Description
This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread recipe offers a soft, airy texture with a crispy golden crust, infused with fragrant garlic and savory parmesan cheese. Originating from Italy, this versatile bread is perfect as a side or main dish and easy enough to make at home using simple ingredients like flour, yeast, and olive oil.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ¼ cups warm water
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- ¼ cup olive oil + extra for topping and greasing
Toppings
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp Italian herbs (optional)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active and ready to use.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir until a sticky dough forms, ensuring ingredients are well combined.
- First Rise: Cover the bowl with a towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours, or until it doubles in size, which helps develop the bread’s airy texture.
- Shape the Dough: Grease a baking pan with olive oil and place the risen dough in it. Use your fingers to create dimples all across the dough surface to create focaccia’s characteristic look and texture.
- Add Toppings: Drizzle additional olive oil evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the minced garlic, grated parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs on top to infuse flavor throughout the bread.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Bake the focaccia for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and crispy, signaling it is perfectly cooked.
- Cool & Serve: Allow the focaccia to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm to fully enjoy the fragrant garlic and melted parmesan flavors.
Notes
- For extra depth of flavor, let the dough cold ferment overnight in the refrigerator.
- Try adding rosemary, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives as toppings for delicious variations.
- Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: garlic parmesan focaccia, Italian bread recipe, homemade focaccia, garlic bread, parmesan cheese focaccia, easy bread recipe
