Description
This Crispy and Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is a deliciously fluffy and golden Italian flatbread topped with aromatic garlic and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, this recipe combines a tender crumb with a crispy crust enhanced by a flavorful garlic olive oil brush and a cheesy finish.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Topping Ingredients
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Additional olive oil for brushing (approx. 2 tablespoons)
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 4 cups all-purpose flour, 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast, 2 teaspoons sugar, and 2 teaspoons kosher salt until evenly distributed.
- Add Wet Ingredients and Form Dough: Pour 1¾ cups warm water and ¼ cup olive oil into the dry mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms, pulling together but still slightly sticky.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but manageable.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot until it has doubled in size, approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Shape the Dough: After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release air. Transfer it to a greased baking sheet and stretch or press it out evenly to fit the pan. Use your fingers to create characteristic dimples all over the surface of the dough.
- Prepare Garlic Oil and Add Toppings: In a small bowl, mix minced garlic cloves with about 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Brush this garlic-infused oil generously over the dough’s surface. Then sprinkle ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
- Second Rest: Allow the prepared dough to rest and rise lightly on the baking sheet for 20 to 30 minutes at room temperature while preheating the oven.
- Bake the Focaccia: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the baking sheet with the dough into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the bread is golden brown, the crust is crispy, and the cheese is melted and slightly toasted.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the focaccia from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool slightly. Once cooled enough to handle, slice into pieces and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use warm water (about 100-110°F) to activate the yeast properly.
- For extra flavor, you can add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the garlic oil brushing.
- Allowing the dough to rest before baking ensures a lighter, airier texture.
- Make sure not to over-bake to keep the focaccia moist inside with a crisp crust.
- Store leftovers wrapped in foil at room temperature and reheat for best texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
