Sticky Pecan Focaccia

Sticky Pecan Focaccia

Sticky Pecan Focaccia is a delightful twist on the classic Italian bread. With its airy texture and rich flavors, this sweet treat is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. The addition of crunchy pecans and a sticky brown sugar topping makes it an irresistible choice for any occasion.

Why Make This Recipe

If you love bread and nuts, Sticky Pecan Focaccia is a great recipe to try. It combines the soft, comforting feel of homemade focaccia with the sweet, nutty flavor of pecans. Plus, it’s simple to make and impresses everyone with its beautiful appearance and delicious taste. It’s a fun way to enjoy baking and is perfect for sharing with family and friends.

How to Make Sticky Pecan Focaccia

Ingredients

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
• ⅓ cup olive oil, plus extra for greasing
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ cup pecans, chopped
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 4 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

1. Start by dissolving the active dry yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar in 1 cup of warm water. Let it bloom for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and remaining sugar. Add the yeast mixture and ⅓ cup of olive oil. Stir until a sticky dough forms.
3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead gently for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
4. Grease a baking sheet or focaccia pan generously with oil. Transfer the risen dough and gently stretch it to fit the pan. Use your fingertips to make classic dimples on the surface.
5. Cover again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
6. While the dough rises, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and bubbly. Remove from heat and mix in the chopped pecans.
7. Bake the focaccia base in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes or until it is golden.
8. Remove the focaccia from the oven and spoon the sticky pecan mixture over the hot bread. Return it to the oven for an additional 8-10 minutes until the topping sets.
9. Allow the Sticky Pecan Focaccia to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing to let the topping firm up.

How to Serve Sticky Pecan Focaccia

This Sticky Pecan Focaccia is best enjoyed warm or at room temperature. You can serve it as is, or with a side of cream cheese or whipped butter for an extra special touch. It also pairs well with coffee or tea, making it a great choice for brunch.

How to Store Sticky Pecan Focaccia

To store your Sticky Pecan Focaccia, place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for longer, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

Tips to Make Sticky Pecan Focaccia

• Measure your ingredients carefully for the best results.
• Let the dough rise in a warm area to speed up the process.
• If you find the dough too sticky, dust your hands and the surface with a little extra flour while kneading.
• Feel free to adjust the amount of pecans based on your preference.

Variation

You can customize your Sticky Pecan Focaccia by adding different nuts or even chocolate chips to the topping. A sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking can add a nice contrast to the sweetness.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A1: Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but it may give a denser texture. You might want to mix it with some all-purpose flour for lighter bread.

Q2: How can I know when the dough has risen enough?
A2: The dough should double in size. You can gently press it with your finger; if the indentation remains, it’s ready.

Q3: What can I do if I don’t have pecans?
A3: You can substitute with other nuts like walnuts or almonds, or even omit them entirely for a simpler focaccia.

Enjoy making and sharing your Sticky Pecan Focaccia!