive oil for dipping, enjoy it as a sandwich base, or savor it plain—whatever way you choose, it’s bound to be a showstopper!

Whether you’re making it for a laid-back family dinner or a fancy gathering of friends, this bread will surely steal the spotlight and leave everyone asking for seconds. Happy baking!

You Must Know About Overnight Focaccia

This showstopping Overnight Focaccia delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Overnight Focaccia Cooking Process

When making Overnight Focaccia, always start by mixing the dry ingredients first. Add the wet ingredients gradually to avoid clumping. After the dough has rested and risen, shape it gently and allow it to rise again before baking for optimal fluffiness.

Add Your Touch to Overnight Focaccia

Feel free to get creative with your Overnight Focaccia. Try different herbs or mix in sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or cheese for added flavor. A splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of garlic powder will also elevate your bread to new heights.

Storing & Reheating Overnight Focaccia

Store leftover Overnight Focaccia at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two days. To reheat, pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore its delightful crispness.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Overnight Focaccia

This professional-quality Overnight Focaccia relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

It was during a laid-back weekend gathering when my friends devoured the whole tray of Overnight Focaccia in mere minutes. One even joked about naming their next pet “Focaccia” in honor of my baking triumph!

FAQs About Overnight Focaccia

What is Overnight Focaccia?

Overnight Focaccia is a wonderfully simple bread-making technique that requires minimal effort and time while delivering maximum flavor and texture. This method involves allowing the dough to rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight, which enhances its taste and fluffiness. The secret lies in the long fermentation process, which develops the gluten and creates those signature air bubbles that make this bread delightfully chewy and soft inside with a crisp crust. It’s perfect for any home cook looking to impress their family or guests without spending all day in the kitchen.

How can I customize my Overnight Focaccia?

Customization is where Overnight Focaccia truly shines! Feel free to let your imagination run wild. You can incorporate various herbs, such as thyme or oregano, to match your flavor preferences. Additionally, consider mixing in sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or even a sprinkle of cheese for an exciting twist. Want to add a bit of zing? A splash of balsamic vinegar or a hint of garlic powder can elevate the taste! The options are endless, making it a versatile dish suitable for any occasion or palate.

How should I store leftover Overnight Focaccia?

Storing leftover Overnight Focaccia is simple! Keep it at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two days. The key is to ensure it’s properly sealed to prevent it from drying out. If you want to prolong its freshness, you can wrap it in plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator where it will last a few extra days. When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, simply reheat the focaccia in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore its delightful crispiness and warm, fluffy texture.

Can I freeze Overnight Focaccia?

Absolutely, Overnight Focaccia freezes beautifully! To freeze, make sure the bread is completely cooled, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, take it out of the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature or reheat it directly from frozen in the oven. This way, you can savor the delicious flavors of freshly baked focaccia whenever the craving strikes!

Conclusion for Overnight Focaccia

In summary, Overnight Focaccia is a fantastic choice for bread lovers wanting to create delicious, restaurant-quality bread at home with minimal effort. By allowing the dough to ferment overnight, you unlock remarkable flavors and textures that will impress your family and friends. Remember to experiment with various toppings and ingredients to make it your own. Don’t forget, this incredible Overnight Focaccia is not just for dinner; it can elevate any meal or occasion! So, roll up your sleeves, get baking, and enjoy every bite!