Easy Slow Cooker Focaccia Bread – No Kneading Required!

There’s nothing like homemade bread, and this Slow Cooker Focaccia Bread makes it so easy! No need to knead for hours or babysit the oven—just mix, let it rise, and let your slow cooker do the work. It comes out soft, fluffy, and full of flavor with that golden, slightly crisp crust. Perfect for dipping in soup, making sandwiches, or just snacking straight from the pan (no judgment here!).

Let’s get baking!

What You’ll Need

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F)
1 tsp salt
2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
1 tsp honey
1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
1 tsp dried rosemary (or fresh, chopped)
Flaky sea salt (for topping)

a glass bowl of all-purpose flour, a small dish of instant yeast, a measuring cup of warm water, a small bowl of salt

Pro Tips

Use parchment paper – It prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Dimples matter! – Pressing your fingers into the dough creates little pockets that hold olive oil and flavor.
Let it rest – Giving the dough time to rise ensures a light, fluffy texture.
Crisp it up – If you like a crunchier crust, pop it under the broiler for a couple of minutes at the end.
Customize it! – Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or shredded cheese for extra flavor.

Tools You’ll Need

Large mixing bowl
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups & spoons
Parchment paper
Slow cooker
Kitchen towel (for covering the dough)

Substitutions & Variations

Flour: Swap all-purpose for bread flour for a chewier texture.
Yeast: Active dry yeast works too, just proof it in warm water with honey first.
Herbs & Toppings: Try thyme, oregano, or even everything bagel seasoning.
Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle parmesan or mozzarella on top before cooking.

Make-Ahead Tips

Mix and let the dough rise overnight in the fridge for an easy morning bake.
Store leftover dough (before cooking) in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

How to Make Slow Cooker Focaccia Bread

1. Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, salt, garlic powder, and rosemary. Stir in warm water, olive oil, and honey until a sticky dough forms.

a glass mixing bowl with sticky focaccia dough, which is a soft, slightly yellowish off-white color

2. Let the Dough Rise

Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, until doubled in size.

a large glass bowl covered with a slightly damp kitchen towel, sitting on the counter

3. Shape & Dimple the Dough

Line your slow cooker with parchment paper. Transfer the dough in and gently stretch it to fit. Press your fingers into the dough to make dimples. Drizzle with olive oil and a sprinkle of flaky salt.

hands pressing deep dimples into focaccia dough speckled with fresh rosemary inside a parchment-lined slow cooker

4. Cook in the Slow Cooker

Set the slow cooker to HIGH and cook for 2 to 2.5 hours, until the bread is golden and firm.

5. (Optional) Crisp Under the Broiler

For a crispier top, carefully transfer the bread to a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

a round focaccia bread on a baking sheet inside a modern stainless steel double oven

6. Let the Bread Cool & Serve

Once cooked, carefully lift the focaccia out of the slow cooker using the parchment paper. Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the texture set and makes it easier to cut.

freshly baked focaccia bread resting on a wooden cutting board

Leftovers & Storage

Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 2 days.
Freeze for up to 3 months – just slice and wrap tightly.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to bring back that fresh-baked feel.

Time to Enjoy!

This easy slow cooker focaccia bread is so simple, but it tastes like something from a fancy bakery. Soft, chewy, and packed with flavor, it’s perfect for family meals or just snacking anytime. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out in the comments—I’d love to hear how you topped yours! 😊 🍞