How do I know when it is done?

Use the timing as a guide, then check the center with the recipe's doneness cue, such as a clean toothpick, set edges, bubbling filling, or a gently springy top.

Can I change the flavor?

Yes. Keep changes small the first time, such as adding citrus zest, spice, chocolate, nuts, or a simple glaze that matches the recipe.

What should beginners watch most closely?

Measure carefully, avoid overmixing batters or doughs, and let the bake cool long enough before slicing, glazing, or storing.

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Bread Basics

Summer Citrus & Herb Focaccia with Sea Salt and Olive Oil Recipe

Name: Summer Citrus & Herb Focaccia with Sea Salt and Olive Oil Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 3 ½ cups (420g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting; 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp / 7g) active dry yeast; 1 ¼ cups (300ml) warm water (about 100-110°F / 38-43°C); 2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for drizzling; 1 tsp fine sea salt, plus extra for sprinkling; Zest of 1 medium orange; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves; 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves; Flaky sea salt (such as Maldon) for topping

By Beginnerbakes Test KitchenReviewed by Beginnerbakes Editorial TeamPublished Apr 24, 2026 · Updated Jul 11, 2026

Italian-American 45 mins beginner-friendlyeasystep-by-stepno-fusssummer-bakinglow-calorielow-fatminimal-ingredientscomfort-foodsavory-bakespartysnack

Easy Summer Citrus & Herb Focaccia recipe featuring fresh orange and lemon zest, aromatic rosemary and thyme, and crispy flaky sea salt. This beginner-friendly Italian-American bread is perfect for summer snacks, parties, and low-fat savory bakes.

Summer Citrus & Herb Focaccia with Sea Salt and Olive Oil Recipe

Prep 20 min

Cook 25 min

Total 45 min

Servings 8

Difficulty easy

Cuisine Italian-American

Ingredients

Servings 8

3 ½ cups (420g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
1 packet (2 ¼ tsp / 7g) active dry yeast
1 ¼ cups (300ml) warm water (about 100-110°F / 38-43°C)
2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
1 tsp fine sea salt, plus extra for sprinkling
Zest of 1 medium orange
Zest of 1 lemon
1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves
Flaky sea salt (such as Maldon) for topping

BeginnerBakes summer citrus herb focaccia ingredients

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy to activate the yeast.
Add 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 teaspoon fine sea salt to the yeast mixture. Stir gently to combine.
Gradually add the flour, about 1 cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a sticky dough forms.
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add more flour if the dough is too sticky, but keep it slightly tacky.
Lightly oil a large clean bowl and place the dough inside. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
While the dough is rising, prepare the citrus herb topping by mixing the orange zest, lemon zest, rosemary, and thyme in a small bowl.
Once risen, gently punch the dough down and transfer to a greased 9x13-inch baking pan. Use your fingers to press and stretch the dough evenly to fill the pan.
Using your fingertips, make deep dimples all over the dough surface. Drizzle generously with olive oil, then evenly sprinkle the citrus herb mixture on top.
Sprinkle flaky sea salt on the dough to your liking.
Cover loosely with a kitchen towel and let rise for another 20 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).
Bake the focaccia for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly in the pan before slicing into 8 pieces.
Serve warm or at room temperature as a savory snack or party bread.

BeginnerBakes raw citrus herb focaccia dough dimpled before baking

Tips

Equipment Needed

To bake this Summer Citrus & Herb Focaccia, you'll need essential beginner-friendly kitchen tools: Large Mixing Bowl: For activating yeast and mixing dough. Wooden Spoon or Sturdy Spoon: For initial ingredient blending before kneading. Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure precise ingredient amounts for best results.

Ingredient Prep Notes

Flour: Use all-purpose flour for an ideal balance of structure and softness. Up to 50% whole wheat flour can be used for a nuttier flavor, adjusting water as needed. For gluten-free, opt for a gluten-free baking blend with xanthan gum added if missing.

Oven Note

Follow these oven tips to bake perfect Summer Citrus & Herb Focaccia with a tender crumb and golden crust: Preheat Fully: Make sure your oven reaches 425 degrees F (220 degrees C) before baking to ensure even cooking and crust development. Center Rack Placement: Bake on the middle rack for balanced heat distribution and to avoid over or under browning. Minimize Oven Door Opening: Keep door closed during baking to maintain consistent temperature and rise.

Easy Upgrade Ideas

Easy Upgrade Ideas for Summer Citrus & Herb Focaccia Customize and elevate your focaccia with these simple, beginner-friendly enhancements: Additional Flavors: Add thinly sliced garlic or caramelized onions into the dimples before baking for deep savory notes. Cheese Toppings: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or crumbled feta over the herb-citrus topping for salty tang. Seeds & Nuts: Toasted pine nuts, sesame seeds, or sunflower seeds add crunch and nutty aroma.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Summer Citrus & Herb Focaccia with Sea Salt and Olive Oil Recipe ahead?: Yes. Bake it ahead, cool it fully, and store it as directed so the texture stays as close to fresh as possible.
How do I know when it is done?: Use the timing as a guide, then check the center with the recipe's doneness cue, such as a clean toothpick, set edges, bubbling filling, or a gently springy top.
Can I change the flavor?: Yes. Keep changes small the first time, such as adding citrus zest, spice, chocolate, nuts, or a simple glaze that matches the recipe.
What should beginners watch most closely?: Measure carefully, avoid overmixing batters or doughs, and let the bake cool long enough before slicing, glazing, or storing.

Ingredient Replacements

½ cups (420g) all-purpose flour: Use whole wheat pastry flour for a nuttier bake or a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend if needed, checking texture before baking.
packet (2 ¼ tsp / 7g) active dry yeast: Use a similar baking ingredient and adjust moisture gradually so the batter or dough keeps the same texture.
¼ cups (300ml) warm water (about 100-110 degrees F / 38-43 degrees C): Use a similar baking ingredient and adjust moisture gradually so the batter or dough keeps the same texture.
tbsp olive oil: Use melted butter, neutral oil, or a plant-based baking stick in the same amount, knowing that flavor and tenderness may shift slightly.
tsp fine sea salt: Use a similar baking ingredient and adjust moisture gradually so the batter or dough keeps the same texture.

Storage and Reheating

Cool leftovers before storing. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze when the ingredients are freezer-friendly.

Read related air fryer guides and cooking tips.

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Summer Citrus & Herb Focaccia with Sea Salt and Olive Oil Recipe

Recipe Details

Ingredients

Instructions