Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe

If you have a soft spot for crusty, flavorful breads that can transform any meal into a celebration, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread. It’s that perfect combination of golden, dimpled bread kissed with fragrant roasted garlic and a generous shower of savory Parmesan cheese. Each bite delivers a delightful mix of chewy texture and rich, aromatic flavor that makes it a showstopper on its own or paired with your favorite dishes. Once you try making this at home, it’s hard to go back to store-bought bread again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things straightforward and approachable, with every ingredient playing a crucial role. From the fluffy structure provided by the flour and yeast to the garlicky punch and cheesy goodness, each element contributes to a mouthwatering Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread that’s both rustic and sophisticated.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation of the focaccia, giving it that sturdy yet tender crumb.
• Instant yeast: Helps the dough rise beautifully, creating light air pockets.
• Sugar: Just a touch to feed the yeast and balance flavors.
• Salt: Essential for enhancing all the savory notes.
• Warm water: Activates the yeast and hydrates the flour perfectly.
• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps achieve that crispy, golden crust.
• Garlic cloves (minced): The star of the show for bold aroma and flavor.
• Parmesan cheese (grated): Sprinkled on top for that irresistible umami kick.
• Fresh rosemary (optional): Adds a woodsy, herbaceous note that complements the garlic beautifully.
• Coarse sea salt: Final sprinkle that delivers bursts of salty crunch.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread

Step 1: Prepare Your Dough

Start by mixing the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt in a large bowl until fully combined. This dry mixture forms the base of your focaccia, ensuring even distribution of flavors and a strong structure for the bread.

Step 2: Hydrate and Mix

Slowly add in the warm water and olive oil while stirring with a wooden spoon or your hands. You’ll notice the dough quickly come together, sticky and a bit loose, which is perfect for creating that soft yet chewy focaccia texture.

Step 3: First Rise

Cover the bowl with a damp kitchen towel and set it aside in a warm spot. The dough needs about an hour to double in size, bubbling with little air pockets that will give your bread a lovely lift and fluffiness.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

After the rise, gently punch down the dough to release trapped air and transfer it onto a well-oiled 9×13 inch baking sheet. Use your fingertips to stretch it out evenly, pressing dimples all over the surface to create those classic focaccia indentations that soak up flavorful oil and toppings.

Step 5: Garlic Oil and Toppings

In a small bowl, combine minced garlic with a couple of tablespoons of olive oil and brush this fragrant mixture generously across the dough’s surface. Next, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top, and if you love that herbaceous touch, scatter fresh rosemary as well.

Step 6: Second Rise

Allow the dough to rest and rise again for 20-30 minutes to soften and puff just a little more before baking. This step ensures a tender crumb and an inviting, pillowy focaccia.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Just before popping the bread into the oven, sprinkle coarse sea salt over the surface for added flavor and texture. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top turns a glorious golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped underneath.

Step 8: Finishing Touches

Once out of the oven, give your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread a minute or two to cool slightly, then drizzle with a little more olive oil to enhance the crust’s shine and flavor. Slice it while warm, and your kitchen will smell like heaven.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread

Garnishes

Keep it simple by adding a few fresh rosemary sprigs on the side or a light dusting of extra Parmesan. You can even sprinkle freshly cracked black pepper or a dash of chili flakes for a subtle kick. These little extras elevate the rustic charm while highlighting the Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread’s natural flavors.

Side Dishes

This focaccia pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. Think vibrant salads, hearty soups, or rich pasta dishes. It’s amazing alongside a fresh Caprese salad or as a delightful vehicle for olive tapenade or fresh tomato bruschetta. The bread’s savory character complements so many meals effortlessly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, cut the focaccia into smaller squares and use them for sandwiches with your favorite Italian meats and cheeses. Or, turn it into an appetizer platter with sides of herbed olive oil or pesto for dipping. It’s not just bread; it’s a canvas for your creativity.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your leftover Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to two days, maintaining most of its delightful texture and flavor — perfect for snacking or reheating the next day.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, slice the focaccia and freeze the pieces in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, you can toast or warm individual slices straight from the freezer, making it easy to grab a quick, delicious bite anytime.

Reheating

To revive that freshly baked feeling, warm your focaccia in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. This helps restore the crispy crust and soft interior beautifully. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the bread chewy.

FAQs

Can I use fresh yeast instead of instant yeast?

Absolutely! Just remember to adjust the amount because fresh yeast is typically used in larger quantities. Dissolve it in the warm water before mixing with the dry ingredients for the best results.

Is it necessary to use Parmesan cheese?

The Parmesan is what gives this focaccia its unique savory and slightly nutty flavor. While you could experiment with other hard cheeses, Parmesan really brings out the best in this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread.

Can I make the dough in a stand mixer?

Yes, a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment can make the process easier. Mix until the dough is smooth and elastic, but don’t overwork it to keep the texture light and tender.

How do I get those signature focaccia dimples?

Use your fingertips to gently press down across the dough’s surface before baking. These indentations help hold the olive oil and toppings while creating that beautiful appearance and texture.

Can I add other herbs or toppings?

Definitely! While the traditional recipe calls for rosemary, you can experiment with thyme, sage, or even sun-dried tomatoes and olives for a personalized twist on the Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly comforting about homemade bread, and this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is no exception. Its aromatic garlic, cheesy richness, and pillowy texture make it a perfect treat to share with loved ones or to enjoy as a special everyday indulgence. Take the leap and bake a batch – your kitchen and taste buds will thank you!

Print