Description
This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread recipe yields a golden, crispy, and flavorful Italian flatbread, infused with minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and optional Italian herbs. Perfect as an appetizer or accompaniment, this focaccia uses a simple yeast dough that rises twice for a soft yet airy texture, finished in a hot oven for the perfect crust.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 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 the warm water and active dry yeast. Let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes until the mixture is foamy, indicating the yeast is active and ready to use.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then pour in the foamy yeast mixture. Stir everything together until a sticky dough forms.
- First Rise: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and place the dough in a warm draft-free area. Allow it to rise for 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough: Generously grease a baking pan with olive oil. Transfer the risen dough into the pan and gently press it out with your fingers to spread evenly. Use your fingertips to create characteristic dimples all across the top of the dough surface.
- Add Toppings: Drizzle additional olive oil evenly over the dough’s surface. Sprinkle minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs on top, evenly distributing the toppings.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Place the baking pan with the prepared dough in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and crispy on top.
- Cool & Serve: Remove the focaccia from the oven and allow it to cool slightly in the pan. Slice and serve warm, enjoying the fragrant garlic and cheesy flavors.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, allow the dough to cold ferment overnight in the refrigerator before shaping.
- Add rosemary, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives as additional topping variations for unique tastes.
- Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Focaccia, Focaccia Bread, Italian Bread, Garlic Bread, Parmesan Cheese Bread, Homemade Focaccia, Easy Bread Recipe
