Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe
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.
- 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
Scale
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
