Jam Donut Focaccia is what happens when a soft, pillowy Italian bread meets the nostalgic sweetness of a classic jelly doughnut. The golden crust is lightly crisp, the inside stays fluffy and tender, and every bite is filled with pockets of warm jam and a generous coating of sugar. It feels both comforting and a little unexpected, which makes it perfect for weekend baking.

This sweet focaccia is baked in a pan, dimpled with your fingertips, and layered with your favorite jam before finishing with a buttery sugar topping. It looks impressive when sliced, yet the process is simple enough for home bakers who want something special without complicated steps.

Why You’ll Love This Jam Donut Focaccia

This Jam Donut Focaccia brings together bakery style flavor with an easy, approachable method. The dough is soft and forgiving, making it ideal even if you are new to working with yeast. You can customize it with strawberry, raspberry, or even blueberry jam depending on what you have in your kitchen. It is perfect for brunch tables, holiday mornings, or as a sweet afternoon treat with coffee.

What Kind of Jam Works Best in Jam Donut Focaccia?

Thicker jams work best because they stay in place while the focaccia bakes. Strawberry and raspberry are classic choices that give you that true donut shop flavor, but seedless varieties create a smoother texture. If you prefer a slightly tangy contrast to the sweet dough, raspberry or mixed berry jam is a great option. Just avoid overly runny preserves since they can sink too deeply into the dough.

Ingredients for the Jam Donut Focaccia

The ingredients for Jam Donut Focaccia are simple pantry staples that come together to create a soft enriched dough with a sweet finish. Each component plays an important role in texture and flavor.

All Purpose Flour
Provides the structure for the focaccia while keeping the crumb soft and tender.
Warm Milk
Adds richness and helps activate the yeast for a fluffy texture.
Active Dry Yeast
Gives the dough its rise and airy interior.
Granulated Sugar
Sweetens the dough slightly and enhances that classic donut flavor.
Unsalted Butter
Adds moisture and richness both in the dough and brushed on top.
Eggs
Help create a soft, enriched dough with a beautiful golden color.
Salt
Balances the sweetness and strengthens the dough structure.
Strawberry or Raspberry Jam
Creates those signature fruity pockets throughout the focaccia.
Extra Sugar for Topping
Coats the top after baking for that true jam donut finish.

How To Make the Jam Donut Focaccia

Making Jam Donut Focaccia is a relaxed process that rewards you with a bakery worthy result. Take your time with the rising stages to get the softest texture.

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a bowl, combine warm milk with a spoonful of sugar and sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for about five to ten minutes until foamy. This ensures the yeast is active and ready to lift the dough.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, and melted butter. Mix until a soft dough forms, then knead by hand or with a stand mixer until smooth and elastic. This usually takes about eight to ten minutes.

Step 3: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size. This can take about one to one and a half hours depending on your kitchen temperature.

Step 4: Shape and Second Rise

Transfer the dough to a greased baking pan and gently press it out to fit. Use your fingertips to create dimples all over the surface. Cover and let it rise again until puffy, about thirty to forty five minutes.

Step 5: Add the Jam and Bake

Spoon small amounts of jam into the dimples, spreading it slightly but not completely covering the surface. Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until golden brown and cooked through, about twenty five to thirty minutes.

Step 6: Finish with Butter and Sugar

While still warm, brush the top with melted butter and generously sprinkle with granulated sugar. Let it cool slightly before slicing.

How to Serve and Store Jam Donut Focaccia

Jam Donut Focaccia serves about 8 to 10 people depending on slice size. It is best enjoyed slightly warm on the day it is baked, when the sugar topping still has a delicate crunch and the jam is soft and fragrant. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. You can gently warm slices in the microwave for a few seconds to refresh the texture.

What to Serve With Jam Donut Focaccia?

Fresh Fruit Salad

A bowl of fresh berries or mixed fruit balances the sweetness and adds a refreshing contrast.

Hot Coffee or Latte

The soft sweet bread pairs beautifully with a strong cup of coffee or a creamy latte.

Vanilla Greek Yogurt

A spoonful of yogurt on the side adds tang and makes it feel like a complete brunch plate.

Scrambled Eggs

For a brunch spread, serve it alongside fluffy scrambled eggs to balance sweet and savory.

Whipped Cream and Extra Jam

For a more dessert style presentation, add a dollop of whipped cream and an extra drizzle of jam.

Want More Sweet Bread Ideas?

If you enjoy baking sweet treats like this Jam Donut Focaccia, you might also love trying a slice of Butter Pecan Pound Cake for a rich buttery dessert. For cookie lovers, these Chocolate Chip Cookies are always a classic choice. If you prefer something creamy and indulgent, take a look at Tiramisu Cupcakes. And for another cozy bakery style option, the Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies never disappoint.