If you are a fan of tangy, bold flavors combined with soft, pillowy bread, you are going to absolutely love this Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread Recipe. It’s a delightful twist on the classic Italian focaccia that brings together the bright zest of dill pickles with creamy mozzarella and a garlicky, herb-infused sauce. Whether you want a unique appetizer, a snack that will impress your friends, or an unforgettable sandwich bread, this recipe hits all the right notes with its crunchy edges, rich toppings, and an irresistibly savory flavor profile.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you dive into making this Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread Recipe, take a moment to gather these simple but incredibly important ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role — from the active yeast that gives the bread its airy texture to the dill pickles that inject that signature tangy punch.
- Warm water (105°F to 115°F): Activates the yeast perfectly to give your dough the best rise.
- Active dry yeast: The magic behind your fluffy, light focaccia.
- Granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and balances flavors.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps create that crispy crust.
- Italian seasoning: Offers a fragrant blend of herbs for deep savory notes.
- Minced garlic: Infuses the bread with warm, aromatic flavor.
- Kosher salt: Enhances every other flavor without overpowering.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough with just the right gluten content.
- Sour cream: Makes the bread tender and adds a subtle tang.
- Mayonnaise: Contributes moisture and richness to the garlic sauce.
- Whole milk: Keeps the sauce creamy and smooth.
- Lemon juice: Brightens the sauce with fresh acidity.
- Dill weed: Strengthens the herbaceous aroma to pair beautifully with the pickles.
- Ground black pepper: Adds a gentle kick to balance the creaminess.
- Dill pickle slices: The star ingredient — tangy, crisp, and full of character.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to golden perfection, tying all the flavors together.
- Fresh dill: A finishing touch that enhances freshness and aroma.
How to Make Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread Recipe
Step 1: Make the Dough
Start by activating your yeast in warm water, combining it with sugar for the perfect bubbly start. Then stir in half of the olive oil mixture which is seasoned with Italian herbs, garlic, and salt to infuse flavor right from the start. Mixing in the flour creates your dough, which you’ll cover and let rise patiently until it doubles — this usually takes about an hour. This step is fundamental because it sets the base for the soft yet airy texture that focaccia is known for.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Sauce
While your dough is doing its magic, mix together sour cream, mayonnaise, milk, lemon juice, garlic, dill weed, salt, and pepper to make a creamy, tangy sauce. This garlic sauce is what transforms the focaccia from ordinary bread to something truly memorable, complementing the dill pickles with lush creaminess and a touch of brightness.
Step 3: Preheat Oven and Prepare Skillet
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) to ensure a hot baking environment that gives the focaccia a golden, crispy crust. Next, pour the remaining half of your seasoned olive oil into a 12-inch cast-iron skillet. Use a pastry brush to coat every corner with the fragrant oil since this will prevent sticking and add to the flavor depth.
Step 4: Assemble the Focaccia
Gently press your risen dough into the skillet, pushing it all the way to the edges. Then create those classic focaccia dimples by gently pressing your fingertips into the dough. Spread your luscious garlic sauce evenly over the dough’s surface, arrange dill pickle slices in a visually pleasing pattern, and generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese all over. This layering creates a stunning and tasty combination that will bake into a golden masterpiece.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your focaccia for 22 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on the crust and the cheese — you want the crust to take on a beautiful golden brown color and the cheese to be bubbling and slightly browned. This step is where everything comes together, melding flavors and textures into one harmonious bite.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped dill over the top to add a burst of color and fresh herbal aroma, completing this Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread Recipe with a lovely, fresh finish.
How to Serve Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh dill really shines as a finishing touch to this focaccia. It enhances the herby notes already present and brightens the rich, creamy, and tangy layers of flavor. You can also add a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few extra minced pickles on top for an extra flavor surprise.
Side Dishes
This focaccia pairs beautifully with light, crisp salads or a bowl of tomato basil soup. The acidity and creaminess in the bread complement fresh greens and the comforting warmth of a savory soup. It also makes a fantastic side alongside charcuterie boards or fresh dips like hummus or tzatziki.
