Description
This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia bread recipe offers a perfect balance of a soft, airy interior and a golden, crispy crust topped with fragrant minced garlic and rich parmesan cheese. Rooted in Italian tradition, this versatile bread is simple to prepare using basic pantry ingredients and ideal for serving as a side or a flavorful snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ¼ cups warm water
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- ¼ cup olive oil + extra for topping
Toppings
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp Italian herbs (optional)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water and active dry yeast. Allow it to sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is active and ready to use.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Pour in the activated yeast mixture and stir until a sticky dough forms, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
- 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 it has doubled in size. This fermentation process develops the bread’s texture and flavor.
- Shape the Dough: Grease a baking pan with olive oil and transfer the risen dough into it. Using your fingers, gently press to create dimples evenly across the whole surface of the dough to hold toppings and create the traditional focaccia texture.
- Add Toppings: Drizzle additional olive oil evenly over the dough surface. Sprinkle the minced garlic, grated parmesan cheese, and optional Italian herbs evenly across the top to infuse flavor as it bakes.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Place the baking pan with dough into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the focaccia turns golden brown and the crust is crisp.
- Cool & Serve: Remove the baked focaccia from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm to enjoy the full flavors and texture.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor and texture, try cold fermenting the dough overnight in the refrigerator before shaping and baking.
- Customize your focaccia by adding rosemary, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives along with or instead of the garlic and parmesan.
- Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Focaccia, Italian bread, homemade focaccia, easy focaccia recipe, garlic bread, parmesan bread, savory bread, side dish, baking bread
