Name: Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-487093H57M1S
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons sugar; 2 teaspoons active dry yeast; 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F/43°C); 1/4 cup olive oil (plus extra for drizzling); 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional); Salt, to taste; Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; Extra grated Parmesan for garnish

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Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is a savory, aromatic Italian bread that’s perfectly crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside. Infused with the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan, this focaccia is irresistible and makes a wonderful side dish for pasta, soups, or salads. The dough is easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, making it a perfect addition to any meal or even enjoyed on its own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is everything you want in a homemade bread: fluffy, golden, and full of flavor. The combination of fresh garlic, nutty Parmesan, and olive oil gives it a mouthwatering aroma and taste. The bread is incredibly easy to make, and once you try it, you’ll never want to buy store-bought focaccia again. With its crisp crust and tender interior, it’s the perfect complement to a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party, for a casual meal, or as a snack, this focaccia will quickly become a favorite!

Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the dough:

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons sugar
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
1/4 cup olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)

For the garlic Parmesan topping:

3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
Salt, to taste
Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Extra grated Parmesan for garnish

Directions

Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Stir the ingredients together. Gradually add the warm water and 1/4 cup of olive oil to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough begins to form. Once the dough starts coming together, knead it on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a sheet pan with olive oil.
Shape the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer the dough to the prepared baking dish or sheet pan. Using your fingers, gently press and stretch the dough to fit the shape of the pan. If the dough resists stretching, let it rest for 5 minutes and try again.
Add the toppings: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated Parmesan, olive oil, oregano (if using), salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Mix well. Drizzle this garlic-Parmesan mixture evenly over the dough. Use your fingers to gently press into the dough, creating little dimples across the surface. This gives the focaccia its signature texture and allows the oil to soak in.
Second rise: Cover the dough again with a towel and let it rise for another 15-20 minutes. It will puff up slightly.
Bake the focaccia: Once the dough has risen, place it in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Garnish and serve: Remove the focaccia from the oven and drizzle with a little more olive oil. Sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish. Let it cool slightly before slicing.
Enjoy: Serve your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia warm. It’s perfect with pasta, soups, salads, or just on its own with a drizzle of olive oil for dipping.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes about 8 slices.
Prep time: 15 minutes (not including rising time)
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 2 hours (including rising time)

Variations

Herbed Focaccia: Add more fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil to the dough for extra flavor.
Olives and Onions: Add sliced olives or caramelized onions to the dough before baking for an added Mediterranean twist.
Cheesy Focaccia: For a cheesy version, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top before baking.
Spicy Focaccia: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic-Parmesan topping for a bit of heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To maintain freshness, it’s best served the same day it’s made.
Freezing: You can freeze focaccia for up to 2 months. Once it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Reheating: To reheat, place slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed and crispy. You can also microwave individual slices for 20-30 seconds, but they won’t be as crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for part or all of the all-purpose flour, but note that the texture of the focaccia will be denser and slightly heavier. You may need to add a little more water.

2. Can I make this focaccia gluten-free?

To make this focaccia gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum or another binding agent. The texture may differ slightly, but it will still be delicious!

3. Can I use a stand mixer to make the dough?

Yes, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook to knead the dough. Mix the ingredients until combined and then knead the dough on medium speed for 5-7 minutes until smooth.

4. Can I add other toppings?

Absolutely! You can add caramelized onions, roasted garlic, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes. Just be sure to spread them evenly across the dough before the second rise.

5. How do I know when the focaccia is done baking?

The focaccia is done when the top is golden brown, and the edges are crispy. You can also tap the bottom of the focaccia; if it sounds hollow, it’s ready.

6. Can I make focaccia in a different shape?

Yes, you can make focaccia in different shapes. You can shape it into rounds, squares, or even long baguette-style loaves. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if you change the shape.

7. Can I freeze focaccia dough before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the dough after the first rise. Shape it into your desired form, wrap it tightly in plastic, and freeze it for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and proceed with the second rise and baking.

8. Can I make this focaccia without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can make this focaccia by hand. Simply mix the ingredients together in a bowl and knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

9. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, you can use garlic powder in place of fresh garlic, but the flavor won’t be as robust. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for every garlic clove.

10. How do I get the focaccia extra crispy?

To get an extra crispy focaccia, use a bit more olive oil on the dough before baking and ensure the oven is preheated to the right temperature. A hotter oven helps create a crispier crust.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Focaccia is a delicious, easy-to-make bread that’s bursting with flavor. The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil creates a savory, aromatic bread that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it alongside dinner, using it for sandwiches, or enjoying it as a snack, this focaccia is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the crispy edges and soft interior with every bite!