Print

Crispy Gluten-Free Focaccia Bread Recipe Easy Homemade Herb Olive Oil Bread

crispy gluten-free focaccia bread - featured image

A crispy gluten-free focaccia bread with a golden crust, tender airy inside, and fresh herbal aroma. This easy homemade bread uses simple pantry staples and fresh herbs for a delicious, comforting Italian-style focaccia.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups (180g) gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (e.g., Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 Baking Flour)
  • 1/2 cup (60g) tapioca starch
  • 1 tsp xanthan gum
  • 1 tsp instant yeast (gluten-free)
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 1 cup (240ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
  • 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
  • Flaky sea salt (e.g., Maldon salt) for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast by combining 1 cup warm water, 1 tsp sugar, and 1 tsp instant yeast in a large mixing bowl. Stir gently and let sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy.
  2. Whisk together gluten-free flour, tapioca starch, xanthan gum, and salt in a separate bowl.
  3. Pour dry ingredients into the foamy yeast mixture. Add 1/4 cup olive oil and mix with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula until combined. Dough will be sticky.
  4. Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let rise in a warm spot for 45-60 minutes until puffed.
  5. Drizzle olive oil generously over a 9×13 inch baking pan to coat bottom and sides.
  6. Transfer dough to the prepared pan and gently press/spread evenly with oiled hands.
  7. Cover and let rest for 15-20 minutes. Then dimple the dough all over with fingertips.
  8. Sprinkle chopped rosemary and thyme evenly over the dough. Drizzle 2 tablespoons olive oil and sprinkle flaky sea salt on top.
  9. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake focaccia on center rack for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  10. Remove from oven and cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Use warm water (about 110°F) to activate yeast without killing it. The dough will be sticky—do not add too much flour. Dimpling the dough is essential for classic focaccia texture. Drizzle olive oil generously to keep crust crispy and prevent sticking. Fresh herbs provide best aroma; dried herbs can be used sparingly. For longer storage, freeze slices and reheat in oven or toaster oven to maintain crispness. Avoid microwaving to prevent soggy crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: gluten-free focaccia, gluten-free bread, herb focaccia, olive oil bread, easy gluten-free bread, homemade focaccia, crispy focaccia, gluten-free baking