If you have yet to try a truly unforgettable twist on classic comfort bread, this Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread Recipe is bound to become your new obsession. Imagine soft, airy focaccia infused with tangy dill pickles, savory garlic, and melted mozzarella, all tied together with a bright, zesty garlic sauce that packs a punch. It’s not just focaccia; it’s a flavor adventure that balances rich textures with refreshing zing. Whether you’re looking for a standout side or a fascinating snack, this recipe offers a spectacularly unique bread experience that will wow your friends and family every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread Recipe relies on simple ingredients that come together beautifully to create complex layers of flavor and mouthwatering texture. Each element has a purpose, from the yeast that provides life to the dough, to the dill pickles that offer that signature tang, and the mozzarella cheese that adds a gooey, rich finish.
- Warm water (1 cup): Ideal temperature helps activate the yeast for a perfect rise.
- Active dry yeast (1 teaspoon): The essential leavening agent that makes the bread fluffy.
- Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons): Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness.
- Extra virgin olive oil (â…“ cup): Provides moisture, richness, and that classic focaccia flavor.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Adds a herby, aromatic depth to the dough.
- Garlic, minced (2 teaspoons total): Infuses every bite with bold savory notes.
- Kosher salt (1½ teaspoons total): Balances flavors and enhances the dough’s texture.
- All-purpose flour (2½ cups): The structure-builder for the perfect chewy crumb.
- Sour cream (¾ cup): Adds moisture and tenderness to the dough.
- Mayonnaise (¼ cup): Provides richness and a slight tang, helping keep the bread soft.
- Whole milk (2 tablespoons): Softens the dough and adds creaminess.
- Lemon juice (1 teaspoon): Brightens the garlic sauce and complements the dill flavor.
- Dill weed (½ teaspoon): The star herb that echoes throughout the bread.
- Ground black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds subtle warmth and complexity.
- Dill pickle slices (25-30 slices): The unmistakable tangy centerpiece of the recipe.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups): Melts beautifully, giving the focaccia a delightful gooey topping.
- Fresh dill (for garnish): Fresh, fragrant, and visually appealing finishing touch.
How to Make Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread Recipe
Step 1: Make the Dough
Start by activating your yeast in warm water mixed with sugar—watch for that foamy texture that signals your dough will rise beautifully. Next, blend olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic, and salt into a fragrant mixture, then add half of this to the yeast. Incorporate the flour carefully for a sticky yet manageable dough, then let it rest and rise doubled in size in a greased bowl. This resting allows the dough to develop its signature light and airy texture, perfect for focaccia’s characteristic softness.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Sauce
While the dough rises, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, milk, lemon juice, minced garlic, dill weed, salt, and black pepper. This sauce is what makes this focaccia extraordinary, infusing every bite with creamy, tangy, and herbaceous notes. Trust me, this step transforms a simple bread into something utterly crave-worthy.
Step 3: Preheat Oven and Prepare Skillet
Get your oven roaring at 450°F (230°C) to ensure a golden, crisp crust. Meanwhile, pour the remaining olive oil mixture into a 12-inch cast-iron skillet and brush it along the bottom and sides. This not only prevents sticking but gives the focaccia its irresistible crispy edges that contrast the soft interior.
Step 4: Assemble Focaccia
Press the risen dough into the skillet, stretching it to all edges. Then use your fingers to create those iconic dimples—this is where the garlic sauce settles and the flavor really seeps in. Spread your garlic sauce evenly over the dough, then adorn generously with dill pickle slices and finish with a hearty sprinkle of shredded mozzarella. These layers of topping promise bursts of flavor with every bite.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 22 to 25 minutes or until the crust turns beautiful golden brown and the cheese becomes bubbly and slightly browned. The heat melts everything into a joyful marriage of textures and tastes—crispy crust, soft dough, tangy pickles, and melted cheesy goodness.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with fresh dill for a bright color and fresh herby aroma that complements the rich toppings perfectly. Now, your Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread Recipe is ready to wow at the table.
