Golden Crust Garlic Rosemary Focaccia Muffins – Crispy, Fluffy & Packed with Flavor!
These Golden Crust Garlic Rosemary Focaccia Muffins are the perfect bite-sized twist on classic Italian bread. With a crispy golden exterior and a soft, airy center, each muffin is infused with fresh rosemary, roasted garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil. Ideal as a side for soups, salads, or served warm with butter, they’re easy to make and impossible to resist. Whether you're baking for brunch, dinner, or meal prep, this savory muffin recipe is a must-save for bread lovers!
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Muffin tin (12-cup)
- Spoon or dough scoop
- Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
- Oven thermometer (optional)
- Clear bowl (recommended for proofing)
Ingredients
Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose or bread flour
- 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1½ tsp salt
- 1¼ cups warm water (110°F / 43°C)
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
Flavor Add-ins
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced or roasted
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
Toppings (optional)
- Extra olive oil for brushing
- Flaky sea salt
- Cracked black pepper
- Grated parmesan
- Extra rosemary sprigs
Instructions
- Activate Yeast In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix Dough Add flour, salt, olive oil, garlic, and rosemary. Stir until a shaggy, sticky dough forms. No kneading needed.
- First Rise Cover bowl with a towel or wrap. Let rise in a warm spot for 1–2 hours until doubled. Use a clear bowl to monitor bubbles and growth.
- Prepare Muffin Tin Generously grease each muffin cup with olive oil. This ensures a crisp crust and easy release.
- Shape & Portion Spoon dough evenly into muffin cups, filling halfway. Dough will be sticky—use oiled hands or a scoop.
- Second Rise Let muffins rise for 30–45 minutes until puffed. Press rosemary and garlic into tops for flavor infusion.
- Bake Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 18–22 minutes until tops are golden and edges crisp.Bold tip: Drizzle olive oil over muffins halfway through baking for extra crust.
- Cool & Serve Let cool slightly before removing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Flour: Bread flour yields chewier texture; all-purpose is softer.
- Yeast: Instant yeast can be used without proofing.
- Garlic: Roasted garlic adds sweetness; fresh gives punch.
- Make Ahead: Dough can be refrigerated after first rise. Bring to room temp before shaping.
- Freezing: Freeze baked muffins individually. Reheat in oven at 350°F wrapped in foil.
- Variations: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, caramelized onions, or cheese for flavor twists.