Creative Ways to Present
You can transform this focaccia into a delightful sandwich bread by slicing it horizontally and layering it with deli meats, cheeses, or roasted vegetables. Another fun idea is to cut the focaccia into small squares and serve as party bites topped with dollops of cream cheese and extra pickle slices.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your leftover dill pickle focaccia tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will keep well at room temperature for 2 to 3 days while maintaining softness and flavor. Refrigeration can dry it out, so it’s best to consume within this window.
Freezing
This focaccia freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.
Reheating
To bring the focaccia back to life, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crust crisp and the cheese melted just perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use regular pickles instead of dill pickles?
While you can experiment with other pickles, freshly sliced dill pickles are recommended for that signature tang and herbaceous flavor that complements the garlic and cheese beautifully in this recipe.
Is it necessary to use a cast-iron skillet?
A cast-iron skillet is ideal because it helps the focaccia bake evenly and develop that beautiful crispy crust, but a heavy-duty oven-safe pan or baking sheet will work if you don’t have cast iron.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it. This slow fermentation can actually enhance the flavors, but be sure to bring it to room temperature before assembling and baking.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the garlic sauce?
If you prefer, use Greek yogurt or extra sour cream for a slightly tangier but equally creamy sauce. These alternatives keep the sauce moist and flavorful.
Can I add other toppings to the focaccia?
Absolutely! Chopped onions, olives, or crispy bacon bits pair wonderfully with the base flavors. Just be mindful that dill pickles remain the star in this Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread Recipe.
Final Thoughts
There is something undeniably special about this Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread Recipe — it combines unexpected flavors in a way that feels both comforting and exciting. If you’re looking to impress guests or just treat yourself to something unique and delicious, I highly encourage you to try this recipe. The satisfying crunch, the tangy pickles, and that garlicky, cheesy goodness will quickly make it a favorite you’ll want to bake again and again.
Print
Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread combines the tangy crunch of dill pickles with the savory flavors of garlic and mozzarella cheese, all nestled in a soft, golden focaccia crust. Enhanced with a garlic-dill sauce and Italian seasoning, this unique bread is perfect as a snack, appetizer, or a flavorful side to any meal.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water (105°F to 115°F)
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- â…“ cup extra virgin olive oil (divided)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced (divided)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (for dough)
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
Garlic Sauce Ingredients
- ¾ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon dill weed
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (for sauce)
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Toppings
- 25–30 dill pickle slices
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh dill, roughly chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it rest for 5 minutes to activate the yeast. In a separate small bowl, mix together olive oil, Italian seasoning, 2 teaspoons minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Pour half of this oil mixture into the yeast mixture, then add the flour and stir until the dough begins to come together. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare the garlic sauce: In a medium bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, whole milk, lemon juice, remaining minced garlic, dill weed, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Stir thoroughly until the sauce is smooth and well mixed.
- Preheat oven and prepare skillet: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Pour the remaining half of the olive oil mixture into a 12-inch cast-iron skillet. Use a pastry brush to evenly coat the bottom and sides of the skillet with the oil to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Assemble focaccia: Once the dough has risen, transfer it into the prepared skillet. Press the dough evenly to the edges, then use your fingers to create characteristic dimples across the surface. Spread the garlic sauce evenly over the dough. Arrange the dill pickle slices evenly across the top and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake the focaccia: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 22-25 minutes. Bake until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned on top.
- Serve: Remove the focaccia from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped dill before slicing and serving warm.
Notes
- Ensure your water is within the specified temperature range to activate the yeast properly without killing it.
- For best flavor, use a good quality extra virgin olive oil and fresh garlic.
- If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, any oven-safe skillet or baking dish will work, though the crust’s texture may vary slightly.
- You can substitute dill pickle slices with chopped pickles if preferred, and adjust quantity to taste.
- Fresh dill garnish adds a burst of flavor and fresh aroma; do not skip this step for best presentation and taste.
- Store leftovers wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Reheat focaccia in a toaster oven or conventional oven to keep the crust crispy.
