Berry Focaccia with Mascarpone Cheese Recipe
Description:
Focaccia is a classic Italian bread that is both rustic and versatile. Traditionally, it’s seasoned with olive oil and herbs, but this variation introduces a delightful twist by topping it with a mix of fresh berries and serving it with sweetened mascarpone cheese. The combination of slightly sweet, juicy berries, the rich creaminess of mascarpone, and the savory flavor of the focaccia dough makes this dish a perfect choice for a side dish or even as a special snack. Whether you are new to baking bread or an experienced home baker, this berry focaccia will surely impress.
Cuisine: Italian
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Dough:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Flour | 2 cups |
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 2 cups |
| Active Dry Yeast | 2-1/2 teaspoons |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Honey | 2 teaspoons |
| Sage (chopped) | 6 leaves (or 1 tbsp fresh rosemary) |
| Water (lukewarm) | 2 cups |
For the Topping:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mixed Berries (Strawberries, Blueberries, Cape Gooseberries, Raspberries, Blackberries) | 1-1/2 cups |
| Granulated Sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 3 tablespoons |
For the Sweetened Mascarpone Cheese:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mascarpone Cheese | 1 cup |
| Honey | 2 tablespoons |
| Orange Zest (or Lime Zest) | 1 teaspoon |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Yield: 2 focaccia breads (8-9 inches each)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
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Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, and salt. Briefly mix them together. Add the chopped sage (or rosemary) and the olive oil. Stir until evenly combined.
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Activate the Yeast: In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of lukewarm water and honey (or sugar). Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water-sugar mixture and let it sit for 3-4 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is the ‘proofing’ stage, ensuring your yeast is active and ready to rise the dough.
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Make the Dough: If using a food processor or stand mixer, slowly add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients while the mixer is running on low speed. Add additional water, if needed, until a soft dough forms. If mixing by hand, pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture and stir until combined. Begin kneading the dough by hand or with the mixer (with the dough hook attachment) until it becomes smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes.
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Let the Dough Rise: Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, turning it once to coat. Cover the bowl with a wet kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1-1/2 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Berries
- Prepare the Berries: While the dough is rising, prepare the berries. Cut larger berries (such as strawberries and Cape gooseberries) in half. Leave the smaller berries whole. Set them aside for later use.
Step 3: Prepare the Sweetened Mascarpone Cheese
- Make the Sweetened Mascarpone: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mascarpone cheese, honey, and orange zest (or lime zest). Stir until smooth and fully combined. Set aside.
Step 4: Shape the Dough and Add the Toppings
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Divide the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently. Divide the dough into two equal portions. You can either shape them into two round or square breads, or keep one large rectangular loaf.
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Prepare the Baking Pans: Grease two 8-9 inch shallow cake pans (or baking sheets) with olive oil. Place the dough into the pans and spread it out evenly to fit the shape of the pans.
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Let the Dough Rise Again: Cover the pans with oiled cling film or a wet kitchen towel and let the dough rise again for about 30 minutes.
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Preheat the Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
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Make Dimples and Add Berries: Once the dough has risen, use your fingertips to make deep dimples all over the dough. Arrange the mixed berries on top of the dough, pressing them lightly into the dough.
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Drizzle with Olive Oil and Sugar: Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the dough and sprinkle with granulated sugar to enhance the sweetness and add a touch of crispness to the crust.
Step 5: Bake the Focaccia
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Bake: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and the berry juices are bubbling out. The crust should be firm to the touch.
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Cool: Once baked, remove the focaccia from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack. Garnish with extra sage or rosemary, if desired, for added fragrance and flavor.
Step 6: Serve
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Serve with Mascarpone Cheese: Slice the focaccia and serve it warm with the sweetened mascarpone cheese on the side. This dish pairs beautifully with a hot cup of masala chai or coffee.
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Snack or Dessert: You can also pack this delightful bread for a kids’ snack box or serve it at your next tea-time gathering for a sweet and savory treat.
Tips and Variations:
- Herb Substitution: While this recipe calls for sage or rosemary, feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or basil for a unique flavor profile.
- Berry Variations: Depending on the season, you can mix and match berries or even add a few slices of fresh stone fruits like peaches or plums for extra sweetness.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge overnight for a more complex flavor.
Enjoy your homemade Berry Focaccia with Mascarpone Cheese, and delight in the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and creamy!
