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
Scale
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
