Name: Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Focaccia with Sweet Glaze Delight
Prep time: 75 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 115 min
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp sea salt; 2 tsp instant yeast; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1.5 cups warm water ((90°F to 100°F)); 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/2 cup Cinnamon Sweet Bits (recommended); 2 tsp cinnamon (preferably Vietnamese); 1/2 cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar); 1/4 cup butter (salted or unsalted); 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup milk (or almond milk); 1 tsp vanilla extract

The aroma of freshly baked bread is one of life’s greatest comforts, and trust me, this Big and Bubbly Cinnamon Roll Focaccia is about to become your new favorite indulgence. Imagine biting into a fluffy, tender dough, with a crunchy brown sugar topping and a drizzle of sweet glaze making each slice irresistible. This delightful recipe is quick to whip up, making it a perfect centerpiece for your next gathering, and if there are any leftovers, you can easily transform them into scrumptious French toast for breakfast. With its unique twist on the classic cinnamon roll, this focaccia will have your taste buds dancing. Are you ready to elevate your baking game?

Why is This Focaccia So Special?

Fluffy Texture: Each bite of this Cinnamon Roll Focaccia offers a light, airy texture that’s both comforting and indulgent.

Uniquely Delicious: The crunchy brown sugar topping combined with the sweet glaze elevates the classic cinnamon roll experience like never before.

Quick Prep: With a simple mix-and-rise method, you’ll have this delightful pastry ready in no time, perfect for both spontaneous cravings and planned gatherings!

Versatile Treat: Ideal for brunch, dessert, or even a cozy snack, it perfectly complements coffee or chai tea, making it great for any occasion.

Transform Leftovers: Any remaining slices can easily be repurposed into delicious French toast the following morning—talk about a win-win!

If you’re craving more creative baked goods, don’t miss out on our delicious Garlic Rosemary Focaccia or indulgent Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Cinnamon Roll Focaccia Ingredients

• Discover the essential ingredients for a truly delightful Cinnamon Roll Focaccia!

For the Dough

Flour – A sturdy base; using all-purpose flour yields the best results for structure.
Salt – Enhances natural flavors; sea salt adds a lovely touch.
Yeast – Essential leavening agent; instant yeast quickens the rising process.
Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with browning; brown sugar deepens the flavor profile.
Water – Hydrates the dough; warm water (90°F to 100°F) activates yeast efficiently.
Olive Oil – Contributes to tenderness; light olive oil or melted butter are good substitutes.

For the Cinnamon Infusion

Cinnamon Sweet Bits – Pack with cinnamon flavor; recommended for this recipe to enhance every bite.
Cinnamon – Intensifies the overall taste; consider using Vietnamese cinnamon for a bolder flavor.

For the Topping

Brown Sugar – Creates a delicious crunchy topping; coconut sugar can be a healthier alternative.
Butter – Adds rich flavor to the topping; choose between salted or unsalted depending on your preference.

For the Glaze

Powdered Sugar – Contributes to the sweet finishing touch; essential for that irresistible glaze.
Milk – Helps achieve the right consistency; almond milk works perfectly for non-dairy needs.
Vanilla Extract – Adds a lovely aroma and flavor; essential for elevating the glaze.

Prepare to impress your family and friends with this delightful Cinnamon Roll Focaccia as a centerpiece at your next gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Focaccia

Step 1: Prepare Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, instant yeast, and sugar until well combined. Gradually add warm water (90°F to 100°F) and olive oil, mixing until you have a shaggy dough. Set the bowl aside and let the dough rest for 15 minutes to allow the ingredients to meld together.

Step 2: Bowl Folds
After the initial rest, perform the first bowl fold by gently pulling the dough from the edges toward the center, turning the bowl a quarter turn between each fold. Repeat this folding process three more times every 15 minutes to develop gluten, resulting in a strong dough that will give your Cinnamon Roll Focaccia its beautiful structure.

Step 3: Incorporate Cinnamon Sweet Bits
During the second and third bowl folds, sprinkle half of the Cinnamon Sweet Bits onto the dough, folding them in gently to incorporate. This step infuses the dough with delightful cinnamon flavor, ensuring that every bite of your Cinnamon Roll Focaccia will be bursting with that classic taste.

Step 4: First Rise
Once you’ve completed the bowl folds, cover the mixing bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area until it doubles in size, which should take about 1 hour. You’ll know it’s ready when it feels puffy and soft to the touch.

Step 5: Prepare Pan
While the dough is rising, grease a 9″ square Fabulous Focaccia Pan with nonstick spray. For added insurance against sticking, line the bottom of the pan with a piece of parchment paper. This will help your Cinnamon Roll Focaccia to release easily after baking.

Step 6: Final Rise
Once the dough has doubled, transfer it to the prepared pan. Using oiled fingers, gently dimple the surface of the dough, creating little pockets that will hold the topping mix. Spread the topping mixture over the top, drizzle with a little more olive oil, and cover the pan. Let it rise until puffy, which should take about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Once the oven is ready, place the Cinnamon Roll Focaccia inside and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and fragrant. You’ll know it’s done when the crust is crisp and the edges are starting to pull away from the pan.

Step 8: Make Glaze
While the focaccia cools slightly, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. This sweet glaze will add a delicious finish to your Cinnamon Roll Focaccia, enhancing its overall allure.

Step 9: Serve
Cut the Cinnamon Roll Focaccia into slices and serve warm or at room temperature. The delightful combination of fluffy texture and sweet glaze will surely bring smiles to your table, making it the perfect treat for any occasion.

