Garlic Parmesan Focaccia: Easy Homemade Bread Full of Flavor

There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen, and this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia takes it to another level. Golden, fluffy, and infused with roasted garlic and parmesan cheese, this bread is the perfect mix of rustic and indulgent. Whether you’re serving it as a side with pasta, dipping it into olive oil, or enjoying it on its own, focaccia makes every meal feel a little more special.

This garlic parmesan focaccia recipe is designed to be approachable for home bakers of all levels. The dough is simple, no fancy equipment is required, and most of the time is just letting it rise. You’ll love how the olive oil creates that signature golden crust while the parmesan and garlic add irresistible flavor.

In under two hours, you can have a loaf of soft, cheesy bread ready to share—or keep all to yourself. The texture is light but chewy, with just the right amount of crisp on the outside. And the best part? This recipe is easy to customize with herbs, toppings, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for a little kick.

If you’ve never made homemade bread before, this is the perfect place to start. Once you try Garlic Parmesan Focaccia, it may just become your go-to bread for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in.

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What Makes This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Special?

• Incredibly simple dough – You don’t need to be a skilled baker. This recipe is straightforward, beginner-friendly, and forgiving.

• Cheesy garlic topping – Parmesan cheese pairs beautifully with garlic, adding bold flavor and a slightly crisp finish on top.

• Crispy on the outside, fluffy inside – Thanks to olive oil and proper rising, you get that classic focaccia texture everyone loves.

• Customizable with add-ins – Easily change the flavor by adding rosemary, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even caramelized onions.

• Perfect for any occasion – It works as an appetizer, side dish, or even the base for sandwiches.

Why should you try this recipe? Because it gives you bakery-style bread without the complicated steps. With simple techniques like dimpling the dough (pressing your fingertips in before baking) and generous use of olive oil, you’ll get the authentic focaccia experience right at home.

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Ingredient Notes

• All-purpose flour – Creates the base for the bread. Bread flour also works and will give you a slightly chewier texture.

• Yeast – Active dry yeast or instant yeast both work. Make sure it’s fresh for the best rise.

• Olive oil – Essential for both the dough and the golden crust. Use good quality extra-virgin olive oil if possible.

• Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated parmesan is best. Pre-grated can be used but may not melt as smoothly.

• Garlic – Roasted garlic adds a sweeter, mellow flavor, while raw garlic gives a sharper bite. Both work depending on preference.

• Sugar – A small amount helps activate the yeast. Honey can be substituted.

• Salt – Enhances the flavor and balances the garlic and cheese. Use sea salt or kosher salt for the best taste.

• Optional herbs – Rosemary, thyme, or oregano are classic focaccia toppings.

Special equipment: A 9×13-inch baking pan or a rimmed sheet pan works perfectly.

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How to Make Garlic Parmesan Focaccia

1. Activate the yeast
   In a bowl, combine 1 cup warm water (about 110°F), 1 teaspoon sugar, and 2 ¼ teaspoons yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. Mix the dough
   Add 2 ½ cups flour, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and 1 teaspoon salt. Mix until a sticky dough forms.

3. Knead the dough
   On a floured surface, knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. (If using a stand mixer, knead with a dough hook for 5 minutes.)

4. First rise
   Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

5. Prepare the pan
   Generously oil a 9×13-inch baking pan. Place the dough in and stretch it to fit. Let rest 20 minutes.

6. Dimple the dough
   Press your fingertips into the dough, making deep dimples across the surface. Drizzle with olive oil.

7. Add toppings
   Sprinkle minced garlic and parmesan cheese evenly over the dough. Add herbs if desired.

8. Second rise
   Cover loosely and let rise another 20 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

9. Bake
   Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and crisp around the edges.

10. Cool and serve
    Let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with extra olive oil for dipping.

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Storage Options

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

• Refrigeration: Wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 5 days.

• Freezing: Wrap in foil and place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.

• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which makes the bread chewy.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Herb Focaccia – Add rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough or on top.

• Cheddar & Jalapeño – Swap parmesan for cheddar and top with sliced jalapeños for a spicy twist.

• Caramelized Onion Focaccia – Spread sweet caramelized onions on top before baking.

• Gluten-free version – Use a gluten-free all-purpose blend designed for yeast breads.

• Vegan option – Omit parmesan or use vegan cheese alternatives.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose?
Yes, bread flour gives a chewier texture, but all-purpose works just fine.

2. My dough didn’t rise—what went wrong?
Most likely your yeast was old or your water was too hot and killed it. Aim for 105–110°F water.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can let the dough rise in the fridge overnight. Just bring it to room temperature before baking.

4. Can I use pre-minced garlic?
You can, but fresh garlic has better flavor. If using pre-minced, reduce slightly since it’s stronger.

5. How do I keep the bread soft after baking?
Store in an airtight container and avoid leaving it uncovered. Adding a little extra olive oil helps too.

6. Can I make focaccia in a cast iron skillet?
Absolutely. It gives a wonderfully crispy bottom crust.

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Conclusion

This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia is the kind of bread that turns a simple meal into something memorable. It’s easy, customizable, and full of flavor, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your creations—I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!

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