Name: Festive Christmas Tree Focaccia That Will Wow Your Guests
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 145 min
Ingredients: 4 cups Bread Flour (All-purpose flour can be used in a pinch.); 1 packet Yeast (Active dry yeast or instant yeast.); 2 teaspoons Salt (Enhances flavor.); 1.5 cups Water (Room temperature.); 0.25 cups Olive Oil (Substitute with any neutral oil if needed.); 2 tablespoons Fresh Rosemary (Aromatic flavor.); 10 pieces Cherry Tomatoes (Resemble ornaments.); 1 large Pear (Shapes the tree’s base and star.); 6 pieces Pearl Onions (Can use regular onions in smaller pieces.); 0.5 cup Red Onion (Can swap with shallots or omit.)

As I pulled the warm Christmas Tree Focaccia from the oven, the fragrant hints of rosemary and roasted veggies enveloped my kitchen. It’s more than just a festive centerpiece; this unique bread dazzles not only the eyes but also brings comfort with its soft, airy texture and golden crust. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this vegetarian delight allows you to showcase your creativity while managing easy prep. Plus, it’s a fun way to engage everyone in the cooking process—who wouldn’t want to help decorate a delicious tree? So, are you ready to roll up your sleeves and make a show-stopping, edible masterpiece? Let’s dive into this joyful baking adventure!

Why Make Christmas Tree Focaccia?

Visual Delight: This stunning Christmas Tree Focaccia doesn’t just taste great; it’s a feast for the eyes, making it the perfect showstopper for your holiday table.

Easy-to-Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create something spectacular that rivals any bakery’s offerings.

Aromatic Bliss: The warm, fragrant aroma of rosemary fills your kitchen, setting a cheerful holiday mood for family and friends.

Customizable Decorations: Feel free to swap in seasonal toppings or colorful veggies, allowing everyone to get creative in decorating their edible tree—who wouldn’t love that?

Perfect for Gatherings: This vegetarian masterpiece is ideal for sharing, bringing people together to enjoy delicious food and wonderful memories.

Ready to elevate your holiday festivities? This delightful focaccia will not only satisfy your taste buds but also make for a lovely centerpiece, just like my Antojitos Mexican Street recipes!

Christmas Tree Focaccia Ingredients

• Festive and flavorful, the ingredients for this Christmas Tree Focaccia will set your holiday baking apart!

For the Dough

Bread Flour – Provides structure and chewiness; all-purpose flour can be used in a pinch.
Yeast – Essential for leavening; use active dry yeast or instant yeast.
Salt – Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity; don’t skip this crucial ingredient.
Water – Hydrates the dough, which is necessary for gluten development; room temperature is best.
Olive Oil – Adds moisture and richness; substitute with any neutral oil if needed.

For the Toppings

Fresh Rosemary – Provides aromatic flavor; sage can be used for a different twist.
Cherry Tomatoes – Resemble ornaments for decoration; you can swap for small bell peppers for color.
Pear – Shapes the tree’s base and star; an apple works nicely as an alternative.
Pearl Onions – Decorative and sweet; regular onions can be substituted in smaller pieces.
Red Onion – Adds color and flavor; can be swapped with shallots or omitted if desired.

Embrace the holiday spirit with your very own Christmas Tree Focaccia—a delicious centerpiece that’s sure to delight!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Tree Focaccia

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, yeast, and salt, ensuring even distribution. Gradually add in room temperature water and olive oil, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, a sign that the gluten has developed.

Step 2: First Rise
Transfer the kneaded dough to a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This step is crucial for achieving the airy texture characteristic of your Christmas Tree Focaccia.

Step 3: Shape the Focaccia
Once the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a casserole dish or baking tray to prevent sticking. Gently punch down the risen dough and spread it evenly across the dish, using your fingers to create dimples on the surface, enhancing its texture and holding moisture.

Step 4: Decorate the Tree
Now it’s time to decorate your Christmas Tree Focaccia! Arrange fresh rosemary sprigs into a tree shape in the center of the dough. Cut cherry tomatoes and pearl onions into halves and strategically place them to resemble ornaments, adding a vibrant splash of color and festive charm to your creation.

Step 5: Bake the Focaccia
Place the decorated focaccia in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes or until it turns golden brown and crispy on the edges. Keep an eye on the baking process, as oven temperatures can vary. The focaccia is done when you see a beautiful golden hue and can smell its delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen.

Step 6: Finish and Serve
Once baked, remove the Christmas Tree Focaccia from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes. This will make it easier to slice. After cooling slightly, transfer it to a cutting board, slice, and serve warm. Enjoy your festive creation and the cheerful smiles it brings to your holiday gathering!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Tree Focaccia

Room Temperature: Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its freshness and texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the focaccia tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw the focaccia at room temperature, then warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for a crispy crust.

Enjoy Later: Whether you serve it fresh or after storing, this Christmas Tree Focaccia will bring festive joy to your table!

What to Serve with Christmas Tree Focaccia?

Warm up your holiday gatherings by complementing this charming, festive bread with flavors that dazzle the senses.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture creates a delightful contrast to the focaccia’s crispy edges, perfect for soaking up any flavorful sauces.
Roasted Vegetable Medley: A colorful array of seasonal veggies not only enhances the holiday vibe but also adds a nutritious balance to your meal.
Herbed Olive Oil Dip: A fragrant blend of olive oil and fresh herbs pairs beautifully, inviting guests to tear into the focaccia while dipping in this rich accompaniment.
Mixed Greens Salad: Crisp, refreshing greens tossed with a light vinaigrette provide a vibrant counterpoint to the focaccia, making your meal feel light and festive.
Garlic Butter Shrimp: Juicy shrimp sautéed in garlic butter introduce a savory kick that elevates the dish, enticing everyone to indulge.
Sparkling Apple Cider: A bubbly drink like sparkling apple cider not only delights the palate but also serves as a lovely toast to the holiday spirit with every bubbly sip.

