Name: The Best Garlic Parmesan Focaccia You’ll Ever Bake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast; 1 tsp sugar; 1 tsp salt; 1 cup warm water (110°F); 3 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for brushing; 3 garlic cloves, minced; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme, optional)

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Introduction

This garlic Parmesan focaccia is a simple yet flavorful Italian bread that’s perfect for any occasion. With a soft, fluffy interior and a golden, garlicky crust, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

The image shows a round, golden focaccia bread placed on white parchment paper on a wooden board. The focaccia has a thick, soft dough base that is golden-brown on the edges and light yellow with air pockets on top. It is topped with small pieces of toasted garlic, chopped green herbs, and a sprinkle of coarse salt crystals that add texture and color contrast. The surface looks slightly glossy and uneven, showing the bread’s airy and fluffy texture. The background has a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
1 cup warm water (110°F)
3 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for brushing
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp salt
3 garlic cloves, minced
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
Step 2: Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix until combined, then knead the dough for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 3: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise for about 45 minutes or until it has doubled in size.
Step 4: Press the risen dough into a greased baking pan. Use your fingertips to dimple the surface of the dough.
Step 5: Drizzle olive oil over the top, then sprinkle with minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs if using.
Step 6: Bake the focaccia at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until it turns golden brown.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and brush lightly with olive oil. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For extra garlic flavor, mix the minced garlic into the dough before the first rise.
Use high-quality olive oil to enhance the bread’s flavor.
Let the bread cool slightly before slicing to maintain a soft and fluffy interior.
Try adding other herbs like basil or oregano for a different twist.

Storage

Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep it longer, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in a warm oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes to restore its crispiness.

How to Serve

A round focaccia bread sits on slightly crumpled parchment paper placed over a wooden board, with the bread showing a soft, golden top layer that is slightly crispy and dimpled. The top layer is speckled with finely chopped green herbs and bits of golden toasted garlic, along with small white grains that look like coarse salt or cheese. The edges are slightly browned, showing a fluffy, thick dough underneath with a light airy texture visible between the dimples. One slice is cut, creating an opening to see the inner soft, white bread. The surface beneath the board is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast. Since it doesn’t require proofing, mix it directly with the dry ingredients and reduce the warm water slightly if needed.

Can I make this focaccia without fresh herbs?

Absolutely. Fresh herbs add extra aroma and flavor, but the focaccia is delicious with just garlic and Parmesan as well.