How to Serve Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh dill as a final touch elevates your focaccia visually and aromatically. You might also sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt or a little cracked black pepper to enhance the flavors right before serving.
Side Dishes
This focaccia pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides such as crisp garden salads, creamy coleslaw, or even chilled cucumber salad. It also complements hearty soups and stews, making it a versatile star in any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the focaccia into small squares for a party platter or serve alongside charcuterie and a variety of dips. You could also turn slices into scrumptious sandwiches with smoked meats or roasted veggies for a fun lunch twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover focaccia wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh and soft for up to two days, making for an excellent snack or breakfast the following day.
Freezing
You can freeze this focaccia by wrapping it well in foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. It will keep for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore that crispy crust and gooey cheese. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the bread soggy and less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use pickle juice in the dough?
While pickle juice is flavorful, it’s not recommended to substitute it for water in the dough as the acidity could affect yeast activation and dough rise. Instead, stick with the recipe’s warm water to ensure perfect results.
Is it possible to use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella melts beautifully, you can experiment with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp gouda for a different but equally delicious twist.
Can I make this focaccia without mayonnaise?
Mayonnaise adds richness and moisture, but if you prefer to skip it, try substituting with an equal amount of sour cream or Greek yogurt. This will keep your focaccia soft and flavorful.
How do I know when the focaccia dough has risen enough?
The dough should roughly double in size, appearing puffy and airy. A good test is to gently press the surface with your finger—if the indentation remains, it’s ready to move to the next step.
Can I add other herbs or seasonings?
Yes! Dill is the star here, but you can add fresh rosemary, thyme, or chives to the dough or garlic sauce for extra layers of flavor—just keep the balance so you don’t overpower the delightful pickle tang.
Final Thoughts
This Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread Recipe is a delightful surprise that brings a playful and irresistible twist to traditional focaccia. Its combination of tangy pickles, creamy garlic sauce, and melty cheese promises to captivate anyone lucky enough to try it. So, embrace the fun and flavor, and make this recipe your next baking adventure—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread is a savory and tangy twist on classic focaccia, infused with Italian seasoning, garlic, and topped generously with dill pickle slices and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect as a flavorful appetizer or snack, it boasts a soft, airy crumb with a delightful crispy crust, complemented by a creamy garlic sauce and fresh dill garnish.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water (105°F to 115°F)
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- â…“ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
Garlic Sauce Ingredients
- ¾ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon dill weed
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Toppings
- 25–30 dill pickle slices
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh dill, roughly chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Stir gently and let the mixture rest for 5 minutes to activate the yeast. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix together the extra virgin olive oil, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, and kosher salt. Pour half of this oil mixture into the yeast mixture, then add the all-purpose flour and stir until a dough forms. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare the garlic sauce: In a medium bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, whole milk, lemon juice, minced garlic, dill weed, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Stir thoroughly until the sauce is smooth and well mixed.
- Preheat oven and prepare skillet: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Using a pastry brush, coat the bottom and sides of a 12-inch cast-iron skillet with the remaining half of the olive oil mixture prepared earlier.
- Assemble focaccia: Transfer the risen dough into the prepared skillet. Press the dough evenly to the edges of the skillet and use your fingers to create dimples across the surface of the dough. Evenly spread the prepared garlic sauce over the surface. Arrange the dill pickle slices evenly on top, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over everything.
- Bake: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 22 to 25 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned.
- Serve: Remove the focaccia from the oven and garnish with roughly chopped fresh dill before slicing and serving warm.
Notes
- Ensure the water is warm but not hot to properly activate the yeast.
- If you don’t have a cast-iron skillet, a similarly sized oven-proof baking dish can be used.
- You can substitute mozzarella with another mild melting cheese if preferred.
- For a crispier crust, allow the focaccia to cool slightly in the skillet before removing.
- Store leftovers wrapped in foil at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
