“Who needs a donut shop when you can create a heavenly treat right in your own kitchen? This Jam Donut Focaccia is my new favorite way to start the day. Imagine soft, pillowy bread filled with your favorite jam, creating a delightful blend of comfort and sweetness perfect for cozy weekend breakfasts or brunch gatherings. Not only is this recipe a cinch to whip up using simple pantry staples, but it also showcases a fun twist on traditional recipes—ideal for impressing your family and friends! So, why not swap out the usual toast for this indulgent, crowd-pleasing delight that’s sure to become a weekend staple? Curious about how to make it? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!”

Why is this Jam Donut Focaccia a must?

Comforting flavors: The combination of soft bread and sweet jam creates a nostalgic treat that will remind you of your favorite childhood donuts.

Easy to customize: Feel free to experiment with different jam flavors, like strawberry or apricot, to suit your taste!

Perfect brunch centerpiece: This showstopper will impress your guests, making it an ideal choice for weekend brunch gatherings.

Quick preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have freshly baked goodness in just a few hours, far quicker than a donut run!

Crowd-pleaser: Whether you serve it warm with coffee or as a sweet addition to your breakfast spread, it’s bound to leave everyone asking for seconds, just like this delightful Jamaican Curry Chicken you might also enjoy!

Jam Donut Focaccia Ingredients

• Easy pantry staples for deliciousness!

For the Dough

Warm Water – Provides hydration to activate yeast; use water at 105-115°F for optimal yeast activation.
Sugar – Feeds yeast for fermentation, enhancing rise and sweetness; can be substituted with honey.
Active Dry Yeast – Ferments dough, contributing to the rise; substitute with instant yeast (same amount) without the need for proofing.
Bread Flour – Contributes structure and chewiness; substitute with all-purpose flour for a softer texture.
All-Purpose Flour – Adds lightness to the dough; can be replaced with additional bread flour.
Salt – Adds flavor and strengthens gluten, essential for flavor balance.
Olive Oil – Enhances richness and moisture in the dough; can substitute with melted butter or vegetable oil.

For the Filling and Topping

Raspberry Preserves – Sweet filling that creates pockets of flavor; feel free to use other fruit preserves like strawberry or apricot for your jam donut focaccia.
Confectioners’ Sugar – Sweet glaze for the finishing touch; ensure correct consistency for spreading.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Jam Donut Focaccia

Step 1: Mix Yeast
In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water (105-115°F) and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Whisk in 2 packets of active dry yeast until well combined, then let the mixture stand for about 5 minutes or until it becomes frothy. This step activates the yeast, a crucial part of creating the fluffy texture in your Jam Donut Focaccia.

Step 2: Prepare Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of bread flour, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Pour in the frothy yeast mixture along with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix until a sticky dough forms, using a wooden spoon or your hands. Ensure all the flour is incorporated to create a cohesive dough that forms the base of your delicious focaccia.

Step 3: Initial Rise
Transfer the sticky dough into a greased mixing bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 hour. You’ll know it’s ready when the dough has puffed up and feels airy, signaling that the yeast has done its work to create the lightness needed for your Jam Donut Focaccia.

Step 4: Shape
After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and pour the dough into it, spreading it evenly with your hands. Fold the edges of the dough toward the center, then cover it again and let it rise for another hour, until it doubles in size once more. This shaping step is vital for achieving the right structure and texture.

Step 5: Preheat Oven
While the dough is rising for the second time, preheat your oven to 425°F. By preparing your oven now, you’ll ensure that your Jam Donut Focaccia bakes evenly and achieves a beautiful golden brown color once ready.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Once the dough has risen, use your fingers to poke deep dimples all over the surface. Gather your raspberry preserves, and spread it evenly into the holes you created, making sure to fill them generously. The dimples will hold the jam, enhancing the flavor of your delightful focaccia.

Step 7: Bake
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. Keep an eye on the focaccia; it should turn golden brown and sound hollow when tapped. This visual cue ensures that the dough is perfectly baked through and ready to offer its sweet jam-filled goodness.

Step 8: Fill Holes
As soon as the focaccia is out of the oven, poke the dimples again to deepen them slightly, and fill each one with more raspberry preserves while the focaccia is still warm. This step ensures that the jam seeps into the bread, creating the perfect sweet pockets as it cools.

Step 9: Glaze
To finish your Jam Donut Focaccia, prepare a simple glaze by mixing confectioners’ sugar with a small amount of water until smooth. Spread the glaze generously over the top of the warm focaccia, adding an irresistible sweet layer. Consider glazing the bottom as well for extra flavor.

Step 10: Serve
Allow the focaccia to cool slightly before cutting it into squares or rectangles. Serve warm for the best experience, and enjoy this comforting treat on its own or paired with coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or brunch treat!

Storage Tips for Jam Donut Focaccia

Room Temperature: Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps the focaccia soft and maintains its delightful fluffy texture.

