Name: Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread You’ll Crave Every Bite Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 cups All-Purpose Flour (can mix with whole wheat flour for added nutrition); 1 tbsp Kosher Salt; 2 tsps Instant Yeast (or active dry yeast proofed before use); 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil; 1 1/2 cups Warm Water (around 110°F / 43°C); 4 cloves Garlic, minced (fresh for best taste); 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (Pecorino Romano as alternative); 1 tbsp Fresh Herbs (Rosemary or Thyme, optional); 1 tbsp Flaky Sea Salt (Maldon or similar); 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley or Herbs (optional, for color and freshness)

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Introduction

Garlic Parmesan Focaccia is a soft, flavorful bread bursting with fresh herbs and cheesy goodness. Perfect as a snack or a side, this easy recipe will have you craving every bite.

A golden flat focaccia bread with an airy texture rests on a sheet of parchment paper on a wooden board, displaying deep dimples filled with melted oil and topped with scattered green herb sprigs and coarse salt crystals. Its crust is crispy and browned in patches, while the soft dough beneath shows a light, fluffy interior with a cream color. In the blurred background, a white bowl with a creamy white sauce sits atop a white marbled surface, adding contrast to the warm tones of the bread, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 cups All-Purpose Flour (can mix with whole wheat flour for added nutrition)
1 tbsp Salt (kosher salt recommended)
2 tsps Instant Yeast (active dry yeast can be used if proofed first)
1/4 cup Olive Oil (extra virgin olive oil is best)
1 1/2 cups Warm Water (around 110°F / 43°C)
4 cloves Garlic (minced, fresh delivers the best taste)
1 cup Parmesan Cheese (Pecorino Romano can be an alternative)
1 tbsp Fresh Herbs (Rosemary or Thyme, optional)
1 tbsp Flaky Sea Salt (Maldon salt or similar brand works beautifully)
1/4 cup Fresh Parsley or Herbs (optional for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and instant yeast. Pour in the warm water and olive oil. Stir until a sticky dough forms. Cover and let rise at room temperature for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with olive oil. Once the dough has risen, gently spread it into the pan, stretching to cover the edges. Let it rest for another 30 minutes for a second rise.
Step 3: In a small saucepan, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Use your fingers to create dimples in the risen dough. Drizzle the warm garlic oil generously over the top. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, and finish with flaky sea salt.
Step 5: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the focaccia for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Remove from oven and let cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
Step 6: Cut into squares or strips and serve warm as a delightful side dish or snack.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives to the dough before baking.
Swap fresh herbs with your favorite options like basil or oregano for a personalized touch.
Pair with marinara sauce or herb-infused olive oil for dipping.

Storage

Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in a warm oven (350°F / 175°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore crispness.

How to Serve

A square focaccia bread with a golden-brown top full of dimples is shown on crumpled parchment paper over a white marbled surface. The focaccia has an airy texture with some parts slightly browned and crispy, sprinkled with coarse salt, black pepper, and small green herb leaves scattered across the surface. The crust edges are a light golden color, and the inside looks soft and fluffy. In the background, there is a blurred white cup and some green herbs adding a fresh touch. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, you can use active dry yeast but it needs to be proofed first in warm water with a pinch of sugar for about 5-10 minutes until foamy before adding to the dough.

How do I make the focaccia extra soft on the inside?

Be careful not to overbake and make sure to cover the dough while rising to keep it moist. Using warm water (around 110°F) helps activate the yeast for a lighter texture.