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Homemade Christmas Tree Focaccia decorated with herbs and festive toppings.

Christmas Tree Focaccia

This festive and visually stunning Christmas Tree Focaccia serves as a delightful centerpiece and delicious starter for holiday gatherings.
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Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 3 cups bread flour provides a chewy texture; all-purpose or whole wheat can also work
  • 1 packet dry yeast instant yeast is recommended for easy rising
  • 1.5 teaspoons salt use fine sea salt for optimal flavor enhancement
  • 1.5 cups warm water helps activate the yeast for a perfect rise
  • to taste Olive oil greases the baking dish and adds flavor when drizzled on top
Toppings
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes sliced; look like colorful ornaments on your tree
  • 1 Pear cut into small pieces; serves as a charming tree base and star decoration
  • 1 Red onion sliced; adds beautiful color and a mild flavor contrast
  • to taste Pearl onions halved; optional; gives a rustic holiday look if desired
  • as needed Fresh rosemary a wonderful aromatic garnish that enhances the festive look

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, combine 3 cups of bread flour, 1 packet of instant yeast, and 1.5 teaspoons of fine sea salt. Gradually add 1.5 cups of warm water until everything is well blended.
  2. Turn the mixed dough onto a floured surface and gently knead it for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic, forming a soft ball.
  3. Cover the dough with a kitchen towel and let it rise overnight in a warm place. It should double in size, becoming fluffy and airy.
Baking
  1. The next day, grease a casserole dish with olive oil. Place the risen dough into the dish, spreading it out with your fingers and dimpling the surface for a lovely texture.
  2. Generously drizzle olive oil on top of the dough. Then, decorate with fresh rosemary, arranging it to resemble a Christmas tree shape.
  3. Slice 1 cup of cherry tomatoes in half and scatter them on the dough like colorful ornaments. Add halved pearl onions and sliced red onion for additional festive flair.
  4. Create a sturdy tree base using a piece of pear and add thin slices on top for a sparkling star decoration.
  5. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Bake the focaccia for about 25 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and the aroma fills your kitchen with holiday warmth.
  6. Once done, let your delicious Christmas Tree Focaccia cool for a few minutes before slicing it.
  7. Enjoy this stunning centerpiece warm!

Notes

Serve the Christmas Tree Focaccia warm as an appetizer or side dish. It pairs well with soups, salads, or dips. To store leftovers, wrap tightly or place in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze wrapped for up to a month.