Name: Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia: Sweet Brunch Delight
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 202 min
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups Warm Water (Between 105-115°F); 2 tsp Sugar (Brown sugar can deepen the flavor); 1 packet Active Dry Yeast (Ensure it bubbles during proofing); 2 cups Bread Flour (High-protein for gluten development); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can use more bread flour if out); 2 tsp Salt; 6 tbsp Olive Oil (Divided); 1 jar Raspberry Preserves (Thick preserve to avoid sogginess); 2 cups Confectioners' Sugar; 2-4 tbsp Whole Milk (Almond or oat milk for plant-based option)

As I stood in my kitchen, flour dusting the countertops and the aroma of freshly baking bread filling the air, a little spark of creativity took over. Why not marry the classic softness of focaccia with the delightful sweetness of a jam-filled donut? Enter my Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia, a sweet twist that elevates your breakfast game to blissful new heights. This recipe isn’t just about indulgence; it offers an easy-to-follow method that yields bakery-quality results right in your own home. Perfect for a cozy brunch with friends or a lazy Sunday morning treat, this sweet bread promises to bring smiles all around. Are you ready to experience this delightful fusion that will have everyone asking for seconds?

Why Try Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia?

Irresistible Flavor: The pairing of sweet jam with the fluffy texture of focaccia creates an unforgettable taste that dances on your palate.

Effortless Preparation: With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, anyone can whip up this delightful treat, no professional baking skills required!

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a lazy weekend brunch or a festive gathering, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that accommodates everyone’s cravings.

Customization Galore: Feel free to experiment with your favorite jams or even add a citrus zest for a refreshing twist, just like in my delightful Sugar Baked Donuts!

Time-Saving: The dough can easily be prepared ahead of time, letting you enjoy baked goodness without the last-minute rush.

Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia Ingredients

For the Dough

Warm Water (1 3/4 cups) – This is crucial for activating the yeast, so ensure it’s between 105-115°F.
Sugar (2 tsp) – It feeds the yeast for a good rise and adds just enough sweetness; brown sugar can deepen the flavor.
Active Dry Yeast (1 packet) – This leavening agent is essential for dough rising; make sure it bubbles during proofing for the best results.
Bread Flour (2 cups) – Provides the structure and chewiness you want in your focaccia; a high-protein content is key for gluten development.
All-Purpose Flour (2 cups) – Its balance contributes to a soft dough; if you’re out, you can use more bread flour, but be mindful of texture changes.
Salt (2 tsp) – Enhances flavor and strengthens the gluten structure for your focaccia.
Olive Oil (6 tbsp, divided) – Adds moisture and richness; can swap for melted butter if you fancy a different flavor.

For the Filling

Raspberry Preserves (1 jar) – This delightful filling is the star of your sweet focaccia; a thick preserve will help avoid sogginess.

For the Glaze

Confectioners’ Sugar (2 cups) – It creates the sweet icing that finishes off your focaccia beautifully.
Whole Milk (2-4 tbsp) – Adjust the consistency of your icing; almond milk or oat milk works perfectly for a plant-based option.

With these simple ingredients, your homemade jam donut focaccia will be a hit at breakfast or brunch!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia

Step 1: Prepare Yeast Mixture
In a stand mixer bowl, combine 1 ¾ cups of warm water with 2 teaspoons of sugar, whisking until dissolved. Sprinkle in 1 packet of active dry yeast and allow it to sit undisturbed for about 5 minutes, or until bubbly and frothy, indicating the yeast is adequately activated and ready to work its magic in your homemade jam donut focaccia.

Step 2: Mix Dough
Attach a dough hook to your stand mixer and gradually add in 2 cups of bread flour, 2 cups of all-purpose flour, and 2 teaspoons of salt to the yeast mixture. Mix on low until a sticky dough forms, then increase speed to medium for about 3-4 minutes until dough is smooth and elastic, giving your focaccia a lovely chewy texture.

Step 3: First Rise
Lightly coat a large bowl with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring the entire surface is greased. Carefully transfer the dough into the bowl, turning it once to coat the top with oil. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and place in a warm area to rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size—look for a fluffy, puffy appearance.

Step 4: Prepare Baking Pan
While the dough rises, prepare your baking pan. Grease a 9×13 metal baking pan with the remaining olive oil, ensuring it’s evenly coated to prevent your homemade jam donut focaccia from sticking. This will help achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust when you bake it.

Step 5: Form Dough
Once the dough has risen, gently transfer it to the greased pan, folding it over itself a few times to release any air bubbles. Flatten it into an even layer, ensuring it reaches the edges of the pan. Cover the pan again and let it rise for an additional hour in a warm place until it has puffed up again.

Step 6: Preheat Oven
As the dough rises for the second time, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that your homemade jam donut focaccia will start baking in a hot environment, giving it that perfect crust while the inside remains soft and airy.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking
After the second rise, use your fingers to poke deep holes in the dough, making sure they’re well spaced. Spread raspberry preserves evenly across the surface of the dough, making sure to fill the holes but avoiding excess on top to prevent sogginess. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown and fragrant.

Step 8: Fill with Jam
After baking, remove the focaccia from the oven and poke additional holes to fill them with more raspberry preserves. This will allow the sweet jam to seep into the fluffy bread, creating delightful pockets of flavor throughout your homemade jam donut focaccia.

