Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe

Introduction

Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is a flavorful, satisfying Italian classic that’s perfect as a snack or side dish. This soft, aromatic bread combines the rich taste of garlic with the savory sharpness of Parmesan cheese.

Ingredients

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add the flour, salt, and 3 tablespoons olive oil, then stir to form a rough dough.
2. Step 2: Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
3. Step 3: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and press it into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, stretching it with your fingers to create dimples all over the surface.
4. Step 4: Mix the minced garlic with a tablespoon of olive oil, then drizzle it evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
5. Step 5: Bake the focaccia for 20 to 25 minutes until it turns golden brown and the cheese melts and slightly crisps. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, sprinkle fresh rosemary or thyme over the dough before baking.
• Use garlic powder if fresh garlic is not available, but reduce the amount to avoid overpowering the bread.
• Try topping with sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a twist on the classic focaccia.
• Brush the top with olive oil before baking to enhance the crust’s crispness.

Storage

Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container or wrapped in foil at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep it longer, freeze the bread tightly wrapped for up to 1 month. Reheat by warming in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to restore crispness.

How to Serve

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 in the same quantity. Mix it directly with the flour without proofing in water first.

How do I get the perfect soft and airy texture?

Ensure the water is warm but not hot when activating the yeast, knead the dough well, and allow enough rising time until the dough doubles in size.

Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe

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4.4 from 83 reviews

This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is a flavorful, golden-brown Italian flatbread topped with aromatic garlic and savory Parmesan cheese. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or for sandwich making, its airy texture and crispy crust make it a delightful treat to enjoy any time.

• Author: Ria
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dough Ingredients

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt

Toppings

• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the yeast mixture: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
2. Make the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
3. First rise: Lightly oil a large bowl, place the dough inside, and cover with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
4. Shape the dough: Transfer the risen dough onto a well-oiled baking sheet or pan. Press and stretch the dough out gently with your fingers to form a rectangular or round shape about ½ inch thick. Let it rest for another 20 minutes.
5. Add garlic topping: In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Using your fingers, create dimples all over the surface of the dough and brush the garlic-infused olive oil evenly over the top.
6. Add Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously and evenly over the top of the dough.
7. Bake: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the focaccia on the middle rack for 18-22 minutes or until the bread turns a golden brown color and the cheese is melted and slightly crispy.
8. Cool and serve: Remove from oven, let the focaccia cool on a wire rack for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

• For extra flavor, sprinkle with fresh rosemary or other herbs before baking.
• You can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different taste.
• Use room temperature water to activate yeast properly but avoid water that is too hot as it can kill the yeast.
• Storage tip: Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze portions for longer storage.

Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Focaccia, focaccia bread recipe, Italian bread, garlic bread, Parmesan cheese bread