Cherry Almond Focaccia

Imagine the delightful aroma of fresh-baked bread wafting through your cozy kitchen, complemented by the sweet and tangy flavors of juicy cherries and crunchy almonds. Our Cherry Almond Focaccia recipe is a delightful twist on a classic bread, perfect for a weekend baking project or a special treat for your loved ones. This recipe combines the warmth of homemade focaccia with the vibrant flavors of cherries and the nutty crunch of almonds, creating a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Let’s get started on creating this tempting Cherry Almond Focaccia that will surely become a new favorite in your baking repertoire.

**Cherry Almond Focaccia**

**Ingredients:**
– 1 package (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tbsp honey
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for brushing
– 1 cup pitted cherries, halved
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 tsp almond extract
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar

**Instructions:**
1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, honey, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture and olive oil, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Punch down the dough and roll it out into a rectangle on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Using your fingertips, make indentations all over the dough. Drizzle with olive oil.
7. In a small bowl, combine the cherries, almonds, granulated sugar, and almond extract. Spread this mixture evenly over the dough.
8. Bake the focaccia in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and baked through.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack.
10. Dust with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.

Experience the joy of baking your own Cherry Almond Focaccia, bringing together the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors in every bite. Whether enjoyed as a delightful breakfast treat, a midday snack, or a charming dessert, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike. Embrace the warmth of home-baked goodness with this delicious Cherry Almond Focaccia that will become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the process of creating this delightful bread and savor the delightful flavors that make it truly special. Happy baking!