If you’re seeking the ultimate reason to jump out of bed on a weekend, let me introduce you to the Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia: Sweet Bliss for Brunch Lovers. Imagine pillowy, golden bread, its surface freckled with jewel-like pools of raspberry jam, drizzled in a dreamy glaze—every slice tastes like the lovechild of a jelly donut and classic Italian focaccia. Cozy, impressive, and satisfyingly sweet, this make-ahead treat captures all the joy of bakery mornings and lazy brunches, yet it’s easy enough for anyone to master.

Homemade Raspberry Jam Donut Focaccia Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s where the magic really starts: a handful of kitchen staples, each with an important role, join forces to create a soft, airy, sweet brunch masterpiece. Every ingredient below adds something special to our Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia: Sweet Bliss for Brunch Lovers, from texture and rise to luscious glaze and tart fruitiness.

Warm Water (1.75 cups, 105-115°F): The key to activating the yeast and bringing that mouthwatering lift to our bread.
Sugar (2 tsp, optional): Gives the yeast a jumpstart and adds just a hint of sweetness to the dough.
Active Dry Yeast (1 packet): The essential leavening that creates those signature focaccia bubbles.
Bread Flour (2 cups): Adds chew and a pillowy structure—subtle but important for donut vibes.
All-Purpose Flour (2 cups): Ensures a tender, light crumb without getting too dense.
Salt (2 tsp): Balances flavor and brings out the sweetness in the jam and glaze.
Olive Oil (6 tbsp, divided): Keeps the bread rich, golden, and flavorful with that classic focaccia texture.
Raspberry Preserves (1 jar): The heart of this dish; each spoonful delivers vibrant, tart berry flavor. Swap with your favorite jam if you wish!
Confectioners’ Sugar (2 cups): The foundation for our billowy sweet glaze—so classic, so irresistible.
Whole Milk (2-4 tbsp, as needed): Loosens the glaze for just the right drizzle consistency.

How to Make Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia: Sweet Bliss for Brunch Lovers

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by waking up your yeast with a cozy bath. In a small bowl, stir together the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for five minutes until bubbly. This is your moment to check the yeast is fresh and alive—the bubbles mean it’s ready to bring the dough to life!

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In the bowl of a stand mixer (or with good old-fashioned elbow grease in a large bowl), combine the yeast mixture with the bread flour, all-purpose flour, and salt. Using a dough hook or sturdy spoon, mix on low until a sticky dough forms. Don’t worry if it’s a bit messy—sticky dough is the secret to that cloud-like crumb.

Step 3: First Rise

Generously grease a large bowl with olive oil. Scoop your dough into the bowl, turning it to coat and keep it moist. Cover the bowl with a clean towel, set it in a warm spot, and let it rise for about an hour or until doubled. You’ll love watching the dough puff up—imagine all the homemade goodness brewing inside!

Step 4: Transfer and Second Rise

Drizzle some olive oil into a 9×13-inch baking pan, then gently punch down the dough and transfer it to the pan. Fold the dough over on itself a couple of times to coat with oil, creating layers of flavor. Cover loosely and let rise for another hour. Patience truly pays off here and gets you that jam donut texture.

Step 5: Preheat the Oven

Before the big reveal, preheat your oven to 425°F. This gives the baking pan and focaccia a warm welcome and ensures the dough starts to puff and brown the moment it goes in.

Step 6: Add the Jam

Once the second rise is complete, poke deep holes across the dough’s surface with your fingers—classic focaccia style! Now, spoon raspberry preserves generously over the top, letting the sweet fruit drip into the dimpled dough. This step transforms your focaccia into a real Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia: Sweet Bliss for Brunch Lovers style treat.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes until the focaccia is beautifully golden and the jam has caramelized in spots. If you want extra fruity pools, you can add a bit more preserves the moment it comes out, before the bread cools. The aroma alone is guaranteed to fill your kitchen with joy.

Step 8: Glaze the Focaccia

While the focaccia cools slightly, whisk together confectioners’ sugar and whole milk until you have a thick, glossy glaze. Pour or spread it generously over the jammy top—watch it drip into the holes, mingling with the preserves, and transforming each slice into a sweet, sticky delight.

Step 9: Slice and Serve

Once the glaze sets just a little, cut the focaccia into big, generous squares. For the freshest, fluffiest experience, serve while still a touch warm—you won’t be able to resist diving right in!

How to Serve Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia: Sweet Bliss for Brunch Lovers

Garnishes

Dust the finished focaccia with extra confectioners’ sugar for a bakery touch, or scatter over fresh raspberries to echo that jammy center. A little fresh lemon zest or a pinch of sea salt flakes on top can also add a sparkling accent and elevate the homemade Jam Donut Focaccia: Sweet Bliss for Brunch Lovers experience to brunch centerpiece status.

Side Dishes

Pair slices with tangy Greek yogurt and fresh cut fruit for a balanced brunch spread. It also loves the company of a velvety cappuccino, a pot of black tea, or even a mimosa. Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia: Sweet Bliss for Brunch Lovers is just as stunning next to a platter of salty smoked salmon or simple eggs, balancing savory and sweet on the table.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the focaccia squares on a wooden board for a rustic-chic display, or serve individually on vintage dessert plates for a tea party feel. For festive mornings or holidays, you can drizzle the glaze in zig-zags, add sprinkles, or even cut the bread into rounds for a true donut shape. However you style it, Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia: Sweet Bliss for Brunch Lovers is guaranteed to wow!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Not that you’re likely to have much left, but if you do, store slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The crumb stays surprisingly soft, and the flavors meld beautifully as they rest, making next-day brunch just as delightful.

Freezing

Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia: Sweet Bliss for Brunch Lovers is quite freezer friendly! Once cooled and sliced, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place in zip-top bags. Freeze for up to two months—just remember to defrost at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

To refresh that just-baked magic, warm slices in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes or microwave for 15–20 seconds. This revives the pillowy softness and brings out the gentle sweetness, ready to enjoy any time of day. A quick blast in the oven crisps the bottom beautifully, while the glaze stays luscious.

FAQs

Can I use other types of jam besides raspberry?

Absolutely! Any fruit preserve or jam you love—think strawberry, blueberry, or apricot—works beautifully in Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia: Sweet Bliss for Brunch Lovers. Just make sure it’s thick and vibrant for best results.

What if I don’t have bread flour?

No worries—simply use all-purpose flour for the full amount. You’ll get a slightly less chewy but still delicious texture, and the focaccia will retain its soft, fluffy bite.

Can I make this ahead for a party brunch?

Definitely! Make the focaccia the day before, glaze it once cool, and store tightly covered. For best results, rewarm just before serving to reactivate the pillowy, jammy delight.

Is it possible to make this focaccia vegan?

Yes, with a few swaps: use plant-based milk for the glaze and double-check your sugar and preserves for vegan certifications. It’s a versatile recipe that adapts easily to dietary needs.

Do I need a stand mixer to make this recipe?

A stand mixer makes things easier, but you can absolutely mix and knead by hand with a sturdy spoon and a little patience. Just work the dough until it’s smooth and stretchy—homemade love is always the best ingredient!

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to treat your brunch crowd to something unexpected, memorable, and downright delicious, don’t wait to try Homemade Jam Donut Focaccia: Sweet Bliss for Brunch Lovers. Gather your friends, share a warm slice, and create a tradition that’s as joyful and comforting as the aroma in your kitchen. Happy baking!

Homemade Raspberry Jam Donut Focaccia Recipe