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Roll Focaccia

Perfect Temperature: Ensure the dough temperature is between 82°F to 86°F for an optimal rise. Avoid cold ingredients that may hinder fermentation.
Cinnamon Sweet Bits: Don’t skip the Cinnamon Sweet Bits—they’re essential for infusing rich cinnamon flavor throughout your focaccia.
Pan Choice: Use a Fabulous Focaccia Pan for best results; it promotes even baking. Glass pans tend to retain heat unevenly.
Serving Fresh: For the best texture, enjoy your Cinnamon Roll Focaccia the same day it’s baked. Reheat leftovers gently to revive the fluffiness.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or cardamom, to surprise your palate with new flavors!

Make Ahead Options

These Big and Bubbly Cinnamon Roll Focaccia are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to step six and refrigerate it overnight (up to 24 hours) before the final rise. Simply cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, take the pan out of the refrigerator, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour, then allow it to rise until puffy before baking. This way, you’ll have freshly baked focaccia without the morning rush, maintaining its delightful fluffiness and flavor just as if you made it that day!

Cinnamon Roll Focaccia Variations

Feel free to customize your Cinnamon Roll Focaccia for a delightful twist that suits your taste buds!

Chocolate Chips: Swap out the Cinnamon Sweet Bits with chocolate chips for a rich, indulgent version that adds a sweet surprise.
Nut Butter Glaze: Use your favorite nut butter in the glaze instead of standard ingredients for a creamy, rich finish that elevates the flavor.
Spice It Up: Add in a dash of nutmeg or cardamom for an aromatic twist that pairs beautifully with the sweet cinnamon.
Fruit Additions: Toss in some dried fruits like cranberries or raisins into the dough for a fruity burst, adding natural sweetness and texture.
Coconut Sugar: Replace brown sugar with coconut sugar in the topping for a healthier alternative that brings a unique caramel flavor.
Maple Glaze: Use maple syrup instead of powdered sugar in the glaze for an earthy sweetness that perfectly complements the cinnamon.
Savory Twist: Incorporate herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for a savory take that balances the sweetness of the topping.
Vegan Variation: Use almond milk and replace butter with coconut oil for a delicious vegan-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Explore these options to make your Cinnamon Roll Focaccia uniquely yours! And if you’re in the mood for more creative baking, you can try our delightful Garlic Rosemary Focaccia or the comforting Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

What to Serve with Big and Bubbly Cinnamon Roll Focaccia?

There’s nothing quite like a warm, fluffy slice of sweet focaccia, but pairing it with the perfect sides can elevate your meal to new heights.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery goodness creates a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the focaccia, making every bite more fulfilling.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of vibrant fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi adds a refreshing pop that complements the rich flavors of the focaccia.
Rich Chai Tea: Spiced and aromatic, a warm cup of chai beautifully balances the sweetness and enhances the cinnamon notes in every bite.
Honey Glazed Carrots: The caramelized edges of honey-drizzled carrots provide a sweet and savory complement that pairs wonderfully with the focaccia.
Apple Cinnamon Salad: With a tangy dressing and crunchy apples, this salad echoes the cinnamon theme while adding freshness and crunch to your table.
Maple Bacon: The salty, crispy bacon pieces mingle perfectly with the sweet glaze, creating a hearty and satisfying addition to your dish.
Vanilla Ice Cream: If you choose to serve the focaccia for dessert, a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side melts beautifully into the warm bread, creating the ultimate indulgent treat.

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Roll Focaccia

Room Temperature: Store leftover Cinnamon Roll Focaccia wrapped in foil at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its fluffy texture.

Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven to restore the lovely warmth.

Freezer: If you need to keep it longer, freeze slices of the focaccia for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe bags, removing excess air before sealing.

Reheating: To enjoy frozen slices, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, ensuring it’s warm and inviting!

Cinnamon Roll Focaccia Recipe FAQs

What type of flour is best for Cinnamon Roll Focaccia?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for the best results, as it provides the ideal structure and texture for the dough. You want it to be fluffy and tender, and all-purpose flour truly delivers that balance.

How should I store leftover Cinnamon Roll Focaccia?
Store any leftover Cinnamon Roll Focaccia wrapped in foil at room temperature for 1-2 days to keep its fluffy texture intact. If you have a larger quantity, you can transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Focaccia?
Absolutely! You can freeze slices of the Cinnamon Roll Focaccia for up to 3 months. For best results, place the slices in freezer-safe bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing them. This will help preserve the dough’s texture and flavor.

What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
If your dough isn’t rising as expected, it could be due to a few factors. First, check that your yeast is fresh. Instant yeast should fizz in warm water (90°F to 100°F) when activated—if it doesn’t, it may be dead. Also, make sure your dough is kept in a warm, draft-free spot; temperatures around 82°F to 86°F are ideal for rising.

Can I make this Cinnamon Roll Focaccia ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the dough up to step six and then refrigerate it overnight before the final rise. Just cover it tightly in the refrigerator to prevent it from drying out, and then allow it to come to room temperature and rise before baking. It’s a great way to save time on a busy morning!

Is it safe for pets, and does it contain common allergens?
The Cinnamon Roll Focaccia contains wheat and dairy, which can be allergens for some individuals. It’s best to keep it away from pets as well, especially due to the sugar content and the presence of ingredients like cinnamon, which isn’t advisable for cats and dogs in larger amounts. Always check for specific allergies or dietary restrictions!