Name: Sweet Raspberry Jam Focaccia with Powdered Sugar Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 2 h 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cup warm water, 105-115°F; 2 tsp sugar; 1 packet active dry yeast; 2 cups bread flour; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp salt; 6 tbsp olive oil, divided; 1 jar raspberry jam (Bonne Maman recommended); 2 cups powdered sugar; 2-4 tbsp milk (whole milk preferred)

Jump to Recipe·4 from 2 reviews

If you are looking for a magical way to start your morning or delight your guests at a brunch, look no further than this Sweet Raspberry Jam Focaccia with Powdered Sugar Glaze Recipe. It marries fluffy, airy bread with luscious raspberry jam swirls that peek through every delicious bite, finished with a softly sweet powdered sugar glaze that takes the flavor right over the top. This joyful treat is comfort food elevated, offering a harmony of textures and tastes that will have everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A metal mixing bowl contains a single layer of white flour spread evenly inside it. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, and the flour has a slightly rough texture with some small clumps visible. Light falls softly from above, casting gentle shadows around the edges of the bowl, highlighting the smooth metallic finish and the powdery texture of the flour inside. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple, straightforward ingredients come together in this recipe, each playing a vital role in creating the perfect blend of sweet, fluffy, and tender with a little crispness on top. From the essential flours to the rich raspberry jam and creamy glaze, these components make the magic happen.

Warm water (1 ¾ cup, 105-115°F): The perfect temperature to activate the yeast without killing it.
Sugar (2 tsp): Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness to the dough.
Active dry yeast (1 packet): The powerhouse that lifts the dough into a light, airy focaccia.
Bread flour (2 cups): Gives structure and chewiness for that classic focaccia texture.
All-purpose flour (2 cups): Balances the dough’s tenderness while keeping it sturdy.
Salt (2 tsp): Enhances flavor and strengthens the dough.
Olive oil (6 tbsp, divided): Adds richness, moisture, and helps create a golden crust.
Raspberry jam (1 jar): The star sweet filling, I recommend Bonne Maman for its fresh, authentic flavor.
Powdered sugar (2 cups): The base for the lovely glaze that ties everything together.
Milk (2-4 tbsp): Used to achieve the perfect glaze consistency; whole milk works wonderfully.

How to Make Sweet Raspberry Jam Focaccia with Powdered Sugar Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Activate the yeast

Begin by warming your water to the ideal temperature between 105 and 115 degrees Fahrenheit. Add sugar and whisk it in until fully dissolved, then sprinkle in your yeast. Give it a gentle stir and wait about five minutes until it starts bubbling and foaming; this means your yeast is alive and eager to work its magic. If it doesn’t bubble, it’s better to start over to ensure your focaccia rises beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the dough

Using a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine bread flour, all-purpose flour, and salt. Slowly pour in the yeast mixture and let the mixer work until a sticky dough forms. This dough is going to be soft, slightly tacky but manageable—the perfect texture for an airy focaccia.

Step 3: First rise with olive oil

Generously brush the sides of a large mixing bowl with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Place your dough inside and rub another 2 tablespoons of olive oil over its surface. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and set it in a warm spot, like by a sunny window, for about an hour or until it has doubled in size. This step creates a tender crumb and ensures your focaccia’s fluffy structure.

Step 4: Shape and second rise

Next, prepare your 9×13-inch metal baking pan by brushing it with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Transfer the dough into the pan and fold it over itself several times, slightly kneading to promote gluten development while ensuring it’s well coated with the olive oil. Cover again and let it rise near warmth for another hour, until the dough has risen to the edges and looks invitingly puffy.

Step 5: Prepare for baking

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the plastic cover, drizzle more olive oil on top of the dough, and use your fingers to create many dimples and holes across the surface. This classic focaccia technique not only develops the texture but also creates pockets for the raspberry jam to settle perfectly.

Step 6: Add raspberry jam and bake

Spread one-quarter of your raspberry jam evenly over the focaccia’s surface, making sure to press it gently into the grooves you created. Bake for 18-22 minutes until the top is a lovely light golden brown and the bread is cooked through.

