Bake the Best Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe
Introduction
Garlic Parmesan Focaccia is a flavorful, soft bread perfect for any meal or snack. This easy recipe combines fragrant garlic, savory parmesan, and a crispy golden crust that will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ¼ cups warm water
- ¼ cup olive oil + extra for topping
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp Italian herbs (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy to activate the yeast.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir until a sticky dough forms.
- Step 3: Cover the bowl with a towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Step 4: Grease a baking pan with olive oil and place the dough inside. Use your fingers to create dimples evenly across the dough surface.
- Step 5: Drizzle olive oil over the dough, then sprinkle the minced garlic, grated parmesan, and Italian herbs evenly on top.
- Step 6: Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Bake the focaccia for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Step 7: Let the bread cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- For a softer focaccia, brush the top with additional olive oil right after baking.
- Add fresh rosemary or thyme for a different herb flavor.
- Use bread flour instead of all-purpose for a chewier texture.
- If you prefer less garlic, reduce the amount or roast it beforehand for sweetness.
Storage
Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep it fresher longer, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat slices in a warm oven or toaster oven to restore crispness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast. Mix it directly with dry ingredients and reduce the rise time slightly, as instant yeast acts faster.
How do I keep my focaccia from drying out?
Brush the focaccia with olive oil after baking and store it in an airtight container. Reheating in a warm oven also helps restore moisture and crispness.
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Bake the Best Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes (including rising time)
- Yield: 1 large focaccia bread, serves 6-8 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread recipe yields a warm, golden, and crispy loaf infused with fragrant garlic and topped with savory Parmesan cheese and herbs. Perfect as a side or appetizer, this homemade focaccia combines a soft, airy interior with a flavorful, crispy crust.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ¼ cups warm water
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for the pan and topping)
Toppings
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp Italian herbs (optional)
- Extra olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, salt, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir together until a sticky dough forms.
- First Rise: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough: Generously grease a baking pan with olive oil and transfer the risen dough into it. Using your fingers, gently create dimples across the surface of the dough to give it the classic focaccia texture.
- Add Toppings: Drizzle additional olive oil evenly over the surface of the dough. Then sprinkle the minced garlic, grated parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs (if using) evenly on top.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Bake the focaccia bread in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the crust turns golden brown and crispy.
- Cool & Serve: Remove the focaccia from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Make sure the water is warm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
- To keep the focaccia moist, do not overbake; check for golden brown crust as an indicator.
- Feel free to customize toppings by adding olives, rosemary, or sun-dried tomatoes for variations.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor; garlic powder can be used as a substitute but may alter the taste.
- This bread is best served the same day but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Focaccia, focaccia bread recipe, Italian bread, homemade focaccia, easy focaccia, garlic bread, Parmesan bread
