Dessert

Jam Donut Focaccia Recipe

ByNaomi Fletcher April 3, 2026April 3, 2026

Introduction

Jam Donut Focaccia is a delightful fusion of fluffy focaccia bread and sweet, gooey jam that’s perfect for brunch. This simple yet impressive recipe fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and delivers a delicious treat that everyone will love.

A golden-brown rectangular focaccia bread with a shiny, slightly oily surface sits on a white marbled board; it has a soft, puffy texture with multiple deep dimples filled with bright red cherry pieces, and a small sprig of fresh green thyme gently placed on top. In the background, there is a white bowl filled with more cherries and a stack of white plates, all set against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1¾ cups warm water (105-115°F)
2 tsp sugar (optional if using instant yeast)
1 packet active dry yeast
2 cups bread flour (can substitute with all-purpose flour)
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp salt
6 tbsp olive oil, divided
1 jar raspberry preserves (or any jam you prefer)
2 cups confectioners’ sugar
2-4 tbsp whole milk (as needed for glaze consistency)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, mix warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit until bubbly, about 5 minutes, to activate the yeast.
Step 2: In a stand mixer, combine the bubbly yeast mixture with bread flour, all-purpose flour, and salt. Mix on low speed until a sticky dough forms, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Lightly grease another bowl with olive oil. Transfer the dough into this bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, roughly 1 hour.
Step 4: Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with olive oil. Punch down the dough gently to release air and transfer it into the pan. Cover loosely and let it rise for another hour.
Step 5: Preheat your oven to 425°F while the dough is undergoing its second rise.
Step 6: After the second rise, make deep dimples all over the dough using your fingers. Spread raspberry preserves generously over the surface, letting some fill the dimples.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, until the focaccia is golden brown on top. Optionally, add more preserves after removing it from the oven.
Step 8: In a medium bowl, whisk confectioners’ sugar with 2-4 tablespoons of whole milk until smooth and drizzleable.
Step 9: Cut the focaccia into squares and drizzle with the sweet glaze. Serve fresh and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use different jams like strawberry, apricot, or blueberry for unique flavors.
Add lemon or orange zest to the glaze for a tangy twist.
Fold in chopped nuts such as almonds or walnuts into the dough for extra texture.
Substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk to make the glaze dairy-free.
Mix dried herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for a savory-sweet balance.
Try a chocolate glaze instead of the sugar glaze for a decadent touch.
Sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for warm, cozy spices.
Use a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Storage

Store leftover Jam Donut Focaccia at room temperature wrapped in plastic wrap or an airtight container for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the focaccia without glaze in an airtight freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. To reheat, warm slices in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to restore fluffiness. Add the glaze just before serving if frozen.

How to Serve

The image shows a rectangular focaccia bread with a golden brown, shiny crust that looks soft and slightly puffy. There are small round indentations across the top surface, each filled with a bright red cherry or similar fruit jam, giving a contrast of glossy red spots against the warm beige-brown bread. A small green sprig of fresh thyme lies on top at the center, adding a touch of color and texture. The focaccia is placed on a white marbled surface, with a blurred bowl of red cherries and stacked white plates in the background. The lighting highlights the bread's glossy and slightly oily texture, making it look fresh and appetizing. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What type of jam works best for the filling?

You can use any jam you love! Raspberry is popular, but strawberry, apricot, or mixed berry jams work just as well. Choose a thick jam to prevent it from running out of the dimples during baking.

How should I store my leftover Jam Donut Focaccia?

Keep leftovers at room temperature, wrapped tightly or in an airtight container, for up to 2 days. This keeps the focaccia soft and fresh.

Can I freeze Jam Donut Focaccia?

Yes, freeze it without the glaze in an airtight bag for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven before serving. Add glaze fresh after reheating.

What can I do if my dough isn’t rising?

Ensure your yeast is fresh and the water temperature is between 105-115°F. If needed, place the dough in a warm, draft-free spot such as an oven with the light on to encourage rising.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?

To make it dairy-free, substitute whole milk in the glaze with plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Also, check jam labels for any allergens if serving guests with dietary restrictions.

How long does this recipe take to prepare?

The total time including rising and baking is about 2.5 to 3 hours. Active preparation requires only 30-40 minutes, with most of the time for letting the dough rise to achieve light fluffiness.

Naomi Fletcher