Apple Focaccia with Blue Cheese and Herbs

Ingredients:

    For the Focaccia Dough:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon instant yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
  • For the Topping:

  • 1 large apple, thinly sliced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • ½ cup blue cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tablespoon dried)
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
  • Sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions:

  1. Make the Dough:
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, and salt. Gradually add warm water and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix until a soft dough forms.
  2. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
  3. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  4. Preheat the Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly with olive oil.
  5. Shape the Focaccia:
    Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet. Press and stretch the dough out to fit the shape of the pan, creating dimples with your fingers.
  6. Add the Toppings:
    Arrange the apple slices evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese, chopped rosemary, and thyme over the top. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil and honey if using.
  7. Sprinkle a generous pinch of sea salt over the focaccia.
  8. Bake:
    Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and the edges are crispy.
  9. Cool and Serve:
    Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.