Description
Hot Honey Cheesy Focaccia Bread
Ingredients
1 lb store-bought pizza dough or homemade focaccia dough
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1–2 jalapeños, thinly sliced
2 tbsp hot honey (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or dried)
1/4 tsp black pepper
Pinch of sea salt
Directions
Prep the Dough: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a baking pan with olive oil. Stretch the pizza dough into the pan, pressing it into an even layer. Let it rest for 10 minutes.
Add Cheese & Toppings: Drizzle the top of the dough with olive oil. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly across the surface. Add the jalapeño slices, thyme, black pepper, and a pinch of sea salt.
Bake: Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the bread is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
Drizzle Hot Honey: Remove the focaccia from the oven and drizzle generously with hot honey while it’s still warm.
Serve: Slice, garnish with extra thyme (optional), and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and cheesy flavors!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6–8 slices
Calories: 280 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare Your Pan: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pour a tablespoon of olive oil into a 9×13 inch baking pan or sheet pan, spreading it evenly to coat the bottom and prevent sticking.
2. Shape the Dough: Place your room-temperature dough into the oiled pan. Using your fingertips, gently press and stretch the dough to fit the pan’s dimensions. If it resists, let it rest for 5 minutes, then continue stretching until even. Allow it to rest for a final 10 minutes.
3. Top Generously: Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the dough. Evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, ensuring coverage to the edges. Artfully arrange the jalapeño slices, then sprinkle with thyme, black pepper, and sea salt.
4. Bake to Perfection: Place the pan in the center of the preheated oven. Bake for 18-22 minutes. The bread is done when the edges are deep golden brown and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and has golden spots.
5. Final Flavor Boost: As soon as the focaccia comes out of the oven, drizzle the hot honey liberally over the entire surface. The residual heat will help it soak in slightly and become wonderfully sticky.
Serving Suggestions
This focaccia is incredibly versatile. Serve it warm as a standout appetizer or party snack, cut into squares or strips. It makes a phenomenal side dish to soups, stews, or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. For a next-level experience, pair a slice with a bowl of creamy tomato soup for dipping. The sweet, spicy, and cheesy flavors also complement grilled chicken or pork dishes perfectly.
How-to Summary
To make Hot Honey Cheesy Focaccia, stretch pizza dough into an oiled pan, let it rest, then top with mozzarella, Parmesan, jalapeños, and herbs. Bake at 425°F for 18-22 minutes until golden and bubbly. Finish with a generous drizzle of hot honey immediately after baking for the signature sweet-spicy kick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make my own hot honey?
Absolutely. Combine 1/2 cup of honey with 1-2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes or a few sliced fresh chilies in a small saucepan. Warm over low heat for 5 minutes, then let it steep until cooled. Strain if desired.
My dough is too elastic and keeps shrinking back. What should I do?
This is normal. Gluten needs time to relax. After your initial stretch, let the dough rest in the pan for 5-10 minutes. The gluten will relax, allowing you to stretch it to the edges easily.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can prep the dough in the pan and add toppings (except honey) up to 2 hours ahead. Cover and refrigerate. Let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before baking as directed.
How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day. Reheat in a 350°F oven or toaster oven for 5-10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid the microwave, as it will make the bread soggy.
What can I use instead of jalapeños?
For less heat, use pickled jalapeños or roasted red peppers. For more heat, try serrano or fresno chilies. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes is also a great alternative.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold dough straight from the fridge, which makes it difficult to stretch.
- Overloading the center with toppings, which can lead to a soggy, undercooked middle.
- Not baking until the bottom and edges are sufficiently golden brown.
- Adding the hot honey before baking, which will cause it to burn and become bitter.
- Cutting the bread immediately after adding the honey, which can make it messy. Let it set for 2-3 minutes.
Conclusion
This Hot Honey Cheesy Focaccia is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that masterfully combines spicy, sweet, and savory elements. With its simple method using store-bought dough and minimal active time, it delivers maximum flavor and impressive results. Whether for a casual snack, party appetizer, or comforting side, this recipe is an easy win that will have everyone asking for more. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious, gooey, and perfectly balanced results.