There’s a unique glow that fills the kitchen when freshly baked bread emerges from the oven. Imagine the warm aroma of golden-brown focaccia mingling with sweet notes of raspberry jam, creating a delightful breakfast experience that beckons you to savor every bite. I stumbled upon this irresistible recipe, inspired by the comforting allure of homemade donuts, and transformed it into a brunch masterpiece: Jam Donut Focaccia.

Perfect for slow Sunday mornings or any occasion when you crave something sweet, this heavenly creation boasts luscious pockets of jam within a soft, pillowy dough. It’s not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s a spectacle that will leave your family and friends in awe. Best of all, you don’t need to be a professional baker to create this bakery-style delight—just a bit of patience and a love for home-cooked goodness! So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s embark on this deliciously rewarding journey.

Why love Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia?

Irresistible Aroma: The scent of freshly baked focaccia mingling with fruity jam is bound to fill your home with warmth and happiness.
Easy Steps: Simple enough for novice bakers, this recipe allows anyone to whip up a delicious treat without the fuss.
Showstopper Dessert: Impress friends and family with a stunning loaf that combines comfort food elements into something unique.
Versatile Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different fruit preserves or add spices for personalized twists!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this focaccia transcends typical meal boundaries, making it a delightful addition to any gathering.

Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia Ingredients

For the Dough

Warm Water (1 3/4 cups, 105-115°F) – Provides essential moisture for a fluffy dough; using a thermometer ensures perfect yeast activation.
Sugar (2 tsp) – Feeds the yeast and enhances sweetness; feel free to substitute with honey or maple syrup for different flavors.
Active Dry Yeast (1 packet) – Essential for rising the dough; ensure it’s fresh for maximum effectiveness.
Bread Flour (2 cups) – Gives the focaccia a chewy texture; you can swap it with all-purpose flour for a softer result.
All-Purpose Flour (2 cups) – Balances the dough’s texture; consider using more bread flour for a varied taste.
Salt (2 tsp) – Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity; keeping the quantity consistent ensures a delicious balance.
Olive Oil (6 tbsp, divided) – Adds richness and aids dough development; melted butter or a neutral oil works as a good substitute.

For the Filling and Topping

Raspberry Preserves (1 jar) – Provides the sweet, jammy filling; experiment with other fruit preserves for exciting flavor variations.
Confectioners’ Sugar (2 cups) – Used for a sweet glaze; adjust the amount based on your preferred sweetness level.
Whole Milk (2-4 tbsp) – Adjust for icing consistency; non-dairy milk can also be used as an alternative.

Dive into this exciting adventure of creating Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia that will make your mornings special!

How to Make Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia

Combine Ingredients: In a stand mixer bowl, mix warm water and sugar; whisk until dissolved. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes bubbly and frothy.
Mix the Dough: Attach the dough hook to your stand mixer. Add both bread flour and all-purpose flour along with salt. Mix until a sticky dough forms, being careful not to over-mix, which can toughen the dough.
Let it Rise: Lightly grease a bowl with olive oil; transfer the dough into the bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm area for about 1 hour until it doubles in size.
Prepare for Second Rise: Grease a 9×13 inch pan. Once the dough has risen, transfer it to the pan and gently fold it over itself a few times before covering and letting it rise for another hour, until it spreads to the edges.
Preheat & Poke: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Use your fingers to poke deep dimples all over the dough. Spread the raspberry preserves evenly over the top, letting the preserves fill those delicious pockets.
Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown. When removed from the oven, poke more holes and fill them with additional raspberry preserves for extra flavor.
Drizzle & Serve: Allow the focaccia to cool slightly. In the meantime, mix confectioners’ sugar with milk to create icing, then drizzle it over the focaccia. Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.

Optional: Pair with a delicious cup of coffee or tea for the perfect breakfast experience.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delicious twists that enhance your focaccia experience!

