Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite Recipe
This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is a savory homemade favorite with a crispy golden crust and soft, airy interior. Infused with fragrant garlic oil, freshly grated Parmesan, and a sprinkle of Italian herbs, it’s perfect as a side or snack.
- Author: Lena
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 (9x13-inch) focaccia loaf, approximately 8 servings 1x
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Dough Ingredients
- 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 Ingredients
- 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
- Mix the Dough: In a bowl, stir together warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5 minutes until foamy. Add flour and salt. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Knead using a mixer for 5–6 minutes or by hand for 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth.
- First Rise: Coat the dough with olive oil, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
- Prepare Garlic Oil: Grease a 9×13-inch pan. In a small pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil with minced garlic until fragrant, approximately 1 minute. Set aside.
- Stretch and Second Rise: Transfer the dough to the greased pan. Gently press the dough to the corners. If needed, let rest for 10 minutes, then finish stretching. Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes.
- Top and Bake: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Use your fingers to dimple the dough surface. Brush with the prepared garlic oil, then sprinkle evenly with Parmesan, dried herbs, and flaky sea salt. Bake for 20–25 minutes until the focaccia is golden brown on top.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool for 5–10 minutes in the pan. Transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling slightly. Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add chopped fresh rosemary instead of dried Italian herbs.
- Make sure the water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
- You can add toppings like olives, cherry tomatoes, or caramelized onions for variety.
- Store leftovers wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Focaccia, Homemade Focaccia, Italian Bread, Garlic Bread, Parmesan Cheese Bread