The scent of freshly baked Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread wafts through the kitchen, instantly transporting me to an Italian trattoria where bread is the centerpiece of every meal. With its fluffy, airy texture and a crust that’s golden and crispy, this easy bread recipe is perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to something special. Not only does it elevate any meal as a delightful side or a flavorful sandwich base, but it also brings the joy of homemade goodness right to your dining table. As you whip up this savory delight, feel free to explore variations with different cheeses or toppings, making each batch uniquely yours. Ready to take your taste buds on an Italian adventure?
Why is Focaccia Bread So Special?
Irresistible aroma: Freshly baked focaccia fills your home with a warm, inviting scent that adds a delightful ambiance to mealtime.
Simple to make: Even if you’re a novice in the kitchen, this easy bread recipe requires no fancy equipment—just mix, rise, and bake!
Ultimate versatility: Whether served warm as a side with soup or used as a base for sandwiches, it adapts to any occasion.
Flavor-packed: Infused with garlic and topped with Parmesan, each bite bursts with savory goodness, leaving your taste buds dancing.
Creative flexibility: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Consider incorporating olives or sun-dried tomatoes, or try a version with Rosemary Parmesan Snowflake Cookies for a sweet touch!
Embrace the joy of homemade bread and transform your meals with this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread that everyone will love!
Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Ingredients
Unlock the magic of homemade goodness with this easy bread recipe!
For the Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure and texture; this cannot be substituted easily.
- 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) instant yeast – Acts as a leavening agent for rise; if using active dry yeast, proof it first.
- 1½ teaspoons salt – Enhances flavor; sea salt works well as an alternative.
- 1½ cups warm water (about 110°F) – Activates yeast; ensure it’s the correct temperature for the best rise.
- 1 tablespoon sugar – Boosts yeast activity and adds a hint of sweetness.
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil – Adds moisture and flavor; additional is needed for greasing the pan.
For the Flavor
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses bold garlic flavor into the bread; can substitute with garlic powder if necessary.
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Adds delicious, savory richness; feel free to switch to Pecorino or Asiago for a different taste.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or chopped rosemary (optional) – Elevates the herb flavor; you can omit if you prefer a simpler taste.
- Flaky sea salt, for topping – Adds a delightful crunch and flavor contrast to every bite.
Create your own delightful version of Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread that binds every moment with the essence of Italian cuisine!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread
Step 1: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, combine 1½ cups of warm water (about 110°F), 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 2¼ teaspoons of instant yeast. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. Next, add 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1½ teaspoons of salt, mixing until a sticky dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5–6 minutes using a mixer or 8–10 minutes by hand until it’s smooth and elastic.
Step 2: First Rise
Once the dough is kneaded, coat it with ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil and place it in a large bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm area for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. You’ll know it’s ready when the dough is puffed up and springy to the touch.
Step 3: Prepare Garlic Oil
While the dough is rising, prepare the garlic oil. In a small skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat and add 3–4 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned, creating a delicious infusion to enhance your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread.
Step 4: Stretch and Second Rise
After the dough has risen, gently transfer it to a greased 9×13-inch pan, pressing it into the corners. If the dough resists, let it rest for 10 minutes before stretching it further. Once spread out, cover the pan again and allow the dough to rise for another 30–45 minutes until it visibly expands and bubbles form on the surface.
Step 5: Top and Bake
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Once the dough is ready, use your fingers to create dimples across the surface, then brush it with the garlic oil. Generously sprinkle ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs (if using), and finishing with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and crispy, filling your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma of Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread.
What to Serve with Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread?
The perfect pairing can elevate your homemade Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread from delightful to extraordinary, creating a memorable meal experience.
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Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens and vibrant vegetables provide a refreshing contrast, enhancing every savory bite of focaccia. The lightness of a salad balances the bread’s richness beautifully.
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Roasted Vegetable Medley: Mixed, caramelized veggies offer a hearty, flavorful complement. The sweetness of roasted vegetables pairs exquisitely with the savory notes of garlic and cheese.
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Creamy Tomato Soup: A classic combination, this warm soup brings comfort and nostalgia. Dip pieces of focaccia into the soup for a delightful, heartwarming experience.
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Garlic Herb Butter: Slathering the bread with this compound butter amplifies the existing garlic flavors and adds a creamy richness that makes every slice irresistible.
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Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce: For those craving a kick, this zesty sauce pairs wonderfully with focaccia, elevating its flavors and providing a delicious contrast.
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Antipasto Platter: Create a spread with cured meats, olives, and cheeses to serve alongside for a Mediterranean feast, perfect for sharing and exploring diverse flavors.
Each of these options not only highlights the deliciousness of your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread but also transforms your meal into an inviting culinary journey. Enjoy experimenting with these pairings!
