Crispy and Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe
Introduction
Crispy and Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is a perfect savory treat with a golden crust and soft, flavorful interior. This easy recipe combines garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil for a delicious bread that’s great as a snack or alongside your favorite meals.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1¾ cups warm water
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- Step 2: Add the flour, kosher salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours.
- Step 3: While the dough rises, mince the garlic and grate the Parmesan cheese. When the dough has doubled in size, pour a bit of olive oil into a baking pan and transfer the dough to it.
- Step 4: Use your fingertips to create dimples all over the dough surface. Evenly sprinkle the minced garlic and grated Parmesan on top. Optionally, add your favorite herbs for extra flavor.
- Step 5: Let the dough rise again for 20–30 minutes as you preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the focaccia for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add fresh rosemary or thyme on top before baking.
- Use fine sea salt sprinkled over the finished bread for a nice texture contrast.
- Try substituting Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
Storage
Store the focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep it fresh longer, wrap it tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat by warming in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to regain 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 use instant yeast. Since it doesn’t require proofing, mix it directly with the flour and other dry ingredients, then proceed with the recipe.
How do I make the focaccia extra crispy?
Make sure to use enough olive oil in the baking pan and bake at a high temperature (425°F). Allowing the dough to develop dimples and topping with garlic and cheese also helps create a crispy, flavorful crust.
PrintCrispy and Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe
This Crispy and Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is a delightful homemade Italian bread featuring a golden, crispy crust topped with aromatic garlic, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and a hint of olive oil. Perfect as a savory snack or accompaniment to any meal, this focaccia offers a tender, airy crumb with flavorful dimples infused with garlic and cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 focaccia bread (serves 8) 1x
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1¾ cups warm water
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- ¼ cup olive oil
Toppings
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Proof the Yeast: In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water and sugar, then sprinkle the active dry yeast on top. Allow it to sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix Dough: Add the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and olive oil to the bowl with the yeast mixture. Mix thoroughly until a sticky dough forms. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare Toppings and Pan: While the dough is rising, mince the garlic cloves and grate the Parmesan cheese. Pour some olive oil into a baking pan to coat the bottom and transfer the risen dough into it.
- Dimple Dough and Add Toppings: Using your fingertips, create dimples across the surface of the dough. Evenly sprinkle the minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Optionally, you can add herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.
- Final Rise and Bake: Allow the dough to rise again in the pan for 20 to 30 minutes while preheating the oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the focaccia in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until it turns golden brown and crispy on the edges.
Notes
- Ensure the water is warm but not hot to properly activate the yeast.
- You can add fresh or dried herbs like rosemary for extra aroma and flavor.
- Serve warm with olive oil or as a side to soups and salads.
- Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for crispiness.
Keywords: focaccia bread, garlic parmesan focaccia, homemade focaccia, Italian bread, cheesy garlic bread