Step 7: The secret strawberry jam infusion

Once baked, take a large straw and poke about 35 holes throughout the bread. These holes will be filled with dollops of raspberry jam that warm within the bread, creating a deliciously sticky, sweet surprise in every bite.

Step 8: Make and apply the powdered sugar glaze

While the focaccia cools slightly, blend powdered sugar with milk using an electric hand mixer until the icing reaches a smooth, pourable yet firm consistency. The glaze should be thick enough to cling to the bread but not so heavy that it drips away. For the true “glazed donut” experience, flip the focaccia onto a wire rack and cover the bottom with glaze once the top dries. This extra touch turns your focaccia into an elegant, irresistible dessert or breakfast star.

How to Serve Sweet Raspberry Jam Focaccia with Powdered Sugar Glaze Recipe

The image shows a rectangular dessert bar layered with swirls of white cream and bright red strawberry pieces, creating a marbled effect on top. The dessert looks soft and slightly shiny, resting on a metal wire cooling rack. To the right of the dessert, there is a small white ramekin filled with white powdered sugar, and a fresh red strawberry with a green top sits beside it. The background is a white marbled surface. A woman's hand is partially visible, holding the edge of the cooling rack. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh raspberries scattered on top bring a burst of brightness and complement the jam perfectly. Try a sprinkle of finely chopped mint leaves for a refreshing herbal note, or a light dusting of extra powdered sugar for an irresistible, snow-kissed look that’s just as tasty as it is pretty.

Side Dishes

This focaccia shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a cup of rich, dark coffee or a glass of cold milk. If you’re serving brunch, a dollop of vanilla Greek yogurt or a side of creamy mascarpone cheese balances the sweetness with a silky touch.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the focaccia into generous squares and serve on a rustic wooden board to showcase the jam’s glossy rosettes. For gatherings, offer mini slices alongside a charcuterie platter with cheeses and fresh fruit to surprise your guests with a sweet twist. You can also use this sweet focaccia as a base for an elegant dessert by topping slices with fresh fruit and a dollop of whipped cream.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Sweet Raspberry Jam Focaccia with Powdered Sugar Glaze Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration will help extend freshness, though it can slightly firm the texture. To keep that beautiful glaze intact, place wax paper between layers if stacking.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap the focaccia tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. It will keep well for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature in the wrapping to retain moisture.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to revive that fresh-baked warmth and softness. Avoid microwaving as this can make the bread chewy. If you froze it, let it thaw fully before reheating for best results.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of jam in this recipe?

Absolutely! While raspberry jam offers a beautifully tart contrast, strawberry, blueberry, or even apricot jams work wonderfully. Just be sure to choose a high-quality jam for the best flavor.

Do I need a stand mixer to make this focaccia?

Using a stand mixer with a dough hook makes the process easier and ensures even mixing, but you can knead the dough by hand if you prefer. Just be prepared to spend a bit more time and effort to develop the gluten properly.

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Definitely! Despite the impressive results, this Sweet Raspberry Jam Focaccia with Powdered Sugar Glaze Recipe uses straightforward steps and common ingredients. Follow the instructions closely, and you’ll be rewarded with a bakery-quality focaccia.

Can I make the glaze without milk?

Yes, you can substitute milk with water or a non-dairy milk like almond milk. The taste will vary slightly, but it won’t affect the consistency much if you adjust the liquid quantity gradually.

How can I tell when the focaccia is fully baked?

The top should be a light golden color, and the bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. If you’re unsure, a quick toothpick test can help; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Final Thoughts

This Sweet Raspberry Jam Focaccia with Powdered Sugar Glaze Recipe is a joyful celebration of flavors and textures that will win over hearts at breakfast or dessert. It’s such a rewarding bake that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and promises smiles all around. Trust me, once you try it, this sweet focaccia will become a favorite treat you’ll be eager to share again and again.