Sticky Pecan Focaccia Bread

Name: Sticky Pecan Focaccia Bread
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Focaccia Dough; 440 g all-purpose flour; 7 g active dry yeast; 240 ml warm water (43°C); 80 ml olive oil, plus extra for greasing; 13 g sugar; 5 g salt; Sticky Pecan Topping; 65 g pecans, chopped; 90 g brown sugar, packed; 60 g butter; 5 ml vanilla extract

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: January 29, 2026

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Introduction to Sticky Pecan Focaccia Bread

Is there anything more satisfying than the scent of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen? I don’t think so! That’s why I’m excited to share my recipe for Sticky Pecan Focaccia Bread. It’s an absolute delight, boasting a sweet and sticky pecan topping that transforms a classic Italian favorite into a dessert sensation.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just trying to please the family on a busy weeknight, this recipe is a quick solution. Trust me, your loved ones will be coming back for seconds, and you’ll bask in the warm glow of their appreciation!

Why You’ll Love This Sticky Pecan Focaccia Bread

This Sticky Pecan Focaccia Bread is a total game-changer! It combines the chewy, fluffy texture of focaccia with the richness of sticky pecans, making it irresistible. You’ll love how easy it is to make, even on your busiest days. Plus, it’s a sweet treat that brings joy to any table, creating moments of happiness during family meals or casual get-togethers with friends.

Ingredients for Sticky Pecan Focaccia Bread

Let’s gather our treasure trove of ingredients to create this heavenly Sticky Pecan Focaccia Bread. Each element brings something special to the table, contributing to the warm, melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Focaccia Dough: At the heart of this recipe, the dough forms the fluffy base that holds everything together.
All-purpose flour: This versatile flour provides the structure, creating that fluffy texture we all love.

Active dry yeast: The magic worker! It helps our dough rise, ensuring it’s light and airy.
Warm water: Vital for activating the yeast, it gives life to our dough. Aim for the right temperature; too hot can kill the yeast!
Olive oil: Adds moisture and richness to our dough. A drizzle on top later enhances the flavor.

Sugar: A little sweetness in the dough helps balance flavors and feeds the yeast, giving us that lovely rise.
Salt: Essential for flavor, it enhances all the other ingredients while controlling yeast activity.

Now, let’s dive into the Sticky Pecan Topping:

Pecans: These nuts add that wonderful crunch and buttery flavor to our topping. Feel free to swap in walnuts if you prefer.

Brown sugar: This brings deep sweetness and a hint of caramel, making our topping irresistibly sticky.
Butter: Adds richness and allows our topping to achieve that luscious texture. Go for unsalted to best control flavors.
Vanilla extract: Just a splash gives a warm, sweet aroma that complements the pecans beautifully.

For exact quantities of these ingredients, be sure to check the end of the article, where they’re outlined for easy printing. Let’s whip up something magical!

How to Make Sticky Pecan Focaccia Bread

Ready to dive into the delicious world of Sticky Pecan Focaccia Bread? Excitement is in the air! Let’s break it down into simple steps that will lead you to a delightful homemade treat. Get your apron on, and let’s begin!

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by dissolving the active dry yeast and a little sugar in warm water. I like to let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it gets foamy and bubbly. This is how we know our yeast is alive and ready to work its magic!

Step 2: Prepare the Focaccia Dough

In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour and salt. Once combined, pour in the foamy yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a sticky dough forms. It’s a little messy, but that’s the fun part!

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead it gently for about 8 to 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Don’t rush—this step is crucial for developing that delightful texture!

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Set it in a warm spot and let it rise for 60 to 90 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it has doubled in size. Think of it as giving the dough a cozy nap!

Step 5: Shape the Dough for Baking

Once risen, oil a baking sheet generously. Gently turn the dough out onto it and stretch it to fit the dimensions of the pan. Use your fingertips to create deep dimples all over the surface—this is where the sticky topping will settle beautifully!

