Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite Recipe

Imagine pulling a tray from the oven and being greeted by the irresistible aroma of garlic and golden cheese—this is Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite in all its glory. With its crisp, olive oil–kissed edges and plush, pillowy crumb, each bite delivers a quartet of flavors: aromatic garlic, nutty Parmesan, pops of sea salt, and an earthy whisper of herbs. It’s a true crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving alongside Italian fare or simply tearing off a hunk for snacking. In this recipe, I’ll show you exactly how to bring this bakery-style classic to your own kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is how a short roster of staple ingredients can create something truly showstopping. Each component plays a starring role, building layers of flavor and texture for the ultimate Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite. Here’s what you’ll need and why each matters:

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the focaccia, creating a soft yet sturdy crumb.
• Instant yeast: Jumpstarts the rise, giving your bread that irresistible airy structure.
• Salt: Essential for flavor and for strengthening the dough.
• Warm water (about 110°F): Activates the yeast and helps the dough come together smoothly.
• Sugar: Feeds the yeast and lends a touch of sweetness to balance the savory toppings.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Rich flavor and that signature tender crumb, plus it crisps the bottom beautifully.
• Garlic, minced: Adds bold, aromatic depth—don’t skimp here if you love garlic!
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses every bite with nutty, salty magic; fresh grating is key.
• Dried Italian herbs or chopped rosemary (optional): Adds extra fragrance and color if you like a touch of herby flair.
• Flaky sea salt: The finishing sparkle and a delightful contrast to the pillowy bread.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite

Step 1: Mix the Dough

Begin by combining the warm water, sugar, and instant yeast in a large bowl. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes—when it starts looking foamy on top, you’re good to go. Add in your flour and salt, then mix until everything comes together in a shaggy, sticky dough. Now’s your moment for a mini arm workout: knead the dough by hand for 8–10 minutes (or by mixer for 5–6) until it becomes smooth and elastic. Don’t worry if it’s still a bit tacky—this means your focaccia will bake up tender and moist!

Step 2: First Rise

Coat your dough ball in extra virgin olive oil and cover the bowl with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise somewhere cozy and draft-free (an oven with the light on, perhaps) for 1 to 1.5 hours, until it’s doubled in size. This is when the yeast works its magic, resulting in a beautifully airy crumb—the foundation of Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite.

Step 3: Prepare Garlic Oil

While the dough transforms, grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and brush it generously with olive oil (this prevents sticking and helps crisp the bottom). Next, in a small saucepan, gently heat 2 tablespoons olive oil with your minced garlic—just until fragrant, about 1 minute. Set aside to let the flavors mingle; this garlicky oil will be the star of your topping.

Step 4: Stretch and Second Rise

Lightly transfer the risen dough to your prepared pan. Using your fingertips, gently press and stretch the dough to reach the pan’s corners. If the dough resists, let it rest for 10 minutes to relax the gluten, then finish stretching. Cover and let it rise again for 30 to 45 minutes—this second ascent ensures an extra-light crumb and those iconic focaccia holes!

Step 5: Top and Bake

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). When the dough looks beautifully puffy, it’s showtime! Press deep dimples all over with your fingers—a fun, tactile step that’s classic to focaccia. Liberally brush on the garlicky oil, then shower the surface with freshly grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of herbs, and a generous flurry of flaky sea salt. Slide into the hot oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and your kitchen smells like heaven.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once the focaccia is gorgeously bronzed, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 5–10 minutes. Then, carefully lift or slide it onto a wire rack so the bottom stays crisp. Slice into generous, warm pieces and get ready for rave reviews—this is Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite in every bite!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite

Garnishes

A final flourish makes all the difference! Sprinkle more freshly grated Parmesan over the warm bread, toss on a pinch of extra herbs, and finish with a drizzle of really good olive oil. For an even brighter flavor, a few curls of lemon zest are delicious—elevate your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite from great to unforgettable.

Side Dishes

This focaccia is wonderfully versatile on your table. Serve it alongside hearty soups, vibrant salads, or any classic Italian pasta dish for a meal that feels like a warm hug. It’s perfect for mopping up sauces or providing a savory counterpoint to a rich tomato stew.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your focaccia into thick fingers for dipping into olive oil and balsamic vinegar, or slice into elegant triangles for a party appetizer platter. Use it as the ultimate sandwich bread—fill with roasted veggies, fresh mozzarella, or thinly sliced prosciutto for an indulgent lunch. No matter how you serve it, Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite shines as both the star and the supporting act.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, allow the focaccia to cool completely before wrapping in foil or storing in an airtight container. It will stay fresh on the counter for up to 2 days, or up to 4 days in the fridge, retaining its lovely chew and savory flavor.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap cooled focaccia tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or tuck it into a freezer bag. It keeps remarkably well for up to 2 months. For best results, slice before freezing so you can grab pieces as needed without thawing the entire loaf.

Reheating

Reheat leftover slices in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes, straight from the fridge or freezer (let thaw slightly if frozen whole). This revives the crisp edges and soft crumb, making your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite taste freshly baked all over again!

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Absolutely! Just dissolve the active dry yeast in the warm water and sugar, then wait for it to become foamy before proceeding. The rise times may be a touch longer, but your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite will turn out just as delicious.

What if I don’t have fresh Parmesan?

While freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor, you can substitute pre-grated Parmesan in a pinch. Avoid the kind in the green can—opt for quality grated cheese from the deli for the best texture and taste in your finished bread.

How can I make it more garlicky?

If you’re a true garlic lover, don’t hold back! You can add an extra clove or two to the garlic oil, or even rub a raw clove over the baked bread for a punchier garlicky finish. Just remember, Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite is all about enjoying bold flavors your way.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Yes—simply swap out the Parmesan for a vegan hard cheese or nutritional yeast for that savory, cheesy taste. The rest of the recipe is naturally plant-based, making it easy to adapt for vegan friends and family.

Why is my focaccia dense, not light and airy?

Dense focaccia is often the result of under-proofing (the dough didn’t rise enough) or using flour that’s too compacted. Always make sure your yeast is active and that you allow enough time for both rises so your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite turns out perfectly fluffy.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried baking bread before, this recipe is your delicious invitation—there’s magic in the simplicity and satisfaction in every golden bite. Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite is the kind of treat that turns any gathering into a celebration, and it’s just waiting to become your new go-to bake. Give it a try, share it with friends, and taste the joy homemade bread brings to the table!

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