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Bake the Best Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – Soft, Cheesy & Flavorful

Learn how to bake the best Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread! Soft, fluffy, and packed with garlic, olive oil, and melty Parmesan, this Italian classic is perfect for sandwiches, dipping, or as a savory snack. Easy to make at home and irresistibly flavorful!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Course Appetizer, Bread, Side Dish
Cuisine Homemade Bread, Italian, Mediterranean
Servings 8 (1/8 of a 9×13-inch pan)
Calories 260 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)
  • Baking sheet or pan (lined with parchment or silicone mat)
  • Pastry brush
  • Dough scraper
  • Cooling rack

Ingredients
  

  • 3 1/2 cups bread flour (or all-purpose flour)
  • 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) instant yeast
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F / 43°C)
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1/4 cup olive oil (plus extra for brushing)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced or roasted
  • 1 tsp sea salt (plus extra for topping)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1–2 tsp fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped
  • Optional: chili flakes or other herbs for variation

Instructions
 

  • Activate Yeast: Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  • Mix Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, olive oil, and yeast mixture. Stir until rough dough forms.
  • Knead Dough: Knead 8–10 minutes by hand or with a stand mixer until smooth and elastic. Avoid over-kneading.
  • First Rise: Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled, 1–2 hours.
  • Shape Dough: Transfer to prepared baking sheet, press into rectangle or circle. Dimple surface with fingers.
  • Second Rise: Cover and let dough rise 30–45 minutes.
  • Add Toppings: Brush with olive oil, sprinkle garlic, Parmesan, herbs, and coarse sea salt.
  • Bake: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake 20–25 minutes until golden and crisp.
  • Cool & Serve: Let cool 5–10 minutes on a rack. Slice and serve warm.

Notes

  • High hydration dough = softer, airier interior.
  • Extended resting/fermentation enhances flavor.
  • Coarse sea salt on top adds bursts of flavor.
  • Brush with garlic-infused olive oil after baking for extra aroma.
  • Variations: rosemary & thyme, sun-dried tomatoes & basil, caramelized onions & mozzarella, or chili flakes for heat.
  • Store in airtight container 2–3 days or freeze baked/unbaked for 1–2 months.
  • Reheat in oven for crisp crust or microwave for a soft snack.
Keyword Garlic Parmesan Focaccia, Herb Bread, Easy Focaccia Recipe, Homemade Focaccia, Italian Bread, Rosemary Focaccia