Cozy Jam Donut Focaccia — Dreamy Jam-Filled Focaccia Bread

If you love soft donuts and fluffy bread, this jam donut focaccia recipe combines the best of both worlds. Imagine pillowy sweet focaccia bread infused with butter, filled with vibrant jam, and finished with a generous dusting of powdered sugar. The result is a dessert that feels nostalgic, cozy, and irresistibly indulgent.

Inspired by classic Italian Focaccia, this version transforms savory bread into a dreamy, donut-style treat. Instead of rosemary and olive oil, we use sugar, milk, butter, and fruit jam to create a tender, slightly sweet crumb that tastes like a bakery-style donut—only easier to make at home.

This fluffy sweet focaccia is perfect for brunch tables, holiday gatherings, afternoon coffee breaks, or whenever comfort food calls.

---

What Is Jam Donut Focaccia?

Traditional focaccia is known for its airy structure and signature dimples. In this sweet adaptation, the dough is enriched with milk and butter, making it softer and more tender than classic savory versions.

The jam is either swirled through the top or tucked into the dimples before baking. As it bakes, it melts slightly into the dough, creating pockets of fruity sweetness throughout.

The texture is:

• Fluffy and airy
• Lightly crisp on the edges
• Soft and buttery inside
• Sweet but not overpowering

---

Ingredients

Sweet Focaccia Dough

• 3 ½ cups bread flour
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)
• ¼ cup warm water
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Filling & Topping

• ¾ cup strawberry or raspberry jam
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)
• ½ cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

---

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to perfect donut style focaccia lies in:

• Proper yeast activation
• Enriched dough with milk and butter
• Adequate proofing time
• Gentle dimpling technique

Unlike traditional donuts, there’s no frying involved. Baking gives it a lighter feel while maintaining that nostalgic jam-donut flavor.

---

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm milk, warm water, and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.

2. Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and melted butter. Mix until a soft dough forms.

3. Knead

Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky.

4. First Rise

Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

5. Prepare the Pan

Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with olive oil.

6. Shape and Second Rise

Transfer dough to the pan and gently stretch it to fill the corners. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.

7. Dimple the Dough

Using your fingertips, press deep dimples across the surface.

8. Add Jam

Spoon jam into the dimples and lightly swirl for a marbled effect.

9. Bake

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 22–25 minutes until golden brown on top.

10. Finish

Brush warm focaccia with melted butter and dust generously with powdered sugar.

---

Texture & Flavor

This jam-filled focaccia delivers:

• Soft donut-like crumb
• Fruity bursts from jam pockets
• Buttery richness
• Light crisp exterior
• Balanced sweetness

It tastes like a bakery treat but feels homemade and comforting.

---

Tips for Perfect Sweet Focaccia

Don’t Overheat the Milk

Too hot liquid can kill yeast. Aim for warm, not hot.

Let It Rise Fully

Under-proofed dough results in dense texture.

Use Thick Jam

Runny jam can sink too much into the dough.

Generous Dimpling

Deep dimples help hold the jam beautifully.

---

Flavor Variations

Mixed Berry

Combine strawberry and blueberry jam.

Lemon Curd

Use lemon curd for bright citrus flavor.

Nutella Swirl

Replace jam with chocolate hazelnut spread.

Cinnamon Sugar Finish

Skip powdered sugar and sprinkle cinnamon sugar before baking.

---

Serving Suggestions

This fluffy sweet focaccia is ideal for:

• Weekend brunch
• Afternoon tea
• Holiday dessert tables
• Potlucks
• School events

Serve warm for maximum softness or at room temperature for easy slicing.

Pair with:

• Coffee
• Latte
• Hot chocolate
• Fresh fruit

---

Storage Tips

• Store covered at room temperature for 2 days.
• Refrigerate up to 4 days.
• Freeze slices individually for up to 2 months.

Reheat slightly in microwave for a fresh-from-the-oven feel.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant yeast?

Yes. Skip proofing step and mix directly with dry ingredients.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes. Prepare dough the night before and refrigerate after first rise.

Can I use all-purpose flour?

Yes, but bread flour gives better structure and chew.

---

Why You’ll Love This Jam Donut Focaccia Recipe

This sweet focaccia bread transforms simple pantry ingredients into a comforting dessert that feels both rustic and special. It’s easier than making donuts, less messy than frying, and still delivers that nostalgic jam-filled flavor everyone loves.

The airy crumb, buttery finish, and powdered sugar topping create a dessert that disappears quickly at any gathering.

---

Final Thoughts

Cozy Jam Donut Focaccia is proof that classic bread can become something extraordinary with a little creativity. Soft, fluffy, and filled with fruity sweetness, it offers the charm of a homemade donut with the elegance of artisan bread.

Once you try this jam-filled focaccia, it may become your go-to sweet bread for holidays, brunches, and cozy weekends at home.