Step 9: Make Icing
In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of confectioners’ sugar with 2-4 tablespoons of whole milk, blending until smooth and drizzleable. Once the focaccia has slightly cooled, pour the icing over the top to create a sweet glaze that enhances both the flavor and presentation of your delicious creation.

Step 10: Serve
Carefully cut the homemade jam donut focaccia into squares and serve while slightly warm. This treat is perfect for breakfast or brunch, leaving everyone eager to savor the delightful combination of soft bread and sweet jam.

What to Serve with Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia?

Indulge in a sweet brunch experience that elevates your breakfast table with vibrant flavors and comforting textures.

Coffee Delight: An aromatic cup of coffee beautifully complements the sweet focaccia, enhancing the flavors of raspberry preserves in each bite.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Crisp, seasonal fruits like berries and melons add a refreshing contrast, balancing the sweetness of the jam with their juicy texture.
Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of creamy, lightly sweetened whipped cream can elevate your focaccia to dessert status, creating a luxurious treat enjoyed by everyone.
Sparkling Lemonade: Serve with a chilled glass of sparkling lemonade for a bubbly, citrusy contrast that cuts through the richness of the bread.
Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layered with honey and nuts, this creamy side offers a nice contrast in both flavor and texture, rounding out a well-balanced meal.
Simple Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a savory counterpoint, perfect for balancing out the richness of the focaccia.

Embrace the blissful experience of pairing these delightful options, ensuring a feast that warms the heart and satisfies every craving!

Make Ahead Options

These Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough and let it rise up to 24 hours in advance by placing it in the refrigerator after the first rise; this enhances the flavor profile. Additionally, you can prepare the raspberry preserves filling and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, allow the dough to come to room temperature, proceed with the second rise, and then bake as directed. Rest assured, your focaccia will turn out just as delicious and fluffy, making those busy mornings a breeze!

Variations & Substitutions for Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia

Feel free to get creative and tailor this delightful recipe to your taste buds with these fun and easy suggestions!

Fruit Variations: Try switching raspberry preserves for strawberry or blueberry jam for a twist on classic flavors. Each fruit brings its own unique sweetness and can be a fun way to celebrate seasonal ingredients.
Citrus Zest: Add grated lemon or orange zest into the dough for a refreshing citrus kick. This small twist enhances the aroma and brings bright notes, elevating each bite!
Gluten-Free: Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour. Your focaccia will still rise and taste delightful, ensuring everyone can join in on the fun.
Plant-Based: Substitute olive oil with coconut oil for a light, tropical flavor. Also, replace whole milk in your glaze with almond milk to keep it dairy-free while maintaining its creamy texture.
Sweet Spice: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a cozy, spiced profile. These spices will warm the flavors, making your focaccia feel even more inviting.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts like almonds or pecans on top before baking for added texture and a lovely crunch that complements the softness of the bread.
Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Drizzle melted chocolate ganache over your baked focaccia instead of icing for a decadent treat. Chocolate and jam create a sweet symphony that’s hard to resist!

Consider trying this wonderful Sugar Baked Donuts recipe when you’re craving something sweet and fluffy, or explore different sweet breads this versatile combination can inspire!

How to Store and Freeze Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia

Room Temperature: Keep covered at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and softness.

Fridge: While it’s not recommended to refrigerate baked goods due to potential dryness, if needed, wrap tightly and store for up to 3 days.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the focaccia wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating: To refresh, reheat slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, enhancing that delightful homemade jam donut focaccia texture.

Expert Tips for Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia

Perfect Yeast Activation: Always check the water temperature; if it’s above 115°F, you risk killing your yeast, which is crucial for rising.
Allow for Risen Dough: Patience is key! Let the dough double in size during rising; interrupting this can lead to dense focaccia instead of a fluffy texture.
Jam Layering: When adding jam, ensure you use sparingly and create deep pockets. This prevents overflow and maintains the bread’s structural integrity.
Glazing After Cooling: Wait until the focaccia cools slightly before glazing with icing. This helps the glaze adhere better and keeps it from sliding off.
Store Wisely: This homemade jam donut focaccia is best enjoyed fresh but can be covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or frozen for a month without sacrificing taste.

Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia Recipe FAQs

What type of jam should I use for the filling?
Absolutely, you can use any thick, high-quality jam you prefer! Raspberry preserves are popular for their sweet-tart flavor, but feel free to experiment with strawberry, apricot, or even lemon curd. Just ensure the jam is thick to prevent sogginess in your homemade jam donut focaccia.

How do I store leftover focaccia?
To keep your homemade jam donut focaccia fresh, cover it tightly at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’ve got more than that left over and want to save it longer, you can freeze it wrapped in plastic wrap, then foil, for up to 1 month. Just let it thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!

Can I freeze my focaccia?
Yes, you can! Wrap your cooled homemade jam donut focaccia tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to eat, just let it thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
Very often, this can happen due to the yeast being too old or the water being too hot. Always check that your yeast is fresh and active; it should bubble after 5-10 minutes in warm (not hotter than 115°F) water with sugar. If it still doesn’t rise, try placing it in a warmer spot and allow it some extra time—sometimes dough just needs a little more love!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
While this homemade jam donut focaccia is generally suitable for most diets, always check the ingredients for allergies, especially from the preserves and flour. To make it dairy-free, use plant-based milk for glazing, and if you’re concerned about gluten, there are gluten-free bread flour options available. Just ensure the substitutions are suitable for your specific dietary needs!