Crispy and Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe
Introduction
This Crispy and Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is a perfect blend of crunchy crust and soft, flavorful inside. Ideal as a snack or a side, its garlic and Parmesan cheese topping adds a delicious savory touch you’ll want to make again and again.
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: Proof the yeast by combining the warm water and sugar in a mixing bowl. 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 with the yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours until doubled in size.
- Step 3: Meanwhile, mince the garlic and grate the Parmesan cheese. Once the dough has risen, drizzle some olive oil into a baking pan and transfer the dough into it.
- Step 4: Using your fingertips, create dimples all over the surface of the dough. Sprinkle the minced garlic and grated Parmesan evenly on top. Add herbs if desired for extra flavor.
- Step 5: Allow the dough to rise again for 20–30 minutes while you preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the focaccia for 20–25 minutes until it develops a golden-brown crust.
Tips & Variations
- For a more aromatic focaccia, add fresh rosemary or thyme along with the garlic and Parmesan before baking.
Storage
Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in a warm oven for a few minutes to restore its crispiness before serving.
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; just mix it directly with the flour and skip the proofing step. The rising time may be shorter.
How do I keep my focaccia soft on the inside?
Make sure not to overbake the bread and allow it to rise sufficiently. Brushing with olive oil before and after baking also helps keep it moist inside.
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Crispy and Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 large focaccia bread (about 8 servings) 1x
Description
This Crispy and Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is a delicious homemade bread featuring a golden, crispy crust topped with fragrant garlic and savory Parmesan cheese. Perfect as a side or appetizer, its soft, airy interior contrasts beautifully with the flavorful toppings, making it an irresistible treat for bread lovers.
Ingredients
Dough
- 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. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is active.
- Mix Dough: Add the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and olive oil to the bowl containing the yeast mixture. Mix these ingredients until a sticky dough forms. Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1½ hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare Toppings: While the dough is rising, mince the garlic cloves and grate the Parmesan cheese. Once the dough has risen, pour olive oil into a baking pan and transfer the dough into it, spreading it out evenly.
- Dimple Dough: Using your fingertips, press into the dough to create dimples all over the surface. Sprinkle the minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. You may also add herbs like rosemary or thyme if desired.
- Final Rise & Bake: Allow the dough to rise again for an additional 20 to 30 minutes while preheating the oven to 425°F (220°C). Once ready, bake the focaccia in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes until it turns golden brown and crispy on top. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use warm water (about 100°F/38°C) when proofing yeast to activate it properly without killing it.
- Letting the dough rise fully is important for a light, airy texture.
- Dimpling the dough helps to create the classic focaccia texture and traps olive oil and toppings.
- Feel free to add herbs like rosemary or thyme on top for added flavor.
- This bread is best served warm and fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: focaccia bread, garlic bread, Parmesan bread, Italian bread, homemade bread, cheesy focaccia, crispy bread
