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Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 709 reviews

This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is a deliciously soft and airy Italian flatbread topped with fragrant garlic, freshly grated Parmesan, and aromatic herbs. Perfect as a savory snack or to accompany your favorite meals, this focaccia boasts a crispy golden crust, tender crumb, and a burst of flavor from olive oil and sea salt.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) instant yeast
  • 1½ teaspoons salt
  • 1½ cups warm water (about 110°F)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for greasing

Topping

  • 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or chopped rosemary (optional)
  • Flaky sea salt, for topping

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, salt, and sugar. Stir well to distribute the ingredients evenly.
  2. Add wet ingredients: Pour in the warm water and ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil. Mix together using a spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook to knead for 5-7 minutes.
  4. First rise: Place the dough in a clean, lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 to 1 ½ hours or until it has doubled in size.
  5. Prepare the baking pan: Generously grease a baking sheet or rectangular pan with olive oil to prevent sticking and to enhance crust crispiness.
  6. Shape the focaccia: Punch down the risen dough to release the air, then transfer it to the prepared pan. Gently stretch and press the dough out to fit the pan evenly, about ½ inch thick.
  7. Second rise: Cover the dough loosely with a kitchen towel and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
  8. Add toppings: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Using your fingers, press dimples all over the surface of the dough. Drizzle additional olive oil over the top, then evenly spread the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and sprinkle dried Italian herbs or rosemary if using. Finish by scattering flaky sea salt over the surface.
  9. Bake the focaccia: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the focaccia is golden brown and cooked through.
  10. Cool and serve: Remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature as a side or snack.

Notes

  • For a softer crust, cover the focaccia with a clean towel immediately after baking.
  • You can add other toppings such as olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or caramelized onions for variation.
  • Ensure water is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
  • Use instant yeast for convenience; if using active dry yeast, proof it in warm water with sugar before mixing.
  • Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.

Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Focaccia, Italian bread, focaccia recipe, garlic bread, homemade bread, savory bread

Find it online: https://www.cheftara.com/garlic-parmesan-focaccia-bread-recipe/