Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread Recipe

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If you’re anything like me, you know there’s something magic about combining unexpected flavors into one unforgettable bite. Enter the delightful world of Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread—a crispy, golden focaccia crust layered with a creamy garlic sauce, tangy dill pickles, and melty mozzarella cheese. It’s like the best pickle pizza meets a classic Italian bread, bringing a burst of flavor that’s fresh, savory, and downright addictive. Every bite delivers that satisfying crunch intertwined with zesty dill goodness that makes this bread impossible to resist. Whether you’re serving it as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a scrumptious main dish, Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread quickly becomes the hero of any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create layers of flavor and texture in this recipe. Each one plays a key role—from the warm water that wakes up the yeast, to the garlic sauce that brings everything to life, and the star of the show, dill pickles, that add that unmistakable tangy punch.

• 1 cup warm water (105°F to 115°F): The perfect temperature to activate the yeast for a fluffy dough.
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast: The magical ingredient that helps your focaccia rise to soft perfection.
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness that nurtures the yeast and balances flavors.
• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil: Adds moisture and that classic, rich focaccia softness.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that layers subtle herbs into the dough.
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic: Infuses bold, savory notes throughout the bread.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor and strengthens the dough.
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The structure builder for that perfect focaccia crumb.
• ¾ cup sour cream: Creates a tender, slightly tangy crumb in the garlic sauce.
• ¼ cup mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and body to the garlic sauce.
• 2 tablespoons whole milk: Helps blend the sauce ingredients smoothly.
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Brightens the garlic sauce with a clean acidity.
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic (additional): Packs an extra punch for the sauce.
• ½ teaspoon dill weed: The dill flavor boost that ties perfectly with the pickles.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt (additional): Balances the sauce and deepens flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: A hint of warmth and spice to complement the tang.
• 25-30 dill pickle slices: The star ingredient offering that irresistible crunchy tang.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Gooey, melty goodness that binds the toppings deliciously.
• Fresh dill (roughly chopped): A vibrant garnish that adds color and fresh herbal notes.

How to Make Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread

Step 1: Activate the yeast

Begin by combining the warm water, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar in a large bowl. Give it a little stir and let it rest for about 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture becomes foamy and bubbly—this means your yeast is alive and kickstarting the bread’s rise.

Step 2: Prepare the flavored olive oil

In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, and kosher salt. This seasoned oil will not only enhance the dough’s flavor but also add a luscious finish to your focaccia crust.

Step 3: Combine wet ingredients and flour

Pour half of the olive oil mixture into the yeast mixture and stir gently. Then gradually add the all-purpose flour, stirring until the dough begins to come together. The dough should feel slightly sticky but manageable—that’s exactly what you want for a tender focaccia texture.

Step 4: Let the dough rise

Transfer your dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour. It should double in size, making it airy and light—perfect for that fluffy focaccia bite.

Step 5: Make the creamy garlic-dill sauce

While the dough is rising, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, whole milk, lemon juice, minced garlic, dill weed, kosher salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. This sauce will layer a rich, tangy, and herbaceous flavor over the bread before it meets the pickles and cheese.

Step 6: Prepare the focaccia base

Preheat your oven to 450°F. Pour the remaining oil mixture into a well-oiled 12-inch cast-iron skillet, coating both the bottom and sides with a pastry brush. Press the risen dough evenly into the skillet, making sure it reaches all edges. Use your fingertips to create those classic focaccia dimples for texture and character.

Step 7: Assemble the toppings and bake

Evenly spread the garlic-dill sauce all over the dough’s surface. Next, arrange the dill pickle slices in a single layer on top of the sauce, then generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over everything. Bake for 22-25 minutes or until the crust turns a golden brown and the cheese bubbles with a beautiful caramelized finish.

Step 8: Garnish and serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped dill over the top for a bright, fresh herb touch that completes the dish. Slice it up, serve warm, and watch this Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread disappear in no time!

How to Serve Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread

Garnishes

Fresh dill is the go-to garnish here, adding that extra herbaceous note and a pop of color that takes your Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread from delicious to visually irresistible. You can also add a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top right after baking for a subtle crunch and flavor burst.

Side Dishes

This focaccia bread pairs beautifully with creamy soups like tomato bisque or a chilled cucumber salad to emphasize the dill and pickle flavors. A light green salad with lemon vinaigrette also brightens the meal and complements the tanginess of the bread perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, turn this Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread into an appetizer platter by cutting it into small squares or strips, perfect for dipping into ranch dressing or a smoky aioli. You could also serve it alongside charcuterie boards, where its unique flavor is a refreshing contrast to rich meats and cheeses.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers—though they’re unlikely to stick around—store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the focaccia soft while preventing the pickles from drying out or making the bread soggy.

Freezing

Wrap cooled focaccia tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, place the focaccia on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for about 8-10 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is gooey once again. This method preserves the crisp crust and fresh flavors.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pickle?

Absolutely! While dill pickles deliver that classic tang which shines in this recipe, bread and butter or spicy pickles could add a new twist. Just be mindful of the moisture content to avoid sogginess.

Do I have to use mozzarella cheese?

Mozzarella melts beautifully and complements the tang of the pickles perfectly, but feel free to experiment with provolone or even a mild cheddar for an interesting flavor change.

What if I don’t have a cast-iron skillet?

No worries! You can use a regular oven-safe baking dish or sheet pan, just make sure to generously oil it and spread the dough evenly for a great crust.

Is this bread very tangy because of the pickles?

The tanginess is balanced by the creamy garlic sauce and the cheese, creating a harmonious blend rather than an overpowering pickle taste. It’s bright without being overwhelming.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

You sure can! Prepare the dough, let it rise, then refrigerate it overnight. Just bring it back to room temperature before shaping and topping to ensure even baking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something truly unique that combines comfort with an exciting tangy twist, you’ve got to try making this Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread. It’s impressive yet approachable, packed with bold flavors and that satisfying focaccia texture we all love. Once you taste that creamy garlic sauce paired with melty cheese and crunchy dill pickles, you’ll be hooked. Trust me, this recipe deserves a spot at your table again and again!

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