Berry Blast: Swap raspberry for mixed berry preserves—think strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries combined for a vibrant burst of flavor.
Exotic Citrus: Try lemon curd or orange marmalade instead of jam for a zesty twist that brightens up your mornings like a sunny day.
Spiced Delight: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, aromatic flavor that dances with each bite. It’s like a hug in pastry form!
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts like hazelnuts or almonds before baking for added crunch and a delightful texture contrast that everyone will enjoy.
Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Mix in chocolate chips with the jam for a decadent fusion that turns your focaccia into a dessert masterpiece. Sweet indulgence, anyone?
Herbed Sensation: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for a savory twist—perfect for those who love a herbaceous touch with their sweet treat.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose and bread flour for a deliciously accommodating treat that everyone can enjoy.
Vegan Variation: Substitute milk with almond milk and use a flaxseed mixture for the eggs, allowing everyone to partake in this delightful focaccia experience without animal products.

Make Ahead Options

These Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify their meal prep! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first three steps of the recipe, then refrigerate it overnight after it rises. Just remember to let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before transferring it to the pan and proceeding with the second rise. Additionally, you can fill and bake the focaccia a day ahead of your gathering, storing it, unglazed, in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Simply glaze before serving for delicious, easy breakfast bliss!

Expert Tips for Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia

Check Yeast Temperature: Make sure your warm water is between 105-115°F. If it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising properly.
Mind the Jam Layer: Apply a thin layer of raspberry preserves to avoid a soggy dough. Too much filling can lead to a wet texture instead of fluffy focaccia.
Patience is Key: Don’t rush the rising time. Allow the dough to double in size for a light and airy texture; it usually takes about an hour.
Create Deep Dimples: Use your fingers to poke deep dimples in the dough before adding the preserves. This helps hold the filling for added sweetness in every bite.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to substitute raspberry preserves with other fruit varieties like strawberry or apricot. Each choice offers a unique twist on your homemade jam donut focaccia.

Storage Tips for Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia

Room Temperature: Store covered on the counter for up to 2 days. Enjoy the focaccia fresh, as it’s best right after baking.

Fridge: If you need to keep it longer, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The texture may slightly change but remains delicious!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unglazed focaccia in an airtight container for up to a month. Glaze when you’re ready to serve for optimal freshness.

Reheating: To enjoy your focaccia warm, reheat individual pieces in a toaster oven or microwave, ensuring it retains its delightful softness.

What to Serve with Jam Donut Focaccia?

Elevate your breakfast or brunch spread with delightful pairings that complement the sweet, fluffy nature of this amazing treat.

Coffee: A classic pairing, the rich, robust notes of coffee perfectly balance the sweetness of the jam, enhancing your morning ritual.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a luxurious element, creating an indulgent experience with each blissful bite.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries elevate the fruity notes of the focaccia, adding a refreshing contrast that brightens the meal.
Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide a savory touch, creating a delicious contrast to the sweetness, for a well-rounded brunch.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer with creamy yogurt and granola for a healthful addition that adds texture and contrasts beautifully with the sweet focaccia.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup enhances the focal sweetness, making it even more delightful for those who love a sweet breakfast treat.
Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea soothes the palate, balancing the sugary sweetness while also providing a cozy drink option.

Consider these pairings to build a harmonious, delightful breakfast around your Jam Donut Focaccia!

Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia Recipe FAQs

How should I select the water temperature for the dough?
For activating yeast effectively, ensure your warm water is between 105°F and 115°F. Use a kitchen thermometer for precision, as water that’s too hot can kill the yeast and prevent the dough from rising properly.

How long can I store the focaccia?
Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored at room temperature, covered, for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 4 days; however, the texture may become slightly denser.

Can I freeze this focaccia, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze your focaccia, first allow it to cool completely after baking. Then, place the unglazed focaccia in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw and glaze before serving.

What should I do if the dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, check to see if your yeast was fresh and properly activated. A yeast that’s old or hasn’t been dissolved in the correct temperature water can lead to issues. If you encounter a flat dough, you might need to start over with a new batch of yeast. Remember, patience is key; allowing the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free spot is essential for success!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes, if you’re serving this focaccia to anyone with dietary restrictions, keep in mind that it contains gluten and may not be suitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. For dairy alternatives, you can use non-dairy milk in the icing. I often make this with various fruit preserves to cater to different taste preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy every bite!

What if I want to use a different filling?
Feel free to experiment! Instead of raspberry preserves, you can use other fruit varieties like blueberry, strawberry, or apricot to change up the flavor profile. Just keep in mind the texture and moisture content; avoid adding excessive filling to ensure the focaccia remains fluffy and doesn’t become soggy.