Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into a warm, fluffy bread bursting with savory flavors, then you are in for a real treat with this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread. This irresistible Italian classic combines the perfect balance of golden, crisp edges and a tender, airy crumb. Infused with the vibrant aroma of garlic and topped with nutty Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, this focaccia brings so much comfort and flavor to any meal or gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen newbie, this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is easy to make and impossible to resist, making it a top favorite that you’ll want to share with everyone you know.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread lies not only in its flavor but also in the simplicity of its ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from creating the perfect dough texture to layering on that signature garlicky, cheesy finishing touch. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to make this delicious bread come alive.

• 4 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone for a soft and airy focaccia crumb.
• 2 teaspoons salt: Enhances all the flavors and strengthens the dough.
• 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet): Helps the dough rise beautifully without fuss.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds moisture and richness to the dough.
• 1 ¾ cups warm water (about 110°F): Activates the yeast and creates the perfect dough consistency.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (for topping): Infuses the garlic and keeps the crust irresistibly crisp.
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced: The aromatic star that elevates the entire bread.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the garlic flavor in the topping.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty kick that melts into the crust.
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or thyme (optional): Provides fresh herbaceous notes for extra flavor and color.
• Additional olive oil for greasing: Prevents sticking and adds a lovely sheen.
• Flaky sea salt for sprinkling: Delivers bursts of crunch and seasoning.
• Fresh parsley or herbs for garnish (optional): Brightens the presentation with a pop of green.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread

Step 1: Make the Dough

Start by combining the dry ingredients – flour, salt, and instant yeast – in a large bowl. Then, stir in the olive oil and warm water until the dough is sticky and well combined. This dough is forgiving, so no need to knead; just cover it and let it rest at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours until it doubles in size. This slow rise creates that coveted soft and airy texture that makes Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread such a delight.

Step 2: Prepare the Pan

Next, generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or sheet pan with olive oil. This ensures the bread doesn’t stick and adds moisture for a crispy bottom crust. Transfer the risen dough to the pan and gently stretch it out to the edges. Let it rest again for 30 minutes so it can relax and puff up a bit more. While it’s resting, you’ll have time to prepare the flavorful topping that really makes this focaccia stand out.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Oil

For the topping, warm olive oil in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the finely minced garlic and a pinch of salt, cooking just until the garlic releases its aroma without turning brown. This gentle infusion captures garlic’s essence perfectly. Remove from heat and set aside to keep the oil fragrant and ready to drizzle over the dough.

Step 4: Dimple the Dough

Using your fingers, press deep dimples all over the surface of the dough. This step is essential because those little wells hold the garlic oil and Parmesan, creating pockets of intense flavor in every bite. Drizzle the fragrant garlic oil evenly across the dimples, then sprinkle on the Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs if you’re using them, and a pinch of flaky sea salt to enhance texture and flavor.

Step 5: Bake the Focaccia

Slide this beauty into a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and the edges look delightfully crisp. The smell is going to drive you wild! Once baked, let the Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread cool for about 10 minutes to set before slicing. This resting time helps the flavors to meld and the texture to perfect itself.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Slicing into warm, fresh Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread and serving it immediately is always a winning choice. Cut it into squares or strips, depending on your serving style, and watch how quickly it disappears. It’s perfect as a snack, appetizer, or accompaniment to nearly any meal.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or other herbs can brighten up the presentation and add a pop of color to Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread. If you like a little zest, a light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil right before serving brings even more decadence to the experience.

Side Dishes

This focaccia bread pairs beautifully with soups, salads, or pasta dishes. Imagine dipping warm strips into a hearty tomato soup, or serving alongside a crisp green salad for a delightful contrast of textures. The cheesy garlic crust also holds its own against rich sauces and roasted veggies.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or casual gatherings, consider cutting the focaccia into bite-sized squares and serving with a trio of dipping oils—extra virgin olive oil infused with chili flakes, balsamic vinegar reduction, and a herbaceous pesto. Another fun twist is to top your focaccia with caramelized onions or sun-dried tomatoes before baking for a new flavor adventure.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep it fresh longer, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap will help maintain moisture while preventing it from drying out.

Freezing

To freeze focaccia, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place pieces in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat for the best results.

Reheating

The best way to bring leftover Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread back to life is by reheating it in a warm oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 10 minutes. This refreshes the crust’s crispiness and warms the interior perfectly, retaining that fresh-baked charm.

FAQs

Can I use fresh yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, you can substitute fresh yeast for instant yeast, but you’ll need to adjust the amount—typically about three times the amount of instant yeast—and dissolve it in warm water before mixing it with the other ingredients.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme?

No worries! Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is delicious even without fresh herbs. You can use dried herbs instead—just sprinkle a pinch on top before baking to add a subtle herbal note.

Is it necessary to dimple the dough?

Absolutely! The dimples hold the garlic oil and toppings, creating those delightful pockets of flavor and texture that make focaccia so special. Skipping this step can result in a flatter, less exciting bread.

Can I add other toppings to this focaccia?

Definitely! While the garlic and Parmesan combo is a classic, you can get creative with toppings like olives, cherry tomatoes, caramelized onions, or even sliced peppers. Just be careful not to overload the dough to preserve its lightness.

How long can the dough rise?

For the best texture, allow the dough to rise for 1 to 2 hours until it doubles in size. If you want to slow down the process, you can refrigerate the dough overnight—just bring it back to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is truly a joy to make and even more delightful to eat. Its irresistible combination of light, airy crumb with that rich garlicky, cheesy crust will quickly become your go-to bread for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and share the love of homemade focaccia with your family and friends—you’ll be amazed at how easy and rewarding it is!

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