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
Scale
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
