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Freshly baked Cranberry Focaccia Bread topped with cranberries and herbs.

Cranberry Focaccia Bread

A delightful and comforting Cranberry Focaccia Bread that combines soft dough with sweet tart cranberries, perfect for any cozy evening or family dinner.
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Bread, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Baking
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 3-1/4 cups all-purpose flour Ensure it's well measured for perfect texture.
  • 1 packet Fleischmann's® RapidRise Yeast Quick and dependable yeast.
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar Helps yeast and balances flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt Essential for enhancing flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Adds a warm, comforting note.
  • 1-1/2 cups water Warm water helps activate the yeast.
  • 4 tablespoons melted butter, divided Adds richness and buttery flavor.
  • 1/3 cup light brown sugar Gives caramel-like sweetness.
  • 3/4 cups dried cranberries Provides tartness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, dry yeast, granulated sugar, salt, and ground cinnamon, stirring until blended.
  2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the water with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Microwave this mixture on high in 15-second bursts until it’s very warm but not hot to the touch, aiming for 120° to 130°F.
  3. Add the warm mixture to the flour blend and stir until well mixed; the dough will start forming.
  4. Press the dough evenly into a sprayed 9x13 baking dish.
  5. Cover the pan with a clean towel and let it rest in a warm place until double in size, about 30 minutes.
  6. Once risen, gently poke holes every inch or so into the dough.
  7. Brush or drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter over the top.
  8. Evenly sprinkle the light brown sugar and cranberries over the dough, pressing the cranberries gently into it.
  9. Let it rise uncovered for another 15 minutes while preheating the oven to 375°F.
Baking
  1. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown.
  2. Let it cool slightly before cutting and serve warm.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also freeze slices for later use. To enhance flavors, consider adding a sprinkle of coarse sea salt before baking or using fresh cranberries with adjusted sugar.