Description
This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread recipe is a delightful Italian classic featuring a soft, fluffy dough infused with garlic and topped generously with Parmesan cheese and fresh rosemary. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, this bread boasts a crispy golden crust with aromatic garlic and herb flavors, making it irresistible and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon salt
- ¼ cup olive oil
Topping Ingredients
- Additional olive oil for drizzling
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is activated.
- Make Dough: Add the flour, salt, and ¼ cup olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead Dough: On a floured surface, knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for about 5 minutes to achieve the same texture.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 13×18-inch baking sheet with olive oil. Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to the prepared pan. Stretch and press the dough out evenly to fit the pan.
- Create Dimples and Add Toppings: Use your fingers to create dimples all over the dough’s surface. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle the minced garlic, grated Parmesan, chopped rosemary, and coarse sea salt evenly over the top.
- Second Rise: Let the dough rest for an additional 20-30 minutes while the oven preheats, allowing it to puff slightly.
- Bake: Bake the focaccia in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the bread is golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a spicier variation, add red pepper flakes to the garlic and olive oil mixture before drizzling over the dough.
- Feel free to experiment with toppings such as sliced olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh herbs to customize your focaccia.
- This bread pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or as a base for sandwiches.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Focaccia, Italian Bread, Homemade Focaccia, Parmesan Bread, Garlic Bread, Rosemary Focaccia, Easy Bread Recipe
