Slow Cooker Herbed Focaccia Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is ideal for anyone craving homemade bread without the hassle of kneading or heating up the kitchen. Using frozen dinner rolls cuts down on prep time, while slow cooking creates a pillowy, soft interior and crispy golden edges. The simple blend of dried herbs and olive oil gives it that classic focaccia flavor, and you can customize it with your favorite toppings. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this recipe is practically foolproof—and perfect as a side, appetizer, or snack.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• frozen Rhodes Dinner Rolls (10 rolls for 5-quart slow cooker, 13 rolls for 6-quart)

• olive oil

• dried rosemary

• dried thyme

• garlic powder

• sea salt

directions

Line the Slow Cooker:
Place parchment paper in the bottom of a 5- or 6-quart slow cooker.

Arrange the Dough:
Add frozen dinner rolls so they are close but not touching—10 rolls in a 5-quart, or 13 rolls in a 6-quart.

Let the Dough Rise:
Turn the slow cooker to the “warm” setting and cover with the lid. Let the rolls rise until doubled in size, about 1 ½ to 1 ¾ hours depending on your slow cooker.

Add Oil and Dimple the Dough:
Once risen, pour the olive oil evenly over the dough, making sure the tops and sides are coated. Use clean fingers to press dimples into the dough—this gives focaccia its signature texture.

Season the Dough:
Sprinkle the rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, and sea salt evenly over the top.

Cook the Focaccia:
Switch the slow cooker to “high” and cook for about 1 ½ hours, or until the bread is fully cooked on top with no raw spots and golden around the edges.

Serve:
Lift the focaccia out using the parchment paper, slice, and serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings:

• 5-quart slow cooker (10 rolls): serves 6–8

• 6-quart slow cooker (13 rolls): serves 8–10

Prep time: 5 minutes
Rise time: 1 hour 30–45 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total time: About 3 hours 5 minutes

Variations

• Use fresh herbs: Replace dried herbs with fresh ones at a 3:1 ratio.

• Add toppings: Customize with sun-dried tomatoes, olives, caramelized onions, or crushed red pepper.

• Cheesy focaccia: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or parmesan before cooking for a cheesy crust.

• Garlic butter finish: Brush with melted garlic butter after cooking for extra richness.

• Savory-sweet twist: Add halved grapes or figs with rosemary for a sweet-savory combo.

• Whole wheat version: Use whole wheat dinner rolls for a heartier option.

• Vegan topping: Try a tahini drizzle or dairy-free cheese to keep it plant-based.

• Spice it up: Add za’atar, everything bagel seasoning, or Italian seasoning.

• Stuffed version: Press olives or cubed cheese into the dough before cooking.

• Mini versions: Shape smaller portions into individual focaccias for serving at parties.

storage/reheating

Storage:
Keep leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Freezing:
Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or beeswax wraps, then place in freezer-safe bags. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes until heated through and edges are crisp again.

FAQs

Can I use a different brand of frozen rolls?

This recipe has only been tested with Rhodes Dinner Rolls. Results may vary with other brands.

Can I bake this focaccia in the oven instead of the slow cooker?

Yes, though this recipe is designed for a slow cooker. Oven instructions would require a different method and temperature.

Do I need to thaw the rolls before using?

No, the rolls go into the slow cooker frozen and rise directly in the pot.

What can I use instead of parchment paper?

Parchment paper is a must. Without it, the bread will likely stick to the slow cooker.

Can I add cheese to the dough?

Yes, cheese like parmesan or mozzarella can be added before cooking for extra flavor.

How do I know when the focaccia is done?

The top should be fully cooked without any raw dough spots, and the edges should be golden brown.

Can I let the dough rise overnight?

No, rising in the slow cooker takes only about 1.5 hours. Overnight rising may over-proof the dough.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, if you skip cheese toppings or use a vegan alternative, it is naturally vegan.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, substitute 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs for every 1 teaspoon of dried herbs.

What size slow cooker should I use?

A 5-quart slow cooker fits 10 rolls (serves 6–8), and a 6-quart fits 13 rolls (serves 8–10).

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Herbed Focaccia Bread is an effortless and flavorful way to enjoy homemade bread without turning on the oven. With minimal prep and no kneading required, this soft, herby focaccia is perfect for busy days, casual dinners, or whenever you’re craving freshly baked bread. Easy to customize and ideal for sharing, this recipe proves that great bread can come from your countertop—not just your oven.