Flavorful Mini Cherry Tomato Focaccia

There's something charming about miniature versions of beloved foods. Cherry Tomato Mini Focaccia takes this concept to new heights. These bite-sized treats are the perfect blend of crispy, airy bread and the juicy sweetness of fresh tomatoes. Typically enjoyed as an appetizer or a delicious side dish, these mini focaccias can elevate any meal. Whether it's a casual weeknight dinner, a vibrant garden party, or a sophisticated gathering, they fit right into the occasion. Making these miniature focaccias is surprisingly simple. The focaccia base enriched with olive oil and aromatic herbs forms the foundation, with a topping of fresh cherry tomatoes. A quick bake transforms them into golden perfection with a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior.

What are Mini Cherry Tomato Focaccias?

Mini Cherry Tomato Focaccia is an appetizer or side dish featuring the perfect combination of crispy, airy focaccia bread and juicy fresh tomatoes. It's essentially a miniature version of the classic Italian flatbread, transformed into bite-sized, flavor-packed breads. The origins of focaccia itself can be traced back to ancient Rome, but the modern version we know and love evolved in the Liguria region of Italy. It's believed that the concept of miniaturizing focaccia, as we see it today, is a more recent culinary innovation, possibly born from the desire for convenient and shareable hors d'oeuvres.

Did you know that the characteristic dimples on focaccia bread were originally created to allow salt to melt evenly into the dough? Today, they serve as a decorative touch and help to create a crispy crust.

Tips

• Invest in high-quality extra virgin olive oil. This will significantly improve the flavor of the focaccia, imparting a rich, fruity taste.
• Allow ample time for the dough to rise. Patience is key. A fully risen dough will produce a light, airy texture that is characteristic of great focaccia.
• Handle the dough gently during mixing and shaping. Excessive kneading can develop the gluten structure too much, resulting in a tough bread.
• Select tomatoes at their peak ripeness. The sweetness and juiciness of ripe tomatoes are essential for a truly delicious mini focaccia.
• Don't be afraid to experiment with different topping combinations. While classic tomato and basil pairing is popular, consider adding other flavorful ingredients such as olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh herbs.
• Ensure your baking sheet is thoroughly preheated. This will help create a crisp, golden bottom crust for your mini focaccia.
• Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. Spacing the mini focaccia adequately will allow them to rise properly and bake evenly.
• Finish with a generous sprinkle of flaky sea salt. This enhances the flavor of the focaccia and adds a nice texture.

What Kind of Tomatoes Are Best for Mini Tomato Focaccia?

Cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes are ideal for mini tomato focaccia due to their size and sweetness.

Can I Use Dry Yeast Instead of Fresh?

Yes, you can! Typically, you would use about one-third of the amount of fresh yeast when substituting with dry yeast. So for 7g of fresh yeast, you would use about 2.3g of dry yeast. Mix the dry yeast directly with the flour, just as you would with fresh yeast.

Can I Use Other Toppings on Mini Tomato Focaccia?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different toppings like olives, red onions, fresh basil, or even crumbled goat cheese.

How Do I Prevent the Bottom of The Mini Focaccia From Burning?

To prevent burning, you can preheat your baking sheet or use parchment paper. Additionally, keep a close eye on the focaccia while it's baking.

Why Is My Focaccia Tough?

Overbaking or not enough water in the dough can lead to a tough focaccia.

Can I Freeze These Mini Focaccias?

Of course! After baking, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven. This will help preserve their texture and flavor.

More Focaccia Recipes for You!

Cherry Tomato and Olives Focaccia

Potato Rosemary Focaccia Bread

Ricotta & Spinach Focaccia Bread

Onion Focaccia

How to Store Mini Tomato Focaccia

Store the Mini Tomato Focaccia in an airtight container (at room temperature) for up to 2 days.

How To Make Mini Tomato Focaccia

In a large bowl, whisk together flour and fresh yeast.

Add warm milk to the dry ingredients and stir until a shaggy dough forms.

Add the salt and mix further. Then add the olive oil and knead until a soft dough has formed.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.

Add a drizzle of oil and continue to knead until smooth.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.

Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.

Roll each piece into a ball and gently flatten it into desired shapes.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the mini focaccia on the prepared sheet. Cover the mini focaccia with cherry tomatoes.

Sprinkle with dried oregano, and drizzle with olive oil.

Bake in a preheated oven at 190°C (375°F) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.