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the dough again and let it rise for another 30 to 45 minutes. This gives our focaccia that lovely, airy structure. While you wait, you can start dreaming about the glorious flavors to come!

Step 7: Make the Pecan Topping

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and vanilla extract. Cook until it’s smooth and bubbling. Finally, fold in the chopped pecans. The aroma will tempt you to dive right in!

Step 8: Bake the Focaccia

Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Place the focaccia base in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until it turns a gorgeous golden brown. This is where the magic begins!

Step 9: Add the Sticky Topping

Once out of the oven, immediately sprinkle the pecan mixture over the hot focaccia. This step is key! Return it to the oven for another 8 to 10 minutes until the topping is caramelized and set. It’s going to be sticky in the best way possible!

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool for at least 10 minutes. This keeps the layers intact and helps each slice look perfect. Then, slice it into 12 pieces, serve warm, and bask in the joy of your culinary triumph!

Tips for Success

For the perfect rise, make sure your water temperature is around 110°F—too hot can ruin the yeast!
Use high-quality olive oil for richer flavor.
Be gentle when kneading and stretching the dough to avoid deflating it.
Always cover your dough during rising to prevent it from drying out.

Let your Sticky Pecan Focaccia cool slightly before slicing for clean edges and better texture.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls: You’ll need a large bowl for mixing the dough. A sturdy mixing bowl works beautifully.
Baking sheet or focaccia pan: A traditional focaccia pan is great, but a regular baking sheet does the job too!

Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy when measuring ingredients.
Floured surface: A clean counter or cutting board will suffice for kneading the dough.
Damp cloth: Used to cover the dough while it rises. A kitchen towel works perfectly.

Variations on Sticky Pecan Focaccia Bread

Maple Pecan Focaccia: Substitute brown sugar with maple syrup for a deliciously unique twist that still retains that sticky goodness.
Cinnamon Swirl Focaccia: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dough and topping for a warm, cozy flavor perfect for fall or holiday gatherings.
Chocolate Chip Pecan Focaccia: Mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips with the pecans for a decadent dessert option that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Gluten-Free Focaccia: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Just adjust the liquid slightly, as gluten-free flours can absorb more moisture.
Dairy-Free Version: Replace butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute to make the topping dairy-free while keeping all that yumminess intact.

Serving Suggestions for Sticky Pecan Focaccia Bread

Perfect Pairing: Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a heavenly dessert experience.

Drink Match: Enjoy with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a sweet tea for delightful contrast.
Presentation Tip: Drizzle with extra honey before serving for an irresistible shiny finish.

FAQs about Sticky Pecan Focaccia Bread

Curious about making this delicious Sticky Pecan Focaccia Bread? Here are some questions I often hear, along with my thoughts to set you on the right path!

Can I make this Sticky Pecan Focaccia Bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and allow it to rise, then refrigerate it overnight. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before baking for the best results.

How do I store the leftover focaccia?

To keep your Sticky Pecan Focaccia Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze individual slices for later enjoyment!

Can I use other nuts for the topping?

Sure! While pecans add a delightful flavor, you can substitute them with walnuts or even almonds for a tasty switch. Just chop them up the same way you would the pecans.

Is this focaccia suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Yes, my Sticky Pecan Focaccia Bread is fully vegetarian! Just ensure that your butter substitute, if used, is also vegetarian-friendly.

What’s the best way to enjoy this bread?

Serve it warm or at room temperature! It pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea, making it the perfect treat for brunch or a cozy afternoon snack.

Final Thoughts

There’s a delightful warmth that comes from baking homemade Sticky Pecan Focaccia Bread. The blend of sweet, sticky pecans on fluffy dough creates a comforting experience, perfect for gatherings or quiet moments at home. Each bite transports you to a cozy café, bringing smiles all around. I cherish how simple ingredients transform into something extraordinary, rekindling love for the kitchen. So, when you whip up this easy recipe, know you’re not just baking—you’re creating memories and sharing joy. I can’t wait for you to relish every delicious slice with family and friends!