Focaccia Toppings 101: Delicious Ideas for Every Season

Focaccia bread is one of those simple pleasures that feels like a little luxury. Golden, fluffy, and infused with the best olive oil, it’s delicious on its own, but what really makes it special are the toppings. Whether you love savory, sweet, or something in between, choosing the right focaccia toppings can turn a humble loaf into a show-stopping centerpiece.

In this post, I’ll explore some of the best focaccia toppings, the most flavorful focaccia herbs, and some smart tips on how to prevent those toppings from burning in the oven.

Best Focaccia Toppings to Try

When it comes to focaccia toppings, the possibilities are endless. A few classic, but unique choices that I really like include:

• Cherry tomatoes and basil – a fresh, summery combo that adds color and sweetness. If you can, use a mix of different colors for even more visual interest and flavor!
• Red onions and olives – a Mediterranean-style topping that brings out savory depth.
• Caramelized onions, rosemary, and sweet potatoes – a comforting mix that’s perfect for cooler weather. You can replace sweet potatoes with butternut squash, too.
• Garlic and parmesan – for those who love a bold, flavorful punch.
• Black olives, a mix of seeds, and flaky salt – I use this basic combo in my recipe for no-knead whole wheat focaccia, and it works like a charm!
• Figs, grapes, and blue cheese – a sweet-savory contrast that works beautifully for brunch or appetizers. It’s probably my summer favorite!

Don’t be afraid to get creative – seasonal vegetables, thinly sliced potatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, or even fruit can make your focaccia bread really stand out.

Choosing the Right Focaccia Herbs

Herbs play a huge role in flavoring your focaccia. Some of the best focaccia herbs include:

• Rosemary – the classic choice. Its woody, aromatic quality pairs perfectly with olive oil and sea salt.
• Thyme – more subtle, with earthy tones that blend well with both sweet and savory toppings.
• Sage – also one of the more sturdy herbs. Goes great with pumpkin and sausages!
• Oregano – ideal for a more Italian-inspired flavor. Works great with olives and tomatoes.
• Basil – best added after baking to preserve its bright, fresh flavor.
• Chives or parsley – Perfect for finishing touches and extra color.

How to Prevent Focaccia Toppings from Burning

One common issue with focaccia is burnt toppings, especially delicate ones like garlic, herbs, or cheese. Here are a few ways to avoid that:

• Add delicate toppings halfway through baking – garlic slices, fresh herbs, or cheese can burn quickly. Adding them after 10–12 minutes in the oven helps prevent this.
• Brush toppings with olive oil – a light coating of olive oil protects them from drying out and helps them cook evenly.
• Cover loosely with foil if needed – if your toppings start to brown too fast, loosely cover the top with foil during the last few minutes.
• Avoid overcrowding – too many toppings can trap steam or create uneven cooking. Less is often more when it comes to focaccia, although I know how hard it can be to resist adding a lot of ingredients.

So there you have it – everything you wanted to know about focaccia toppings. You’re now officially too fancy for plain bread. Whether you go with caramelized onions that took you 45 minutes (but hey, who’s counting?) or slap on some olives and call it a day, your focaccia is going to look like it belongs in a magazine. Also, don’t miss my article about how to choose what to serve with focaccia. I’ve selected great breakfast, lunch, and dinner ideas for you!

And just remember: if your toppings burn, it’s not personal – it’s probably your oven being dramatic. Use the olive oil trick, cover with foil like you’re tucking it in for a nap, and you’ll be golden (literally).

Now go forth and top that bread like the culinary artist you are. And if it doesn’t look perfect? Just call it rustic. Works every time.