Looking for the ultimate sweet treat that combines the fluffy goodness of focaccia with the warm, spiced goodness of cinnamon rolls? This cinnamon roll focaccia is the answer! Picture soft, pillowy dough, swirled with cinnamon and brown sugar, topped with a buttery glaze – it’s the best of both worlds. Whether you’re serving it at breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, and you can even add a creative twist to make it your own. Get ready to indulge in a dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious – all in one gorgeous, golden loaf!
Table of Contents
Recipe Overview
This cinnamon roll focaccia combines the beloved flavors of cinnamon rolls with the airy, soft texture of focaccia bread. It features a dough that rises to perfection, creating a fluffy base that’s ideal for wrapping in a rich cinnamon-sugar filling. Once baked, it’s golden and slightly crisp on the outside while remaining tender and soft on the inside. Topped with a simple glaze, this recipe makes for a show-stopping dessert or an indulgent breakfast treat. You can even experiment by adding nuts or dried fruits to the filling, making this recipe versatile and easily customizable. Whether you’re a beginner baker or an experienced pro, you’ll love how easy and rewarding this recipe is to make!
Cinnamon Roll Focaccia: Soft, Sweet, and Perfectly Baked
Ingredients
- 3 cups bread flour – Provides structure and a chewy texture for the dough
- 1 packet dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons) – Helps the dough rise for a fluffy consistency.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness of the filling and enhances the dough's flavor.
- 1 cup warm water – Hydrates the flour to create the dough.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter – Adds richness and prevents sticking.
- ½ cup dark brown sugar – Sweetens the cinnamon filling with a caramel-like flavor.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – Gives the focaccia its signature spiced flavor.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for glaze) – Adds a silky finish to the baked focaccia.
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine bread flour, dry yeast, and salt. Mix them together to evenly distribute the ingredients. Gradually add warm water and stir until a dough begins to form. Once combined, add unsalted butter and knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the cinnamon filling: In a small bowl, combine dark brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Stir until well-mixed. Set this mixture aside for later use.
- Shape the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle (approximately 12×8 inches). Spread unsalted butter (softened) evenlyacross the surface of the dough. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture generously over the butter.
- Roll and slice: Carefully roll the dough up, starting from one of the longer sides, creating a tight log. Once rolled, slice the dough into 8-10 pieces, depending on your preferred portion size.
- Prepare the focaccia pan: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper. Arrange the cinnamon roll slices in the dish, placing them side by side with a little space between each piece. The slices should touch each other slightly, as they will rise and expand while baking.
- Second rise:Cover the pan with a cloth and allow the dough torise for another 30 minutes, or until the rolls have puffed up and connected.
- Bake:Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamonroll focaccia for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cookedthrough
- Glaze and serve: While the focaccia bakes, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Once the focaccia is out of the oven, brush the warm focaccia with the melted butter for a shiny finish. Serve warm, and enjoy the delightful combination of soft, cinnamon-swirled bread with a rich, buttery glaze.
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Cinnamon Roll Focaccia
- Don’t Rush the Rise: Patience is key when making dough, especially with this cinnamon roll focaccia. Don’t rush the rise; allow the dough plenty of time to rise, especially during the first rise. A slow rise helps develop the flavor and texture, ensuring a light, fluffy focaccia. The longer it rises, the better the dough will develop its structure and flavor, giving your cinnamon roll focaccia that bakery-quality taste.
- Use Fresh Yeast: For the perfect cinnamon roll focaccia, always use fresh, active yeast. Fresh yeast ensures that the dough rises properly and gives the bread the right texture. Expired yeast can lead to a dense or under-risen dough, which will affect the overall outcome. Be sure to check the expiration date on your yeast before starting this recipe to get that perfect fluffy texture in your cinnamon roll focaccia.
