- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Rise Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18–20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Servings: 8 slices
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
For the Topping
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or dough whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small round baking pan that fits inside your air fryer
- Kitchen towel
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until slightly foamy. If using instant yeast, you can also mix it directly with the flour, but allowing it to bloom helps ensure active fermentation.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a sticky dough forms. Knead by hand for about 8–10 minutes, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5–6 minutes. The dough should become smooth, soft, and elastic.
Step 3: First Rise
Lightly oil a clean bowl and transfer the dough into it. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Grease a round baking pan with olive oil. Transfer the risen dough into the pan and gently stretch it toward the edges. Cover again and allow it to rest for another 15 minutes. This second rise creates an airy texture.
Step 5: Add the Toppings
Drizzle olive oil generously over the dough. Using your fingertips, gently press dimples across the surface. Sprinkle evenly with rosemary, flaky sea salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Step 6: Air Fry the Focaccia
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes.
Place the baking pan into the air fryer basket and cook for 18–20 minutes. Check after 15 minutes. The focaccia is ready when the top is golden brown and the center is fully cooked.
If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil during the final few minutes of cooking.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Remove the pan carefully from the air fryer and allow the focaccia to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, alongside soup, or use it for sandwiches.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Focaccia
- Use fresh yeast for the best rise.
- Avoid adding too much flour, as a slightly sticky dough creates a softer bread.
- Generously oil the pan to prevent sticking and create a crispy crust.
- Dimpling the dough helps the olive oil soak into the bread for extra flavor.
- Every air fryer cooks differently, so begin checking for doneness around the 15-minute mark.
- Fresh rosemary provides the best flavor, but dried rosemary can be substituted if needed.
Flavor Variations
Customize your focaccia with your favorite toppings:
- Cherry tomatoes
- Sliced olives
- Caramelized onions
- Parmesan cheese
- Mozzarella cheese
- Italian seasoning
- Roasted garlic
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Fresh thyme
- Crushed red pepper flakes
Serving Suggestions
Air Fryer Focaccia pairs wonderfully with:
- Tomato soup
- Pasta dishes
- Caesar salad
- Charcuterie boards
- Olive oil and balsamic vinegar
- Grilled chicken
- Italian sandwiches
- Cheese platters
Storage
Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 320°F (160°C) for 3–4 minutes to restore its crisp texture.
To freeze, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Potassium: 75mg
- Calcium: 12mg
- Iron: 2mg