Stepping into my cozy kitchen, the rich aroma of sweet, yeasty dough rises like an old friend, wrapping around me with warmth and comfort. I’d recently taken a leap into the world of creative baking, and what emerged was this delightful Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia—a delightful mashup that combines the fluffy texture of traditional focaccia with the nostalgia of bite-sized jam-filled donuts. Perfect for an indulgent breakfast or a leisurely weekend brunch, this recipe shines with its simple ingredient list and the flexibility to experiment with any jam that tickles your fancy. Not only is it a fun way to elevate your baking game, but it’s also freezer-friendly, making it easy to enjoy a touch of sweetness whenever the craving strikes. Ready to bring a little joyful nostalgia into your kitchen? Let’s dive into this delicious treat!
Why is this recipe a must-try?
Simplicity at its Core: This Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia requires just a few staple ingredients, making it perfect for novice bakers.
Nostalgic Flavor: Imagine the sweet, fruity flavor of your favorite jam-filled donuts combined with the airy texture of focaccia—pure bliss!
Versatile & Creative: Feel free to switch up the jam or even add toppings like fresh berries or whipped cream for added flair.
Time-Saving Delight: Enjoy a beautiful brunch dish that can be prepped ahead and frozen before glazing, ready to serve when the craving hits.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for family gatherings or weekend brunches, this unique fusion dish will impress anyone at your table. Don’t miss out on trying my delightful Homemade Butter Chicken or serve it alongside some tasty Jamaican Beef Patties for a full spread!
Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia Ingredients
Get ready to create the ultimate brunch treat with these simple ingredients!
For the Dough
- Warm Water – Ensures proper yeast activation; ideal temperature is between 105-115°F.
- Sugar – Feeds the yeast, promoting a fluffy rise and a hint of sweetness.
- Active Dry Yeast – The key leavening agent that gives your bread its delightful texture; let it bubble in warm water before using.
- Bread Flour – Provides strength and chewiness; can be substituted with all-purpose flour for a softer end result.
- All-Purpose Flour – Balances the dough’s texture; can be fully replaced with bread flour if preferred.
- Salt – Enhances the flavor and controls yeast activity for optimum rising.
- Olive Oil – Adds richness to the dough and prevents sticking; be strategic and use it in portions as needed.
For the Filling
- Raspberry Preserves – Creates sweet pockets of goodness; feel free to swap in your favorite jam varieties for a custom taste!
For the Glaze
- Confectioners’ Sugar – A sweet finishing touch that brings the jam donut vibe to life.
- Whole Milk – Adjust the amount to achieve your desired icing consistency for the perfect drizzle.
Dive into the magic of Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia and watch your kitchen transform into a hub of delightful baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water (between 105-115°F) with 2 tablespoons of sugar, whisking until fully dissolved. Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast on top and let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy and bubbles—the magic for your Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia has begun!
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a larger mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of bread flour, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Once your yeast mixture is frothy, pour it into the flour mixture. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until a sticky dough forms, ensuring everything is well-combined and ready for the first rise!
Step 3: First Rise
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, covering it tightly with plastic wrap or a damp cloth. Place it in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size. This crucial step allows the Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia to develop its fluffy texture, so keep an eye on it until it’s puffy and pillowy!
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease a 9×13-inch metal baking pan with olive oil to prevent sticking. Once your dough has risen, gently punch it down to release air and transfer it to the prepared pan. Stretch and fold the dough evenly to promote gluten development while filling the pan, creating a beautiful base for your focaccia.
Step 5: Second Rise
Cover the baking pan with a kitchen towel and let the dough rise again in a warm spot for another 30-60 minutes. During this time, the dough will begin to spread and fill the edges of the pan, giving you that fluffy texture in your Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia that everyone will love!
Step 6: Preheat the Oven
While your dough is completing its second rise, preheat the oven to 425°F. This step ensures your focaccia bakes to golden perfection once it’s ready. The warmth will provide an inviting atmosphere for your dough, preparing it for the lush baking process ahead.
Step 7: Add Oil and Jam
After the second rise, drizzle about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the top of the risen dough. Use your fingers to gently poke deep holes all over the surface—this technique helps the dough hold the jam later. Spread your favorite raspberry preserves generously into each hole, creating sweet pockets throughout your Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia.
Step 8: Bake
Carefully place the baking pan into the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes or until the focaccia is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped. The fragrant smell will fill your kitchen, so keep an eye on it for that beautiful baked color!
Step 9: Fill with More Jam
Once baked, remove the focaccia from the oven and use a skewer or chopstick to poke additional holes while it’s still warm. Fill these holes with more raspberry preserves to enhance every bite, making every piece of your Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia deliciously sweet and jammy.
Step 10: Make the Icing
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar with enough whole milk to achieve a drizzle consistency. This glaze will add a lovely sweetness to your focaccia; drizzle it over the top once the focaccia has cooled slightly to create a perfect finishing touch.
What to Serve with Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia
Indulging in this sweet, fluffy treat opens up a world of delightful pairings for the perfect brunch spread.
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Fresh Berries: Lightly sweet and vibrant, fresh berries like strawberries and blueberries offer a refreshing contrast to the rich jam-filled focaccia, balancing flavors beautifully.
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Greek Yogurt: Creamy and tangy, a dollop of Greek yogurt adds protein and a velvety texture that complements the sweetness of the focaccia while keeping it healthy.
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Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of rich coffee bring warmth and depth to your brunch, enhancing each bite of the jam donut focaccia for a comforting experience.
