If you have been searching for a bread that beautifully balances savory garlic, nutty Parmesan, and an irresistibly soft texture, look no further. This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe is a true celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create a loaf that’s crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Every bite feels like a warm hug, and it’s the kind of bread you’ll want to make again and again to brighten any meal or snack time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe starts with a handful of essential ingredients that each play a vital role. These components work in harmony to give the focaccia its classic texture, rich flavor, and beautiful golden color.
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (480g): Provides the perfect structure and chewiness to the bread.
- 2 teaspoons salt: Enhances all the flavors and provides a subtle savory depth.
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast: Gives the focaccia its airy and light rise.
- 1â…” cups warm water (400ml): Activates the yeast and hydrates the dough for softness.
- ¼ cup olive oil (60ml): Adds richness and helps achieve that crisp yet tender crust.
- 4–5 garlic cloves, minced: Imparts that signature punch of aromatic garlic.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50g): Brings a nutty, salty layer of flavor that melts beautifully during baking.
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or Italian herbs (optional): Provides fragrant herbal notes for an extra special touch.
- Flaky sea salt for sprinkling (optional): Adds bursts of saltiness and a lovely textural contrast on top.
- Extra olive oil, for drizzling: Used generously to keep the focaccia moist and add shine.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe
Step 1: Make the Dough
Start by mixing the all-purpose flour, salt, and instant yeast in a large bowl. Pour in the warm water and olive oil, stirring just until a shaggy dough begins to come together. Don’t fuss over kneading at this point; the dough should look rough and sticky. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours until it doubles in size. This resting is where the magic starts, allowing the yeast to create air bubbles that lend the focaccia its iconic fluffiness.
Step 2: Prepare Garlic Oil and Pan
While the dough is rising, gently combine the minced garlic with a bit of olive oil in a small bowl. This garlic oil will infuse the bread with intense flavor once drizzled on top. At the same time, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with olive oil. For easier cleanup and a bit of extra crispness on the bottom, you can also line the pan with parchment paper.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
Once your dough has doubled, transfer it into the prepared pan. Use your fingers to gently stretch and spread the dough until it fills the pan evenly. The dough will be soft and pliable—don’t worry if it springs back a bit. Cover the pan again and allow the dough to rise for 30 to 45 more minutes, giving it one last puff before baking.
Step 4: Add Toppings and Dimple
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Using your fingertips, press gently all over the surface of the dough to create characteristic dimples—this not only makes the bread look rustic but also helps trap the garlic oil and cheese. Drizzle the garlic oil evenly over the dough. Sprinkle generously with the grated Parmesan cheese, fresh rosemary or herbs if using, and a pinch of flaky sea salt for some delightful crunch and flavor bursts.
Step 5: Bake Your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe
Slide the pan into the hot oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You want to see a golden brown top with crisp edges and that unmistakable aroma wafting through your kitchen. After baking, let the focaccia cool just a little before slicing. This step lets the interior settle for perfect texture in every bite.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Simple is often best with focaccia, but a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or even a little extra Parmesan right before serving can elevate this garlic bread experience to something truly special. A light drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil will also add a glorious sheen and enhance flavor.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe pairs beautifully with almost any meal. Serve alongside a hearty bowl of tomato soup, a fresh garden salad, or use it to scoop up creamy dips like spinach artichoke or hummus. It also holds its own next to pasta dishes, roasted vegetables, or even as part of a charcuterie board.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform your focaccia into a centerpiece by cutting it into squares and arranging it on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of dips, olives, and cheeses. You can also slice it horizontally and layer it with roasted vegetables and meats for an impressive sandwich that’s far from ordinary. For casual gatherings, tearing pieces with your hands adds a lovely informal touch that invites sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Garlic Parmesan focaccia remains moist and tender when stored properly. Wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container, then refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, perfect for enjoying a quick snack or accompanying your meals.
Freezing
If you’d like to keep focaccia on hand for longer, freezing is a fantastic option. Wrap the focaccia tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It will keep well for up to 2 months without losing much of its flavor or texture.
Reheating
To revive the crispy crust and warm, fluffy interior, reheat your focaccia in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread rubbery. For a subtle boost of flavor, drizzle a bit of olive oil on top before warming.
FAQs
Can I use fresh yeast instead of instant yeast in this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute fresh yeast, but you’ll need to adjust the quantity—use about twice the amount of fresh yeast compared to instant yeast. Also, dissolve it in the warm water before mixing with the other ingredients for best results.
What if I don’t have fresh rosemary or Italian herbs?
No worries at all! The focaccia is delicious with just garlic and Parmesan. However, dried herbs like oregano or thyme can be sprinkled on top as alternatives, or you can leave them out entirely for a more straightforward flavor profile.
Is it possible to make this focaccia gluten-free?
Making focaccia gluten-free can be tricky because gluten provides structure and elasticity. However, using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend formulated for baking and adding a binding agent like xanthan gum can help you achieve a similar texture.
Can I prepare the dough the night before?
Absolutely. After mixing the dough, cover it tightly and refrigerate overnight. The dough will rise slowly, developing even more flavor, and you can take it out to shape and bake the next day, just allow extra time for it to come to room temperature before proceeding.
How can I make the focaccia more moist inside?
The key to moistness lies in the hydration level and the olive oil. Be sure to measure your ingredients precisely and don’t skimp on the olive oil used in the dough and drizzled on top. Also, avoid overbaking which can dry out the bread.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe is one of those treasured dishes that makes your kitchen smell incredible and brings joy with every bite. Whether you’re serving it as a cozy snack or alongside a meal to impress family and friends, it delivers comfort and flavor in a way few breads do. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite homemade bread!
