Oh, the smell of fresh bread baking! Is there anything better? Seriously, nothing beats that warm, comforting aroma filling your kitchen. And when it’s this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia? Pure magic! This isn’t just any bread; it’s your new go to for impressing guests or just treating yourself. It’s ridiculously easy, bursting with flavor, and honestly, it makes any meal feel a little extra special. I remember the first time I made this my kitchen was *glorious*, and my family practically inhaled it!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia
Seriously, who doesn’t love amazing bread? This recipe is a winner because:
- It’s super easy to make – even for beginner bakers!
- The garlic and Parmesan combo is just divine.
- It’s incredibly versatile – perfect as an appetizer or side.
- Your house will smell absolutely heavenly while it bakes.
- Everyone will think you spent hours in the kitchen (shhh, we won’t tell!).
- It’s just plain delicious!
Ingredients for the Perfect Garlic Parmesan Focaccia
Alright, let’s gather our goodies! Getting the right ingredients is half the battle, and trust me, these are pretty standard kitchen staples.
For the Dough
This is our yummy base!
- 3.5 cups all-purpose flour: Your main building block.
- 1 tsp sugar: Just a little something to help the yeast wake up and do its thing.
- 2.25 tsp active dry yeast: The magic maker that gives us that fluffy texture!
- 1.5 tsp salt: For flavor, and it helps control the yeast.
- 1.25 cups warm water: Make sure it’s warm, not hot – think comfy bathwater temperature, around 105-115F.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Plus a little extra for greasing the bowl and pan. This makes the dough so soft!
For the Topping
This is where all the garlicky, cheesy goodness happens!
- 1/4 cup olive oil: For spreading all over the top.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Don’t skimp here! Fresh minced is best for that punch.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Use the good stuff if you can; it makes a difference!
- 1 tsp dried rosemary: Totally optional, but it adds such a lovely Italian flair.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Just a pinch to amp up all those flavors.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: For a little zing.
Essential Equipment for Garlic Parmesan Focaccia
You really don’t need anything too fancy for this bread! Just grab a few basics from your kitchen:
- Large bowl: For mixing up all that dough.
- Baking sheet: A good sturdy one that won’t warp in the oven.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For getting those ingredients just right.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Garlic Parmesan Focaccia
Alright, let’s get this amazing bread in the oven! Making this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia is super straightforward, and I promise it’s worth every second. Follow along, and soon you’ll be diving into warm, cheesy, garlicky perfection. This recipe from everydaykravings.com has never failed me!
Preparing the Focaccia Dough
First things first, let’s get our dough started. In your big bowl, just dump in the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Give that a little whisk together. Then, pour in your warm water and that 1/4 cup of olive oil. Mix it all up until it looks like a shaggy mess – that’s exactly what we want! Don’t worry about it being perfect yet.
Proofing the Dough for Lightness
Now, turn that dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Give it a good knead for about 5-7 minutes. It should feel smooth and springy when you’re done, like a little bread pillow! Lightly oil your bowl, pop the dough in, turn it to coat, and then cover it up. Let it hang out in a warm spot for about an hour. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s doubled in size – it’ll look so puffy and happy!
Creating the Flavorful Garlic Parmesan Topping
While our dough is doing its thing, let’s whip up that incredible topping. In a small bowl, just mix together the other 1/4 cup of olive oil, your minced garlic (fresh is key here for that amazing flavor!), the grated Parmesan cheese, and if you’re using it, that dried rosemary. Toss in the salt and pepper too. Give it a good stir so everything is well combined.
Assembling and Baking Your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab your baking sheet and give it a good coating of olive oil. Gently punch down the risen dough and spread it all out evenly onto the sheet. Now, use your fingertips to make little dimples all over the dough – this is what makes it focaccia! Drizzle that glorious garlic Parmesan mixture all over, making sure it gets into those dimples. Bake it for about 20-25 minutes until it’s beautifully golden brown and smells like heaven. Let it cool just a smidge before you slice into it!
Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Focaccia
Okay, so you want this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia to be absolutely perfect, right? Trust me, a few little tricks make all the difference. First off, use warm water for your yeast – not too hot, not too cold, just comfortably warm. I learned that the hard way once! Also, when you’re kneading, really give it a good stretch and fold for about 5-7 minutes. That develops the gluten, which is key for that lovely chewy texture. For proofing, find a cozy, warm spot. A slightly off oven (with the light on, not the heat!) works wonders. And for that gorgeous, golden crust? Make sure you really oil up your baking sheet and don’t be shy with the topping mixture! Want another flavor boost? Check out my velvety French garlic soup – it’s amazing for dipping!
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
So you’re wondering about swapping things out? Totally understandable! For the flour, all-purpose is fantastic, but you *could* try bread flour for an even chewier bite. If you’re out of active dry yeast, instant yeast works too, just make sure to add it directly to the dry ingredients – no need to proof it first! And olive oil? A good quality extra virgin will give you the best flavor for both the dough and the topping. Just remember, substitutions can change things a little, but this recipe is pretty forgiving!
Serving Suggestions for Your Focaccia
This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia is so good, it can totally be the star of the show! But if you’re looking to pair it, imagine it alongside a fresh salad or thick, hearty soup like my velvety French garlic soup. It’s also heavenly as an appetizer with some creative butter boards or a lovely goat cheese appetizer. Honestly, just tear off a piece and enjoy!
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia in an airtight container or wrapped well in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat and bring back that glorious crispness, pop it in a 350°F oven for about 5-10 minutes. A toaster oven works great too!
Frequently Asked Questions about Garlic Parmesan Focaccia
Got more questions about this amazing bread? I’ve got answers!
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you absolutely can! If you’re using instant yeast, you can just skip the step of warming the water and proofing the yeast separately. Just add it right into your dry ingredients with the flour, sugar, and salt. Easy peasy!
How do I get crispy edges on my focaccia?
For those irresistible crispy edges, make sure you’re generous with the olive oil on your baking sheet before you put the dough down. Also, don’t crowd the pan if you’re making multiple smaller focaccias. Giving them a little breathing room helps them crisp up beautifully all around.
Can I make this garlic bread ahead of time?
You can definitely prep the dough ahead of time! After the first rise, punch it down, cover it tightly, and pop it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before you shape and top it. It usually takes a bit longer to come to room temp, but it’s so worth it for fresh focaccia!
Estimated Nutritional Information
Please remember that these are just estimates, okay? The exact numbers can change depending on the brands of ingredients you use and how much you end up eating in one sitting (no judgment here!). Generally, one slice of this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia is roughly around 300-350 calories, with a good amount of fat (thanks, olive oil and cheese!) and carbs from the flour. Protein will be moderate. It’s a hearty slice of deliciousness!
Garlic Parmesan Focaccia
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
- Add the warm water and 1/4 cup olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Lightly grease the bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 400F (200C).
- Grease a baking sheet with olive oil. Punch down the dough and spread it evenly onto the prepared baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, rosemary (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the garlic Parmesan mixture over the dough. Use your fingers to dimple the dough and distribute the topping.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.