- Roll Evenly: When rolling out the dough for your cinnamon roll focaccia, aim to keep the thickness consistent across the entire surface. An even roll ensures an even rise and allows the cinnamon-sugar filling to be distributed uniformly. An uneven roll could cause certain parts of your focaccia to rise more than others, leading to an inconsistent texture and flavor in your cinnamon roll focaccia.
- Customize Your Filling: One of the best things about making cinnamon roll focaccia is that you can customize the filling to suit your preferences. Feel free to get creative with your filling! Add chopped nuts, raisins, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce before baking for a twist on the classic cinnamon flavor. Personalizing the filling is a fun way to make this cinnamon roll focaccia truly your own.
- Glaze Options: The glaze is what truly elevates your cinnamon roll focaccia. For a richer glaze, mix powdered sugar with a little milk or cream to create a sweeter topping. Alternatively, you can add a dash of vanilla extract or even some maple syrup for extra flavor. The glaze adds a shiny finish to your focaccia and makes it extra indulgent, so don’t skip this step when making your cinnamon roll focaccia!
- Don’t Over-Bake: When baking your cinnamon roll focaccia, keep an eye on it. You don’t want it to turn too brown too quickly, as over-baking can dry out the focaccia and cause it to lose its soft, fluffy texture. If you notice it getting too dark, cover it loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking. This trick ensures that your cinnamon roll focaccia stays golden brown on the outside while remaining soft and tender on the inside.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to make the perfect cinnamon roll focaccia every time. Don’t rush the process, and you’ll be rewarded with a mouthwatering, fluffy, and flavorful treat!
Why Cinnamon Roll Focaccia is a Must-Have Dish
The cinnamon roll focaccia is an absolute must-try for anyone who loves the comforting, sweet flavors of cinnamon rolls but is looking for something a little more unique and fun. This dish brings together the best of both worlds: the soft, fluffy texture of focaccia bread paired with a sweet, spiced cinnamon filling. It creates a flavor profile that is both familiar and exciting, offering a delicious twist on traditional cinnamon rolls. What makes this dish even more special is its versatility—whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert, the cinnamon roll focaccia is the perfect choice.
Its versatility doesn’t stop there; it’s also a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or just a cozy treat at home. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—using just a handful of basic ingredients, you can create a bakery-quality treat that tastes like it’s been crafted with love. The warm, cinnamon aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes is simply irresistible and will instantly make anyone who steps through your door want a slice.
The cinnamon roll focaccia also offers endless customization options, allowing you to add your favorite mix-ins. Whether it’s nuts, dried fruits, or even a decadent cream cheese frosting on top, you can make this dish your own. This makes it the perfect recipe for anyone who loves both the classic flavors of cinnamon rolls and the exciting possibilities of an Italian-inspired focaccia bread.
Variations and Customizations of cinnamon roll focaccia
While this cinnamon roll focaccia is already amazing on its own, there are plenty of ways to make it even more personalized. Here are a few ideas to take your focaccia to the next level:
- Add Nutty Delight:
- If you love a bit of crunch with your sweet treat, try adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the cinnamon-sugar filling. These nuts add a lovely texture and a toasted, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon.
- Fruit Add-ins:
- For a fruity twist, add dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or chopped apples to the filling. You can also use fresh fruits like berries, but make sure to reduce the amount of sugar so it doesn’t get too sweet.
- Frosting Galore:
- For an extra indulgent treat, top your cinnamon roll focaccia with a rich cream cheese frosting. Simply mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla for a decadent topping that will elevate the dish to dessert status.
- Spices and Flavors:
- Experiment with different spices to complement the cinnamon. Nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger can give the focaccia a unique twist. A dash of vanilla extract or orange zest in the dough or filling can add an extra layer of flavor.
- Vegan or Dairy-Free:
- If you’re following a vegan or dairy-free diet, it’s easy to substitute ingredients. Use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and swap out the eggs for an egg replacer to make a delicious vegan cinnamon roll focaccia.
- Caramel Drizzle:
- For a truly decadent touch, drizzle homemade caramel sauce over the focaccia after baking. The buttery, sweet flavor complements the cinnamon perfectly and makes the dish irresistible.
