Name: Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread 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; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast; 1 1/4 cups warm water; 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon sugar; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary (optional)

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Introduction

Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is a wonderfully aromatic and flavorful Italian bread that’s perfect as a snack or a side for any meal. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, this focaccia combines fragrant garlic, fresh rosemary, and savory parmesan for a comforting treat you’ll love baking at home.

The image shows a round focaccia bread cut into square pieces arranged on a wooden board. Each piece has a golden-brown top layer sprinkled with chopped green herbs and coarse salt, giving a slightly crispy texture. The inside is soft and fluffy with a white, airy texture visible in the cut sections. The wooden board sits on a white marbled surface, with a small blurred white bowl in the background holding a light brown dipping sauce. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1 1/4 cups warm water
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon sugar
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it stand until foamy, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add the flour, salt, and 1/4 cup olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 3: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and transfer it to a greased baking sheet. Press it out to a 9×13-inch rectangle.
Step 5: Drizzle the dough with olive oil, then sprinkle with minced garlic, parmesan cheese, and rosemary if using. Dimple the dough all over with your fingers.
Step 6: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives along with the garlic and rosemary.
You can substitute fresh rosemary with dried rosemary if fresh is not available, but use about half the amount.
Brush the top with a mixture of olive oil and a little sea salt before baking for a crispier crust.

Storage

Store the focaccia bread in an airtight container or wrapped in foil at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep it longer, refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows thick square pieces of golden brown bread arranged in a circular pattern on a wooden board. Each piece has a crispy top layer sprinkled with green herbs and small white crumbs. The bread inside is soft and fluffy, with a pale color and airy texture. In the background, there is a white bowl with a brown sauce and a garlic bulb on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast. If using instant yeast, mix it directly with the flour and reduce the rising time slightly, as it acts faster than active dry yeast.

How do I make the focaccia dough less sticky for kneading?

Lightly flour your hands and the work surface to prevent sticking, but avoid adding too much flour to keep the dough soft and airy. You can also oil your hands instead of flouring for a less sticky feel.