Summer Cherry, Balsamic & Rosemary Focaccia

This recipe brings together the golden crust of a classic Italian focaccia with a delicious summer twist. Fresh cherries are macerated in balsamic vinegar and sugar, olive-oil-soaked dough alongside aromatic fresh rosemary. Perfect for any summer gathering. 

https://youtube.com/shorts/Ux90wdHCheU?si=JfIYqvwAWD4Da745

Ingredients 

For the Dough

1 2/3 cups warm water

2 tsp instant yeast

1 Tbsp honey

3 Tbsp sourdough starter (optional)

4 cups flour

1 tsp salt

4 Tbsp olive oil (divided)

For the Cherry & Rosemary Topping 

2 1/2 cups cherries 

1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar

1/4 cup sugar (divided) (I used Maple Sugar)

2 Tbsp  fresh rosemary-chopped

Directions

1. Mix water, yeast in a mixing bowl, add honey, salt and starter (if using). 
2. Add flour and 2 Tbsp of olive oil and mix to combing the dough. 
3. Kneed the dough, stretching and folding it over.
4. Place back in the bowl and cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap. 
5. Please in the fridge overnight
6. The next day, remove the stones form the cherries, add balsamic vinegar and 2 Tbsp of sugar. Let sit for at least 30 minutes.
7. Grease a 9x11 
8. Preheat your oven to 425 F
9. Press the dough into the pan, stretching it to fit. 
10. Drain the liquid from the cherries and spread the cherries over the dough. 
11. Sprinkle the rosemary and 2 Tbsp over the dough.
12. Bake for 30 minutes until golden brown.
13. Drizzle the remaining 2 Tbsp of olive oil over the focaccia.