Name: Garlic Herb Focaccia Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3½ cups all-purpose flour; 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet); 1¼ cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C); ¼ cup olive oil, plus more for the pan and topping; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon sugar; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried); 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried); Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling

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If you’ve ever wished you could capture the warm, inviting aroma of fresh-baked Italian bread at home, then this Garlic Herb Focaccia Recipe is exactly what you need. Soft and airy on the inside with a golden, olive oil-kissed crust, every bite bursts with the vibrant flavors of garlic and fragrant herbs. Whether you’re pairing it with a hearty soup, building a sandwich, or simply dipping it in extra virgin olive oil, this focaccia will quickly become your go-to comfort bread that feels both homemade and truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up of a dough layer covered with a golden-yellow olive oil and herb mixture. The dough is pale with small holes and dimples all over, holding pools of the shiny olive oil. Small greenish dried herbs are scattered on top of the dough, giving it texture and color contrast. A white silicone brush is seen gently spreading the herb oil on the dough surface. The background and surface where the dough is placed have a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These simple, classic ingredients come together to create a focaccia that’s full of character—each one playing a vital role in the texture, flavor, or appearance of the final bread, making the whole process straightforward and rewarding.

3½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender, airy focaccia crumb.
2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet): Essential for that beautiful rise and lightness.
1¼ cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C): Activates the yeast and hydrates the flour for perfect dough consistency.
¼ cup olive oil, plus more for the pan and topping: Adds moisture and that signature rich, golden crust.
2 teaspoons salt: Balances flavors and enhances the overall bread taste.
1 teaspoon sugar: Feeds the yeast for a lively rise.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a punch of savory warmth to the topping.
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried): Adds an aromatic, woodsy note that pairs beautifully with garlic.
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried): Offers a subtle herbal complexity that brightens every bite.
Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling: Gives a delightful crunch and bursts of seasoning on top.

How to Make Garlic Herb Focaccia Recipe

Step 1: Activate Your Yeast

Start by mixing the warm water with the sugar and yeast in a large bowl. Let this sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly—that’s your sign that the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic, giving your focaccia that perfect airy texture.

Step 2: Mix and Form the Dough

Next, stir in the olive oil and salt, then gradually add the flour. You want the dough to come together into a soft ball that’s a bit sticky but manageable. This is the base for your focaccia’s tender crumb.

Step 3: Knead to Perfection

Knead the dough either in the bowl or on a lightly floured surface for about 5 to 6 minutes. This step develops the gluten, which gives your bread structure but keeps it light and chewy in just the right way.

Step 4: Let It Rise

Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it up, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour. It should roughly double in size—this is where the yeast creates countless bubbles that will make your focaccia soft and fluffy.

Step 5: Shape and Second Rise

Generously oil a 9×13-inch baking pan to keep the focaccia moist and prevent sticking. Press your dough evenly into the pan using your hands—don’t be shy, those dimples will help trap olive oil later! Cover it again and let it rise for another 20 to 30 minutes to puff up just before baking.

Step 6: Prep and Bake

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Using your fingertips, press light dimples all over the dough’s surface. Drizzle with more olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with the minced garlic, herbs, and coarse sea salt. The final burst of flavor comes from this topping that infuses every bite. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the crust is beautifully golden brown.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Once out of the oven, give your focaccia a few minutes to cool slightly—this little wait lets the bread finish setting up so it slices cleanly and retains its soft texture.

How to Serve Garlic Herb Focaccia Recipe

The image shows a close-up of bread with a thick, golden-brown crust topped with melted cheese, chopped green herbs, and finely grated white cheese scattered across the surface. The bread is cut into long rectangular slices, with some pieces slightly lifted to show the soft, airy interior that is pale cream in color. The bread rests on a crinkled white parchment paper placed on a white marbled surface, with a small white bowl of green herbs and a silver spoon nearby. The texture of the bread is slightly rough on top due to the melted cheese and herbs, contrasting with the soft inside. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an irresistible finish, brush your focaccia with an extra drizzle of olive oil right after baking. You can also scatter fresh herb leaves, a light sprinkle of grated Parmesan, or even a few thinly sliced olives to add bursts of flavor and texture that make the bread feel even more special.

Side Dishes

This Garlic Herb Focaccia Recipe is a dream companion to so many meals—dip it into a fresh tomato soup, pair it with a vibrant pasta sauce, or serve alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp salad. It also holds up wonderfully as a base for bruschetta or sandwiches when warmed.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice your focaccia into charming little squares for a party platter or tear it into rustic chunks served warm in a basket for casual gatherings. Try layering it with sliced fresh mozzarella and tomato for an easy twist, or use it as a bread base for a Mediterranean appetizer spread that’s sure to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep any leftover focaccia fresh at room temperature, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container, for up to two days without losing its wonderful texture and moisture.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this Garlic Herb Focaccia Recipe later, freezing works beautifully. Wrap slices well in plastic or foil and place in a freezer bag. When you’re ready, thaw at room temperature for a few hours, ready to be reheated and enjoyed.

Reheating

To revive the focaccia’s fresh-baked qualities, warm it lightly in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through. This helps restore crispness to the crust and brings back that comforting aroma we all love.

FAQs

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh in the Garlic Herb Focaccia Recipe?

Absolutely! While fresh herbs offer the brightest flavor, dried rosemary and thyme can be used in equal amounts, providing a fragrant and tasty alternative without needing fresh ingredients on hand.

What can I add to the focaccia for extra flavor?

Feel free to mix in ingredients like sliced olives, cherry tomatoes, caramelized onions, or even sun-dried tomatoes before baking to make the focaccia your own unique creation.

Why is my focaccia dense instead of airy?

If your focaccia turns out dense, it might be due to inactive yeast, not enough rising time, or kneading too little or too much. Make sure your yeast is fresh, let your dough rise fully in a warm spot, and knead just enough to develop gluten but keep the dough soft.

Can I make this focaccia without olive oil?

Olive oil is key for the authentic flavor and texture in focaccia, so it’s best not to skip it. However, if necessary, you can substitute with a mild vegetable oil, but the flavor profile will be less rich.

How long does this Garlic Herb Focaccia Recipe take from start to finish?

From mixing to baking, the entire process takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Much of that time is resting for the dough to rise, which is critical for a soft, fluffy focaccia.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about making bread from scratch, and this Garlic Herb Focaccia Recipe brings the warmth and aroma of an Italian bakery right into your kitchen. It’s a simple, satisfying project that rewards you with a deliciously soft, flavorful loaf perfect for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it and share it with the people you love!