Are you ready for a weeknight dinner game changer? This easy homemade garlic parmesan focaccia is a quick family favorite made with simple ingredients like garlic and parmesan cheese. Save for later and make it tonight.

Garlic Parmesan Focaccia – The Most Addictive Bread You'll Ever Make

Introduction

Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, aromatic bread that embodies the perfect balance of flavors and textures – soft on the inside, crispy on the outside, and bursting with the savory taste of garlic and parmesan. This garlic parmesan focaccia is not just a recipe, it’s an experience that will elevate your meals and leave you and your loved ones craving for more. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, using everyday ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this focaccia recipe is a must-try that promises to deliver impressive results with minimal effort.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of garlic, parmesan, and herbs creates a rich and inviting flavor profile that complements a variety of dishes, from soups to salads and pasta. Plus, the ingredients are easily found in most supermarkets, making it accessible to everyone.
• Ease of preparation: The steps involved in making this focaccia are straightforward and simple, requiring no special baking skills. It’s a perfect recipe for a quick dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the end result is a beautifully presented and deliciously flavored bread that looks and tastes like it came from a professional bakery. It’s sure to impress your family and friends and become a staple in your household.

Key Ingredients

The magic of this garlic parmesan focaccia lies in its ingredients. You’ll need:
– 1 1/2 cups of warm water
– 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 3 tablespoons of olive oil
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley or rosemary for garnish
You can also use garlic powder as a substitute for fresh garlic if you prefer a milder flavor, and other types of cheese like mozzarella or feta can be used in place of parmesan for a different twist.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by activating the yeast in the warm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. Then, combine the flour, salt, and yeast mixture in a large bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then add the olive oil and continue mixing until the dough comes together in a ball.
2. Step 2: Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
3. Step 3: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down the dough and transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Dimple the dough with your fingers, then sprinkle the minced garlic and parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil and sprinkle with salt to taste.
4. Step 4: Bake the focaccia for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. Remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or rosemary for an added pop of color and flavor.

Handy Tips

• Make sure your yeast is fresh, as this will affect the rise of your dough. If you’re unsure, you can test the yeast by mixing it with warm water and sugar and waiting for it to froth.
• Don’t overmix the dough, as this can lead to a dense focaccia. Mix the ingredients just until they come together in a shaggy mass, then let the kneading process develop the gluten.
• Let the focaccia cool completely before storing it. You can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Heat Control

The ideal temperature for baking the focaccia is 400°F (200°C), and it should be baked for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. Keep an eye on it during the last 5 minutes of baking, as the top can quickly go from perfectly golden to burnt. If you prefer a crisper crust, you can broil the focaccia for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this garlic parmesan focaccia comes from the crispy crust that forms during baking. To achieve this, make sure the oven is preheated to the correct temperature, and don’t open the oven door during the baking time, as this can cause the focaccia to sink. Also, resist the temptation to slice the focaccia as soon as it comes out of the oven – letting it cool for a few minutes will help the crust to set and become crisper.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For an extra crispy crust, try baking the focaccia on a preheated baking stone. This will help to distribute the heat evenly and give the focaccia a crunchy bottom.
• To make the focaccia more flavorful, try adding some dried or fresh herbs to the dough, such as rosemary or thyme. You can also sprinkle some sea salt on top of the focaccia before baking for added flavor.
• For a quicker cleanup, line your baking sheet with parchment paper before placing the dough on it. This will prevent the focaccia from sticking and make it easier to remove from the baking sheet.

Storage Tips

• Let the focaccia cool completely on a wire rack before storing it. This will help to prevent moisture from becoming trapped and making the focaccia soggy.
• Wrap the focaccia tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze the focaccia for up to 2 months – simply thaw it at room temperature or reheat it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Reheat the focaccia in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until it’s warmed through and crispy. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat, as this can make the focaccia dry and tough.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you want to give this garlic parmesan focaccia as a gift, consider packaging it in a decorative basket or tin, wrapped in parchment paper or a clean tea towel. You can also include a jar of homemade marinara sauce or a block of parmesan cheese for a complete Italian-themed gift. Add a ribbon or a gift tag with a personal message, and you have a thoughtful and delicious gift that’s sure to be appreciated.

Flavor Variations

• 🌟 Different spices: Try adding some dried oregano, basil, or thyme to the dough for a unique flavor twist. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top of the focaccia for an extra kick of heat.
• 🌟 Creative toppings: In addition to garlic and parmesan, you can top the focaccia with a variety of ingredients, such as caramelized onions, roasted bell peppers, or sliced olives. Get creative and experiment with different combinations to find your favorite.
• 🌟 Ingredient swaps: If you don’t have parmesan cheese, you can substitute it with other hard cheeses, such as pecorino or romano. You can also use different types of flour, such as whole wheat or bread flour, to change the texture and flavor of the focaccia.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your focaccia turns out too dense, it may be because the dough was overmixed or the yeast was old. Try using a newer batch of yeast and mixing the ingredients just until they come together in a shaggy mass.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have garlic, you can substitute it with garlic powder or omit it altogether. You can also use different types of cheese or herbs to change the flavor of the focaccia.
• Over/undercooking signs: If the focaccia is undercooked, it will be pale and soft in the center. If it’s overcooked, it will be dark brown and crispy. Keep an eye on the focaccia during the last 5 minutes of baking, and adjust the baking time as needed to achieve the perfect texture and color.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the focaccia for up to 2 months. Simply thaw it at room temperature or reheat it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Is it gluten-free? No, this recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can try substituting the flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make a gluten-free version of the focaccia.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger batch of focaccia. Simply multiply the ingredients and adjust the baking time as needed to achieve the perfect texture and color.

Conclusion

This garlic parmesan focaccia is a game-changer for anyone who loves bread. It’s easy to make, delicious to eat, and perfect for a variety of occasions, from casual gatherings to special events. With its rich flavor and crunchy texture, it’s sure to become a staple in your household. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the joy of homemade bread-making. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to make the recipe your own, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. Happy baking!