Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe

Introduction

Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is a fragrant, crispy, and flavorful Italian classic that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Perfect as a snack, side, or appetizer, this bread combines aromatic garlic, savory Parmesan, and fresh herbs for a delicious treat.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 ¾ cups warm water (about 110°F)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (for garlic topping)
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• ½ teaspoon salt (for garlic oil)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
• Additional olive oil for greasing
• Flaky sea salt for sprinkling
• Fresh parsley or herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and instant yeast. Stir in the olive oil and warm water until a sticky dough forms. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours, until doubled in size.
2. Step 2: Generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or sheet pan with olive oil. Transfer the dough to the pan and gently stretch it to the edges. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. Step 3: Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic and ½ teaspoon salt. Cook until fragrant but not browned, then remove from heat.
4. Step 4: Use your fingers to press deep dimples all over the dough. Drizzle the garlic oil evenly on top, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs if using, and a pinch of flaky sea salt.
5. Step 5: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until golden and crispy. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
6. Step 6: Cut into squares or strips and serve warm. Enjoy the irresistible flavors!

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes to the dough before the first rise.
• Use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to enhance the aromatic profile.
• If you don’t have instant yeast, you can use active dry yeast but allow extra time for rising.
• Try a sprinkle of chili flakes on top for a spicy kick.
• Brush with more olive oil right after baking to keep the crust moist and flavorful.

Storage

Store cooled focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in a warm oven or toaster oven to restore crispness before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this focaccia dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be made the day before and refrigerated overnight. Just bring it to room temperature and let it rise before proceeding with the recipe.

What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?

You can substitute with Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even a sharp cheddar for a different but tasty twist.

Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 148 reviews

This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is a fragrant, golden, and crispy Italian-style flatbread topped with garlic-infused olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, this recipe features a simple no-knead dough that rises for a light, airy texture and a beautifully dimpled surface that soaks up the flavorful toppings.

• Author: Bella
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

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For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 ¾ cups warm water (about 110°F)

For the Garlic Parmesan Topping:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)

To Finish:

• Additional olive oil for greasing
• Flaky sea salt for sprinkling
• Fresh parsley or herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and instant yeast. Stir in the olive oil and warm water until a sticky dough forms. There is no need to knead; instead, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Pan: Generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or sheet pan with olive oil. Transfer the risen dough into the pan and gently stretch it out to cover the edges. Allow it to rest for an additional 30 minutes to relax and rise slightly while you prepare the topping.
3. Make the Garlic Oil: In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the olive oil. Add the finely minced garlic and a pinch of salt. Cook gently just until the garlic becomes fragrant, avoiding any browning. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Dimple the Dough: Using your fingers, press deep dimples evenly all over the surface of the dough. Drizzle the prepared garlic oil over the dough. Then sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs if using, and a pinch of flaky sea salt on top to enhance flavor and texture.
5. Bake the Focaccia: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake the focaccia for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp. Once baked, remove the focaccia and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Cut the focaccia into squares or strips. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or herbs if desired. This flavorful bread is perfect for sharing and tends to disappear quickly!

Notes

• No kneading is necessary; the dough will develop gluten through resting and rising.
• Ensure the garlic is cooked gently to release aroma without burning, which can cause bitterness.
• Use warm water around 110°F to activate the yeast effectively without killing it.
• Feel free to vary the fresh herbs to suit your taste preferences, such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
• Store leftovers wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate and reheat before serving.

Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Focaccia, Italian bread, garlic bread, focaccia recipe, homemade bread, Parmesan bread