Sweet Fruited Focaccia Recipes

DESSERT FOCACCIA

Steps:

• In the mixer bowl, dissolve the sugar in the water. Sprinkle the yeast over the warm water mixture and let it stand for 10 minutes, until it foams. Combine 3 cups of the flour, salt and cinnamon. Add to the yeast mixture. Slowly turn on the machine and work the dough together. Turn it up to medium and mix for 5 minutes. If the dough is sticky, continue mixing and gradually add the remaining flour. Place this smooth ball of dough in an oiled bowl , cover and set aside to rise for 3 hours. Preheat the grill and preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Punch down the dough, remove it from the bowl onto a lightly oiled 9x13-inch sheet tray. Spread out the dough on the tray. Using your fingertips, make "dimples" in the dough. Using the olive oil, lightly oil the pears and place them on the grill. Meanwhile, mix the honey, mascarpone, and the mint together. Spread this mixture on the dough. Turn the pears and cook for 1 more minute. Top the dough with the grilled pears. Bake for 25 minutes.

FRESH FRUIT FOCACCIA

Steps:

• Directions: Place all of the dough ingredients except the softened butter in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix on low speed until a cohesive dough is formed. Switch to the dough hook, add the butter, and knead on low speed for 10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in bulk, about 1 1/2 hours. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured work surface and knead briefly. Form into a ball and transfer to a lightly greased baking sheet or pizza pan. Shape into a 14-inch circle, being sure to leave a thicker rim around the edges. Cover again with a kitchen towel and let rise while you prepare the topping. To make the topping, mix the egg yolk, half-and-half, vanilla, sugar and salt until smooth. Once the dough has risen a bit and is beginning to look puffy, dimple the dough all over with your fingers (oil them a bit if the dough is sticky). Layer with fresh berries or fruit, sprinkle with nuts (if using) and chocolate chips. Drizzle the egg yolk and cream mixture over all. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the crust is lightly browned and the cream mixture looks set. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Serve while still warm and chocolate is gooey.