Description
This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread recipe yields a soft, fluffy, and flavorful Italian bread infused with garlic and topped with Parmesan cheese and herbs. Perfectly golden and crispy on the outside, this easy-to-make focaccia is ideal as a side for any meal or as a base for sandwiches.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp Italian herbs (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups warm water
- ¼ cup olive oil + extra for topping and greasing
Toppings
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active and ready to use.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir with a spoon until you form a sticky dough.
- First Rise: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and place it in a warm spot. Let the dough rise for 1 to 2 hours or until it has doubled in size, which helps develop the texture and flavor.
- Shape the Dough: Generously grease a baking pan with olive oil. Transfer the risen dough into the pan and use your fingers to dimple the surface evenly across the dough. This characteristic dimpling adds texture and helps hold the toppings.
- Add Toppings: Drizzle additional olive oil over the dough surface. Evenly sprinkle the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs (if using) to infuse the bread with rich flavor.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Bake the focaccia in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Cool & Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool slightly in the pan before slicing. Serve warm to enjoy the full aroma and taste of the fresh garlic and Parmesan.
Notes
- For an extra depth of flavor, cold ferment the dough overnight in the refrigerator before shaping and baking.
- Try adding toppings like rosemary, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives to diversify the flavor profile.
- Store any leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Focaccia, Italian bread, homemade focaccia, garlic bread, Parmesan cheese bread, easy focaccia recipe
