Name: Herb and Garlic Focaccia Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast; 1 1/2 tsp salt; 1 1/4 cups warm water; 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for topping; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped; Flaky salt, for topping

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If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into a soft, fluffy Italian bread bursting with fresh flavors, then this Herb and Garlic Focaccia Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This classic focaccia is infused with fragrant garlic, luscious olive oil, and vibrant fresh herbs, creating a perfect balance of taste and texture that makes it irresistible. Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty meal or using it to craft a gourmet sandwich, this recipe will fill your home with the warm, inviting aroma of Italy and delight everyone lucky enough to try it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white fluted bowl filled with a mound of fine white flour in the center, placed on a white marbled surface. To the top left of the bowl, there is a small white bowl of golden yellow oil, and next to it on the right, a smaller white bowl containing fine white salt. To the bottom left near the bowl of flour, a few sprigs of fresh green rosemary add contrast. On the right side, there is a clear glass measuring cup filled with water. Above the measuring cup, a small black measuring spoon holds more salt. The colors are soft and natural, with the white flour and bowls sharply contrasting the subtle hues of the rosemary and oil. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Herb and Garlic Focaccia Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor while keeping the dough light and airy, giving you that signature focaccia texture.

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and chew that make focaccia so satisfying.
2 1/4 tsp instant yeast: Ensures a perfect rise for that fluffy texture.
1 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness of the dough.
1 1/4 cups warm water: Activates the yeast and hydrates the flour for a tender crumb.
1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for topping: Adds richness, moisture, and that classic Mediterranean taste.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the bread with aromatic depth and a gentle bite.
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped: Brings piney, earthy notes that pair beautifully with the garlic.
1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped: Adds a light, floral touch perfect for layering flavors.
Flaky salt, for topping: Gives a satisfying crunch and a burst of seasoning in every bite.

How to Make Herb and Garlic Focaccia Recipe

Step 1: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

Begin by combining the flour, instant yeast, and salt in a large bowl. This dry mix forms the foundation of your focaccia dough, setting the stage for a perfect rise and delicate flavor balance.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients and Form Dough

Next, add warm water and olive oil to the dry mixture. Stir just until the dough starts to come together into a sticky mass. The warmth of the water wakes up the yeast, while the olive oil ensures tender softness.

Step 3: Knead Until Smooth

Give the dough a gentle knead or mix it with a stand mixer until it’s silky and smooth. This step is key to developing gluten that gives focaccia its characteristic chew without making it tough.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Cover the dough and let it rest in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. This rising period breathes life into the loaf, making it airy and light.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Then, press the risen dough into a well-oiled baking pan, shaping it gently to fill the space. Finally, dimple the surface with your fingers—these little pockets will trap olive oil and toppings beautifully.

Step 6: Add Toppings and Bake

Drizzle the dough generously with olive oil, then sprinkle on the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, and a pinch of flaky salt. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the focaccia turns a gorgeous golden color and fills your kitchen with irresistible aroma.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Once baked, allow the focaccia to cool slightly so it holds together when sliced. Then, cut into generous squares or strips and get ready to enjoy.

How to Serve Herb and Garlic Focaccia Recipe

Herb and Garlic Focaccia Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Enhance your Herb and Garlic Focaccia Recipe by adding a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs just before serving. A dusting of grated Parmesan cheese also adds a delightful savory touch that melts into the warm bread.

Side Dishes

This focaccia makes a perfect companion to almost any meal. It’s incredible alongside a fresh green salad, a hearty bowl of soup, or as a base for a flavorful sandwich packed with roasted vegetables or cured meats.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your focaccia with a trio of dips—think roasted red pepper hummus, creamy pesto, and herbed olive oil with balsamic vinegar. Or slice it horizontally and use it as sandwich bread layered with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a deluxe Caprese twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover focaccia stays delicious for up to two days when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Keeping it sealed prevents it from drying out, maintaining that signature moist crumb.

Freezing

This Herb and Garlic Focaccia Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap cooled slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or pop directly into the oven for a fresh-from-the-oven feel.

Reheating

For the best experience, reheat focaccia in a 350°F oven for about 8 to 10 minutes, uncovered. This warms the bread through while crisping the edges and reviving the aromatic herbs and garlic.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! Dried herbs can be substituted, but use about one-third of the amount fresh herbs call for, as dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor. Add them either during the dough preparation or sprinkled on top before baking.

What if I don’t have instant yeast? Can I use active dry yeast?

Yes, active dry yeast works fine. Just dissolve it in the warm water first and let it activate for about 5 to 10 minutes until foamy before mixing it with the other ingredients.

How do I make the focaccia more flavorful?

For deeper flavor, try letting the dough rise overnight in the refrigerator. The slow fermentation enhances the bread’s complexity, giving it a deliciously rich taste and chewier texture.

Is this Herb and Garlic Focaccia Recipe vegan?

Yes, it’s completely vegan! This focaccia recipe uses no animal products and relies on simple, plant-based ingredients to achieve fantastic flavor and texture.

Can I add other toppings besides herbs and garlic?

Certainly! You can top your focaccia with olives, caramelized onions, sun-dried tomatoes, or even thinly sliced potatoes for creative variations. Just remember to keep the dough well-oiled to maintain its softness.

Final Thoughts

Making this Herb and Garlic Focaccia Recipe is like inviting a little piece of Italy into your kitchen. Its simplicity, combined with fresh, vibrant flavors, creates a bread that’s perfectly rustic yet elegant. Once you taste the crispy edges and soft interior dotted with fragrant herbs and garlic, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again. So go ahead, grab your olive oil and herbs, and make some memories baking this irresistible focaccia!