Nutritional Information for Cinnamon Roll Focaccia
Understanding the nutritional value of the cinnamon roll focaccia can help you enjoy it in moderation, especially when you’re savoring this decadent treat. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving, assuming you cut the focaccia into 10 slices:
- Calories: 300-350 per slice
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 4g
- Vitamin A: 6% of Daily Value
- Calcium: 2% of Daily Value
- Iron: 10% of Daily Value
This nutritional profile provides a rich, sweet treat that combines carbohydrates for energy with fat for a satisfying texture. While it’s not a low-calorie snack, the cinnamon roll focaccia can be enjoyed as an occasional indulgence. It’s the perfect dessert to share at a family gathering or a special breakfast treat that’s well worth the calories. If you’re looking to make it healthier, consider experimenting with whole wheat flour, reducing the sugar, or using a sugar substitute. Keep in mind that it’s always important to enjoy these rich, comforting treats in balance with your overall diet.
Serving Ideas for Cinnamon Roll Focaccia
To make your cinnamon roll focaccia even more delightful, here are some serving ideas to pair it with:
- Fresh Coffee or Tea:
- A hot cup of coffee or a calming herbal tea, such as chamomile or chai, complements the sweetness of the focaccia perfectly. It’s a great pairing for a cozy breakfast or brunch.
- Serve with Fruit:
- Fresh seasonal fruits like berries, apples, or citrus slices can brighten up the plate and provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, sweet focaccia.
- Ice Cream or Whipped Cream:
- For a dessert twist, top your cinnamon roll focaccia with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The cold, creamy texture is a perfect contrast to the warm, cinnamon-filled bread.
- Nut Butter Spread:
- Spread a thin layer of peanut butter, almond butter, or even Nutella on the focaccia for a savory-sweet balance that will take your flavor experience to new heights.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle:
- Drizzle a bit of maple syrup on top for an added sweetness. The syrup enhances the cinnamon flavor and adds a touch of warmth.
- Serve as a Brunch Centerpiece:
- If you’re hosting brunch, cut the focaccia into smaller squares and serve them on a large platter alongside a selection of cheeses, fresh fruits, and a light salad. It adds a warm, comforting element to a fresh spread.
Whether you’re enjoying it as a simple snack or an indulgent dessert, these serving ideas will elevate your cinnamon roll focaccia and make every bite even more satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Roll Focaccia
- Can I make cinnamon roll focaccia ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the day before and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before baking, and you’ll have freshly baked cinnamon roll focaccia in no time!
- Can I freeze cinnamon roll focaccia?
- Yes, you can freeze the baked focaccia. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature and warm it in the oven.
- Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
- While bread flour is ideal for this recipe due to its higher protein content, you can use all-purpose flour in a pinch. However, the texture may be slightly less chewy, and the dough might not rise as much.
- What if I don’t have dry yeast?
- If you don’t have dry yeast, you can use fresh yeast or instant yeast, but be sure to adjust the quantity accordingly. Fresh yeast should be crumbled and dissolved in water, while instant yeast can be mixed directly into the dry ingredients.
- How do I store cinnamon roll focaccia?
- Store leftover cinnamon roll focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it (as mentioned above) to keep it fresh for weeks.
- Can I add more cinnamon to the filling?
- Absolutely! If you’re a cinnamon lover, feel free to increase the amount of cinnamon in the filling. Just be mindful not to overpower the dough, as it should still have a balanced flavor.
Conclusion
Ready to bake up something spectacular? This cinnamon roll focaccia is the perfect combination of fluffy bread, sweet cinnamon goodness, and a golden, buttery finish – sure to impress everyone who tries it. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because you deserve something delicious, this recipe will make your kitchen smell amazing. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, get baking, and treat yourself to a slice of heaven. And hey, if you eat it all by yourself, no judgment here – it’s just too good to share!
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