Description
This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is a deliciously soft and crispy Italian flatbread infused with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and fragrant herbs. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or accompaniment to any meal, this easy-to-make focaccia combines a fluffy interior with a golden, crispy crust topped with aromatic garlic and savory Parmesan. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll bake a flavorful bread that’s sure to impress your family and guests.
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 (plus extra for topping and greasing)
Topping Ingredients
- 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 with the active dry yeast. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active and ready to use.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir until a sticky dough forms.
- First Rise: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and place it in a warm spot to let the dough rise for 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough: Grease a baking pan with olive oil. Transfer the risen dough into the pan, and use your fingers to gently create dimples across the surface of the dough.
- Add Toppings: Drizzle olive oil over the surface of the dough. Evenly sprinkle the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs over the top.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Bake the focaccia for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy on top.
- Cool & Serve: Allow the focaccia to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan in every bite.
Notes
- For extra flavor, try cold fermenting the dough overnight in the refrigerator to develop deeper taste.
- Variations include adding rosemary, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives for different flavor profiles.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Focaccia, Italian Bread, Homemade Focaccia, Garlic Bread, Parmesan Bread, Easy Bread Recipe