Expert Tips for Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread
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Warm Water is Key: Ensure the water is warm (about 110°F) but not hot, as excessive heat can kill the yeast, resulting in flat bread.
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Don’t Rush the Rise: Allow the dough ample time to rise completely; this step guarantees a fluffy, airy texture in your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread.
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Sauté Garlic Carefully: Heating the garlic in olive oil releases its flavor beautifully; be cautious not to brown it, as this can lead to bitterness.
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Generous Oil Grease: Make sure to coat your pan well with olive oil for irresistibly crispy edges. This detail is often overlooked and essential for great results.
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Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to swap out the Parmesan with other cheeses like Pecorino or Asiago for different flavor profiles in your focaccia.
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Perfect Dimples: When dimpling the dough, use your fingers to create deep indents that hold the oil and toppings – this enhances flavor and texture.
Storage Tips for Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread
Room Temperature: Keep your focaccia bread wrapped in a clean kitchen towel or placed in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled focaccia tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag to freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a warm oven for about 10 minutes to restore its crispy crust.
Avoid Moisture: Ensure it’s completely cool before wrapping for the freezer to prevent sogginess when reheated.
Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity with these delightful twists on the traditional Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread!
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious, gluten-free option that everyone can enjoy.
- Herbed Up: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme into the dough for an aromatic boost that fills your kitchen with irresistible scents.
- Cheese Lovers: Try mixing in a variety of cheeses—like cheddar or mozzarella—right into the dough for an extra cheesy experience that’ll take your focaccia to new heights.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes into the garlic oil for a zesty flair that ignites your taste buds.
- Savory Toppings: Top with sliced olives, peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes before baking for a colorful, Mediterranean-inspired dish that adds texture and flavor.
- Sweet Variation: For a delectable contrast, incorporate caramelized onions or drizzle honey over the baked focaccia, creating a unique sweet and savory harmony.
- Nutty Notes: Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pine nuts for a crunchy surprise that complements the fluffy bread beautifully.
Enjoy the process of creating your own version of this warm, comforting bread! For a tasty side, consider serving your focaccia alongside some amazing Garlic Roast Potatoes or a fresh salad drizzled with your favorite dressing.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the instructions until the first rise, then cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate the dough. This helps develop the flavor while maintaining quality. When you’re ready to bake, take it out and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before proceeding with the second rise and baking steps. The bread will still come out just as delicious, providing you with a warm, fresh addition to your meal with minimal effort!
Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ingredients for my focaccia?
Absolutely! For the best results, use all-purpose flour that is fresh and free from any moisture. When choosing garlic, opt for fresh cloves with no dark spots or soft areas. The Parmesan cheese should be freshly grated for optimal flavor, as pre-packaged varieties can be dried out and lacking in taste.
How should I store leftover focaccia?
Keep your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread wrapped in a clean kitchen towel or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 to 2 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store it longer, proceed to freezing!
Can I freeze Garlic Parmesan Focaccia?
Very! To freeze your focaccia, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in a warm oven for about 10 minutes to restore that delightful crispy texture.
What should I do if my dough isn’t rising?
Oh no! If your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to using water that was too hot or too cold, which can affect yeast activation. Be sure you’re using warm water (about 110°F). Alternatively, check the expiration date on your yeast; it might need replacing! If you have to start over, try using a new batch of yeast properly activated in warm water mixed with sugar.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! If you’re accommodating allergies, note that this recipe contains gluten due to the all-purpose flour and dairy from the Parmesan cheese. Consider swapping in gluten-free flour and a dairy-free cheese alternative if necessary. For pets, be cautious; while small amounts of plain bread can be safe, the garlic and high salt content in this recipe could be harmful to dogs, so it’s best to keep it off their plates.
How can I adjust the flavor profile of my focaccia?
The more the merrier! Explore your creativity by adding toppings like olives, caramelized onions, or sun-dried tomatoes before the second rise for a new twist on flavor. Alternatively, you may substitute the Parmesan with other cheeses such as Pecorino or Asiago to create different savory profiles that are equally delicious.
Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread That Will Elevate Dinner!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine 1½ cups of warm water, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 2¼ teaspoons of instant yeast. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. Add 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1½ teaspoons of salt, mixing until a sticky dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5–6 minutes using a mixer or 8–10 minutes by hand until smooth and elastic.
- Coat the kneaded dough with ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil in a bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm area for 1 to 1.5 hours, until doubled in size.
- While the dough rises, prepare garlic oil by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet and adding 3–4 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Transfer the risen dough to a greased 9x13-inch pan, pressing it into the corners. If resistant, let it rest for 10 minutes. Cover and allow to rise for another 30–45 minutes until expanded.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F. Create dimples in the dough and brush it with garlic oil. Sprinkle with ½ cup of Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of Italian herbs, and flaky sea salt. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
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