Christmas Tree Focaccia is a delightful way to bring the festive spirit of the season into your kitchen. This visually stunning and flavorful bread not only serves as a centerpiece for your holiday table but also packs a nutritious punch with wholesome ingredients. Enriched with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, this easy-to-make focaccia is perfect for family gatherings, parties, or simply as a comforting treat during chilly winter evenings.

Why make this Christmas Tree Focaccia recipe

Kid-approved: Fun to decorate and irresistible to eat.
Budget-friendly: Uses common ingredients with minimal cost.
Meal-prep friendly: Easy to make ahead and enjoy later.
Healthy ingredient choices: Leverage fresh vegetables and herbs.
Great for gatherings: A beautiful centerpiece that gets conversations started.

"This Christmas Tree Focaccia was the highlight of our holiday dinner! It looked stunning and tasted even better!" – Happy home baker.

How to make Christmas Tree Focaccia

Making your own Christmas Tree Focaccia is easier than it looks. This process involves mixing the dough, allowing it to rise, and skillfully decorating it with seasonal ingredients. You’ll need some basic kitchen tools like mixing bowls, a wooden spoon, and a casserole dish. For additional cooking inspiration, check out our delicious recipe for Healthy 20-Minute Chicken Stir-Fry.

Ingredients

3 cups bread flour
1/4 tsp active dry yeast
1 1/4 tsp coarse salt
1 2/3 cup warm water
Pear
Pearl onions
Cherry tomatoes
Thinly sliced red onion
Fresh rosemary sprigs
Coarse salt
Plenty of olive oil (a few tablespoons)

This Christmas Tree Focaccia recipe is versatile; feel free to substitute other vegetables based on your preferences or seasonal availability, but ensure you stick to the basic bread dough components to maintain texture.

Directions

In a large mixing bowl combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Whisk until combined, then add the warm water.
Using a wooden spoon, stir the dough together until it’s shaggy and wet. Cover it with plastic wrap and a clean kitchen towel and let it sit on the counter overnight (at least 12 hours).
The next day, grab a casserole dish (mine was about 7×12 inches) and drizzle a decent amount of oil on the bottom.
Uncover the bread bowl and check for a risen, bubbly dough. Gently tip the dough out into the casserole dish.
Spread it with your hands to fit snugly in the dish, then dimple it with your fingers and drizzle with more oil.
Let this sit, lightly covered, for two more hours.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Now it’s time to decorate! Use the rosemary as tree branches, fanning out in places.
Slice a small piece of pear to use as the tree base and slice the cherry tomatoes in half for “ornaments.” Do the same with the pearl onions, and consider adding a slice of pear for the tree topper.
Once you’re satisfied with the decoration, sprinkle with a little coarse salt and bake for 25 minutes, until the bread is puffed and golden, and the toppings have set.
Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve!

For more tips on meal preparation, be sure to check out our guide to Healthy Meal Prep for Weight Loss.

How to serve Christmas Tree Focaccia

This charming Christmas Tree Focaccia is perfect for sharing as a festive appetizer. Pair it with a light salad, cheese platter, or a selection of dips such as hummus or marinara sauce for a delightful spread. It can also be served alongside your favorite holiday dishes. For a nutritious twist, consider adding fresh greens or a yogurt dip.

How to store

To store leftover focaccia, wrap it in plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Alternatively, you can freeze it for longer storage—just make sure to wrap it tightly in foil. To reheat, pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. For safe storage timing, see USDA FoodData Central.

Tips to make

Use fresh ingredients to maximize flavor.
Let the dough rest for a full 12-24 hours for the best texture.
Experiment with your decorations—anything goes!

Variations

Herb-infused dough: Add dried herbs or garlic powder to the flour for a flavor boost.
Vegan option: This recipe is naturally vegan.
Sweet version: Top with fruits, nuts, and a drizzle of honey for a holiday dessert.

FAQs

Can I make Christmas Tree Focaccia in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and allow it to rise overnight.

How do I know when the focaccia is done?

The focaccia should be puffed and golden. The bottom should sound hollow when tapped gently.

What can I use instead of rosemary for decorating Christmas Tree Focaccia?

You can use any fragrant herbs such as thyme or parsley for a different flavor and look.

If you’re looking for more culinary inspiration for the holiday season, check out Serious Eats for great recipes and tips.

Christmas Tree Focaccia is a delightful and engaging dish that invites creativity and joy into your kitchen. We would love to hear about your experience or any unique twists you add—don’t forget to comment and share your festive focaccia creations!