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Cinnamon Sugar Focaccia with Cream Cheese Frosting

A delightful and indulgent treat featuring soft focaccia bread smothered in cinnamon sugar and topped with a creamy frosting, perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Baked Goods, Italian
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 1 cup water, warmed (about 105 to 110 degrees F) Use filtered water for the best flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar Helps to activate the yeast and sweetens the dough.
  • 1 teaspoon active dry yeast Make sure it’s fresh; expired yeast won’t rise properly.
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil, divided Use a neutral oil; olive oil can give too strong a flavor.
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour Bread flour can yield a chewier texture.
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt Adjust as needed if using table salt.
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted For richness; melted butter incorporates beautifully into the dough.
  • 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed Gives depth along with caramel notes.
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon The star flavor of this dish; feel free to increase to your liking.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 2 ounces cream cheese, softened Use full-fat for the richest flavor; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened Creamy goodness for the frosting.
  • 1 cup confectioners' sugar Sweetness and smoothness for the frosting.
  • 2 tablespoons milk Ensures a lovely pouring consistency.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances the overall flavor profile.
  • 1 pinch kosher salt Balances the sweetness of the frosting.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, combine the warm water, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Let this mixture rest for about 5 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and frothy.
  2. Pour half of the vegetable oil into the yeast mixture and set the remaining oil aside. Add the flour and kosher salt to the bowl, stirring gently until combined into a shaggy dough.
  3. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm space for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
  4. About 10 minutes before you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 450 degrees F (232 degrees C).
  5. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon to create a lovely, gooey mixture for drizzling.
  6. Pour the remaining oil into a 9x11 inch baking pan, using a pastry brush to ensure the bottom is well-coated.
  7. Once the dough has risen, gently push it down to release any air and then transfer it to the baking pan, spreading it out to fill the edges completely.
  8. Using your fingers, create dimples across the surface of the dough.
  9. Drizzle the cinnamon sugar butter mixture evenly over the top.
  10. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown.
Frosting
  1. While the bread cools, prepare the icing by mixing the softened cream cheese, softened butter, confectioners' sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl until it’s creamy and smooth.
  2. Once the focaccia has cooled for about 10 minutes, drizzle the cream cheese frosting generously over the top before slicing.

Notes

For optimal rising, place the bowl in a slightly warmed oven or a sunny spot. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for about a week.