Enjoying these complements alongside your Christmas Tree Focaccia will surely elevate your festive meal, creating warmth, joy, and delicious memories!

Expert Tips for Christmas Tree Focaccia

Perfect Dough Rising: Ensure your dough rises in a warm environment; if it’s too cold, it may take longer than expected to double in size.
Gentle Dimpling: When dimpling the dough, use a light touch. Too much pressure can deflate the dough, leading to a denser focaccia.
Bake With Care: Watch the focaccia closely in the last few minutes of baking. Every oven varies, and it’s done when golden brown and fragrant—don’t miss that perfect moment!
Creative Toppings: Feel free to experiment with various vegetables or herbs for a unique flavor and appearance. Just remember to evenly distribute them for a consistent look.
Store Correctly: If you have leftovers, store the focaccia at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage—this ensures you can enjoy your Christmas Tree Focaccia later!

Christmas Tree Focaccia Variations

Feel free to embark on a culinary adventure by customizing your delightful Christmas Tree Focaccia with these tasty twists!

Herb Medley: Swap rosemary for thyme or oregano for a fragrant change. Each herb brings a unique aroma that complements the bread beautifully.
Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle grated parmesan or mozzarella on top before baking for an indulgent, melty treat. The added richness elevates the whole experience!
Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or sliced jalapeños for a dash of heat. This surprise element brings excitement to each bite—perfect for those who love a little spice!
Veggie Rainbow: Replace cherry tomatoes with roasted bell peppers or zucchini for vibrant colors. Let your creative side shine while still retaining the festive spirit!
Focaccia Sandwich: Once baked, slice your focaccia in half and stuff it with your favorite fillings for a delicious sandwich. Think roasted veggies or a layer of creamy cheese!
Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle some balsamic reduction over the focaccia right before serving for a sweet tang. It adds a gourmet touch that’ll make your guests swoon!
Nutty Crunch: Top with sunflower or pumpkin seeds before baking for added texture. The nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the bread’s soft, fluffy interior.
Fruity Twist: Consider using sliced apples or figs in place of pears for a sweet surprise. They not only look gorgeous but also add a fresh twist to your focaccia.

As you experiment, don’t forget that this Christmas Tree Focaccia can also be a canvas for other delicious ideas, like those found in my Antojitos Mexican Street recipes, offering even more festive inspirations! Dive in, and let your creativity shine!

Make Ahead Options

These delicious Christmas Tree Focaccia creations are perfect for meal prep, especially during the bustling holiday season! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix and follow the first rise before refrigerating it in a covered bowl. When you’re ready to bake, take it out and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to rewarm. After that, shape, decorate, and bake as directed. This method not only saves time but also ensures your focaccia is just as delicious as if made fresh. The key to maintaining quality is to ensure the dough is well-covered in the fridge to prevent it from drying out. Enjoy the ease of holiday entertaining with this festive centerpiece!

Christmas Tree Focaccia Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right bread flour for my focaccia?
Absolutely! When selecting bread flour, look for a high-protein content (around 12-14%) as this helps create a chewy texture in your focaccia. Avoid flour labeled as cake or pastry flour, as they are lower in protein and won’t give you that perfect rise. For a similar texture, you can use all-purpose flour if you’re in a pinch, but bread flour will yield the most satisfying results in your Christmas Tree Focaccia.

How should I store leftover focaccia?
Very! For up to 2 days, store your leftover Christmas Tree Focaccia at room temperature in an airtight container to keep it soft and fresh. If you want to save it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. This way, it can last up to 3 months in the freezer! Just remember to thaw at room temperature before reheating.

Can I freeze Christmas Tree Focaccia? If so, how?
Absolutely! Freezing this delightful focaccia is easy. First, allow it to cool completely after baking. Wrap the focaccia tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air can get in, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. Label it with the date and pop it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, transfer it to the fridge overnight to thaw, then reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for that fresh-baked taste.

What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
Very! If your dough isn’t rising, check to see if your yeast is still active. If you’ve recently purchased it, sprinkle a teaspoon into warm water with a pinch of sugar; if it bubbles and foams after 5-10 minutes, it’s good to use! Also, ensure your rising environment is warm; if it’s too chilly, it might need more time. You can also place it in your oven with just the light on or near a warm stovetop to encourage rising.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! Since this Christmas Tree Focaccia contains flour and yeast, those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease should avoid it. You can try using gluten-free flour blends, but be sure to consult the blend instructions for appropriate ratios and hydration. Additionally, for allergy concerns, ensure to check vegetable labels for possible cross-contamination and be cautious with what you deem as decorations, especially if serving to guests with food allergies. Always feel free to customize the toppings to suit your guests’ preferences!

Can pets eat focaccia?
Very! While it may be tempting to share, it’s best not to let your pets taste the Christmas Tree Focaccia. Ingredients like garlic or onions (if used in any toppings) can be harmful to pets. If you’d like to treat your furry friends, you could set aside a small batch of dough without added ingredients, but always check with your veterinarian before introducing any new food.