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Sparkling Lemonade: Bright and bubbly, a glass of sparkling lemonade brings zest and a cheerful kick, cutting through the sweetness of the focaccia and invigorating your palate.
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Whipped Cream: Soft and airy, whipped cream adds a luxurious touch, perfect for those who like to go all out with their brunch indulgences—an inviting addition drizzled over or served alongside.
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Chocolate Drizzle: For those with a sweet tooth, drizzling melted chocolate over slices of focaccia offers a decadent twist that harmonizes beautifully with the fruitiness of the jam.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: During warmer months, a scoop of vanilla ice cream served alongside the warm focaccia creates an irresistible dessert that feels like a cozy hug, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings.
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Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea brings soothing flavors that enhance the sweet jam while providing a lightness that balances the overall feast.
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Homemade Lemon Curd: Brightness and creaminess come together with homemade lemon curd, adding a tart yet sweet touch that elevates each bite of the focaccia.
Let these pairings inspire you to create a delightful spread that will have everyone looking forward to brunch!
Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe, allowing your taste buds to explore delightful new flavors!
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Flavored Preserves: Switch raspberry preserves for your favorite jam like strawberry, apricot, or even mixed berry for unique flavor profiles that excite every bite.
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Fruit Toppings: After baking, top with freshly sliced fruits like strawberries or banana to add a burst of freshness and color to your gorgeous focaccia.
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Flavored Glazes: Experiment with glazes by adding a hint of vanilla or citrus zest to the icing for an extra zing that complements the sweetness of the jam.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts such as almonds or pecans on top before baking for a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft dough.
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Whipped Cream Creation: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or creamy yogurt on the side; it adds luxurious creaminess that elevates your brunch experience.
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Herb Infusions: For a savory touch, incorporate finely chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for a unique fusion that complements the sweetness of the jam.
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Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the glaze for those who love a little heat mixed in with their sweet treats.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing the fluffy and airy texture of the focaccia.
By mixing and matching these variations, you’ll create endless possibilities with this delightful Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia. Consider pairing it with my scrumptious Homemade Butter Chicken for a fun meal combo or treat the family to some delicious Jamaican Beef Patties for a full culinary adventure!
How to Store and Freeze Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia
Room Temperature: Store leftover focaccia wrapped in foil or parchment at room temperature for up to 2 days. Enjoy it fresh for the best flavor and texture!
Fridge: If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it wrapped tightly; it will last for up to 4 days but may lose some of its fluffiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the focaccia before glazing it for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, and reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to restore its delightful texture. Enjoy your flavorful #HomemadeJamDonutFocaccia warm!
Make Ahead Options
These Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; after the first rise, cover it tightly and refrigerate to slow down the fermentation. Additionally, you can fill the holes with raspberry preserves before baking if you prefer an even sweeter outcome right from the start. When ready to bake, simply take the dough out of the fridge, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, and then proceed with the second rise as you would normally. This way, you save precious time on busy mornings while still enjoying a fluffy and delicious treat!
Expert Tips for Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia
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Fresh Yeast Matters: Always use fresh active dry yeast to ensure your dough rises beautifully; expired yeast may lead to flat, dense focaccia.
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Water Temperature: Maintain water temperature between 105-115°F; exceeding 115°F can kill the yeast, leading to disappointing results in your Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia.
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Don’t Overfill the Holes: While it’s tempting to add lots of jam, overfilling can cause issues with baking. Keep a moderate amount for optimal results.
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Deep Dimples: Make sure to poke enough deep holes into the dough. They not only hold jam but contribute to the texture by allowing steam to escape during baking.
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Substitution Flexibility: Feel free to experiment with different jams or preserves! Strawberry, apricot, or mixed berry will offer delightful variations for your focaccia.
Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia Recipe FAQs
What type of jam is best for the focaccia?
Absolutely! While raspberry preserves shine in this recipe, you have the flexibility to experiment. Strawberry, apricot, or mixed berry jams offer delightful alternatives. Feel free to mix and match flavors based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand!
How should I store my leftover focaccia?
I recommend wrapping your leftover focaccia tightly in foil or parchment paper. It stays fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days—just make sure to enjoy it soon to savor its fluffy texture! If you need longer-term storage, refrigerate it wrapped tightly for up to 4 days, though it may lose some fluffiness.
Can I freeze the Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia?
Yes! To freeze, I suggest doing so before glazing. Wrap the focaccia tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy it again, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain its lovely texture.
What if my dough doesn’t rise?
If you find your dough not rising, the culprit could be expired yeast or water that’s too hot. A good rule of thumb is to check your yeast’s expiration date and ensure your water is between 105-115°F. If using fresh yeast and correct temperatures, give it a bit more time, as some kitchens can be cooler. Patience is key!
Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes! The Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia contains no nuts in the ingredient list. However, if you are using commercial jams, be sure to check for cross-contamination or added ingredients, as those can vary by brand. Always best to read labels and be cautious when serving anyone with allergies.
Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia: Sweet Fluffy Brunch Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, combine warm water with sugar, whisking until dissolved. Sprinkle yeast and let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a larger bowl, combine bread flour, all-purpose flour, and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Transfer dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan with olive oil. Punch down the risen dough and stretch it into the pan.
- Cover with a towel and let rise again for 30-60 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Drizzle olive oil over risen dough and poke deep holes into the surface. Fill holes with raspberry preserves.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
- Remove from oven, poke additional holes, and fill with more raspberry preserves.
- Whisk confectioners' sugar with whole milk to create the glaze and drizzle over cooled focaccia.
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