Freezer: Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container to freeze for up to 1 month. This way, you can enjoy your sweet treat anytime!

Reheating: Warm in a 300°F oven for about 10-15 minutes to revive the fresh-baked taste of your Jam Donut Focaccia before serving. Enjoy the gooey jam and soft bread!

Make Ahead Options

These Jam Donut Focaccia are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial rise instructions (step 3), then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it to slow down the fermentation. When you are ready to bake, allow the dough to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping and proceeding with step 4. Additionally, you can also fill the dimples with raspberry preserves up to 3 days ahead, keeping the prepared dough covered in the refrigerator. This way, you’ll have a warm, freshly baked treat with minimal effort on busy mornings, just as delicious as if made on the spot!

Expert Tips for Jam Donut Focaccia

Yeast Temperature: Use water at 105-115°F; water that’s too hot can kill the yeast, preventing your Jam Donut Focaccia from rising.
Patience with Rising: Allow ample time for each rise; rushing can lead to denser, less fluffy focaccia.
Deep Dimples: Make sure to poke deep dimples for the jam filling; shallow ones may disappear during the second rise, resulting in fewer tasty pockets.
Cooling Time: Let the focaccia cool slightly before slicing; this helps the jam set and keeps the filling from spilling out.
Storage Guidelines: Store your Jam Donut Focaccia covered at room temperature for up to 2 days; this maintains its fluffy texture.

Jam Donut Focaccia Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this lovely Jam Donut Focaccia to suit your palate!

Dairy-Free: Substitute olive oil with coconut oil and use a plant-based butter for the glaze to keep it dairy-free.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for an aromatic twist that complements sweet fillings beautifully.
Nutty Crunch: Mix in chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, into the dough for added texture and flavor dimension.
Spiced Delight: Infuse some ground cinnamon or nutmeg into either the dough or glaze for a warm spice kick that’s perfect for cooler months.
Fruit-Filled: Experiment with various jam flavors like blueberry or peach or even fresh fruit, such as mashed bananas, to brighten the flavors.
Savory Option: For a twist, fill with savory toppings like garlic butter or cheese instead; it’s a delightful way to change up the routine.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour, ensuring it’s designed for yeast baking, to cater to gluten sensitivities.

This recipe is wonderfully versatile; whether enjoyed at brunch with fresh berries or paired with a cup of tea, it’s sure to be a hit! If you’re exploring more delightful recipes, you might want to try this scrumptious Jamaican Curry Chicken or consider adding more indulgent flavors to your mornings!

What to Serve with Jam Donut Focaccia?

Mornings are extra special when you pair this delightful treat with the perfect accompaniments!

Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries elevate each bite, adding freshness and vibrant color to your breakfast table.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream complements the sweetness of the focaccia and enhances its dessert-like quality.
Greek Yogurt: Creamy and tangy, Greek yogurt adds a protein-packed option that balances the sweetness of the jam-filled bread beautifully.
Café-Style Coffee: A bold cup of coffee not only heightens the flavor experience but also provides the perfect pick-me-up for lazy mornings.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For a delightful twist, serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, merging breakfast and dessert into one indulgent treat.
Herbal Tea: A calming herbal tea pairs wonderfully, offering a gentle backdrop that allows the focaccia’s sweetness to shine without overpowering.

Every bite of your jam donut focaccia should be savored with the perfect partner, turning a simple breakfast into an extraordinary experience!

Jam Donut Focaccia Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to choose ripe fruit preserves for filling?
Absolutely! When selecting fruit preserves for your Jam Donut Focaccia, look for vibrant colors and a thick consistency. Avoid jars with dark spots or an overly watery texture, as they may indicate spoilage. A well-sealed jar with a pop when opened is a good sign of freshness—these qualities ensure a delicious filling for your focaccia!

How should I store leftover Jam Donut Focaccia?
You can store your lovely focaccia covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. This way, it stays soft and delicious, perfect for snacking! For longer preservation, freeze individual pieces wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Just remember, the glaze is best made fresh upon serving!

Can I freeze Jam Donut Focaccia? How?
Yes, the more the merrier! To freeze your Jam Donut Focaccia, slice it into individual serving pieces once it has cooled completely. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn and place them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a 300°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the jam is invitingly gooey!

What should I do if my Jam Donut Focaccia didn’t rise properly?
Very good question! If your focaccia didn’t rise, it could be due to several factors. First, check the temperature of the water used for activating the yeast—if it’s higher than 115°F, it may kill the yeast. Also, ensure you’re using active dry yeast that is still fresh—expired yeast won’t activate properly. If your dough feels dense, it may need additional rising time; keep it in a warm place to encourage growth.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Indeed! While this Jam Donut Focaccia is generally made with common ingredients, remember to check for any fruit preserves that may contain allergens, like nuts. For those with gluten sensitivities, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends; just keep in mind that the texture may vary. Also, serving suggestions like yogurt should cater to dietary preferences. Enjoy experimenting while making it suitable for everyone at your table!