Garlic Parmesan Focaccia: The Ultimate Baking Guide Recipe

If you have ever dreamed of baking the perfect bread that bursts with flavor and texture, then this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia: The Ultimate Baking Guide Recipe is your new best friend. This focaccia is delightfully crisp on the outside while soft and airy inside, infused with aromatic garlic and the nutty richness of Parmesan cheese. The addition of fresh herbs and a touch of red pepper flakes elevates it to something truly special. Baking this at home brings a cozy, rustic charm to your kitchen, making every bite feel like a warm hug from a trusted companion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia: The Ultimate Baking Guide Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that tender yet crisply textured bread that melts in your mouth. From the flour’s strength to the fragrant herbs and rich Parmesan, every addition layers flavor and character.

• Bread flour, 500g (about 4 cups): Provides the ideal gluten structure for a chewy, satisfying crumb.
• Instant dry yeast, 10g (2 teaspoons): Helps your dough rise beautifully and develop a lovely airy texture.
• Granulated sugar, 10g (2 teaspoons): Feeds the yeast for a vigorous rise and adds a hint of sweetness.
• Kosher salt, 15g (2 1/2 teaspoons): Balances the flavors and enhances the overall taste of the focaccia.
• Lukewarm water, 400ml (1 3/4 cups): Activates the yeast gently without killing it, perfect for fermentation.
• Olive oil, 120ml (1/2 cup) divided: Adds richness and keeps the bread tender, plus it’s perfect for drizzling and infusing with flavor.
• Garlic cloves, 6-8, minced: Infuses the focaccia with that classic aroma and bold flavor.
• Grated Parmesan cheese, 100g (about 1 cup): Paints each bite with a nutty, salty depth that balances the garlic beautifully.
• Fresh rosemary, 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional): Brings a fresh, piney aroma that complements the garlic and cheese perfectly.
• Dried oregano, 1 teaspoon: Infuses a subtle earthiness that rounds out the herbaceous notes.
• Red pepper flakes, 1/2 teaspoon (optional): Adds a gentle kick for those who like a little spice.
• Sea salt flakes, to sprinkle: Creates delightful bursts of flavor and a pleasant crunch on top.
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Adds a subtle warmth and complexity.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Focaccia: The Ultimate Baking Guide Recipe

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the bread flour, instant dry yeast, granulated sugar, and kosher salt in a large bowl. Be sure to keep the yeast and salt separated at first since salt can inhibit yeast if they come into direct contact early on. This simple step creates the foundation of your dough and sets the stage for a perfect rise.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Pour the lukewarm water and 1/4 cup of olive oil into the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms. This merging of wet and dry transforms simple pantry staples into a promising dough that will soon become soft, pillowy focaccia.

Step 3: First Rise (Bulk Fermentation)

Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and leave it in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours. The dough will double in size, becoming airy and light, an essential step for that irresistible texture.

Step 4: Stretch and Fold (Optional)

After one hour, perform a series of stretch and folds directly in the bowl. This technique strengthens the dough’s gluten network, helping develop a chewy structure. Simply stretch one side upward and fold it over itself, rotating the bowl and repeating 4-5 times. Then cover and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes.

Step 5: Infuse the Oil

While the dough is rising, gently heat the remaining olive oil over medium-low heat and add the minced garlic. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and just lightly golden. This step intensifies the garlic flavor without burning it, creating a delicious base for the topping.

Step 6: Combine Topping Ingredients

In a small bowl, mix the garlic-infused olive oil with the grated Parmesan, fresh rosemary, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. This mixture will generously flavor every nook and cranny of your focaccia.

Step 7: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Generously grease a 9×13 inch baking sheet with olive oil. This not only prevents sticking but ensures a golden, crispy bottom crust, signature to excellent focaccia.

Step 8: Transfer the Dough

Gently move your risen dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Be careful not to deflate it too much—there’s that delicate airiness to preserve!

Step 9: Stretch and Dimple

Slowly stretch the dough to evenly cover the baking sheet without tearing. Then use your fingertips to press deep dimples all across the surface—these pockets will hold the flavorful garlicky topping.

Step 10: Second Rise (Proofing)

Cover the dough again and let it rest for 30 to 45 minutes until it puffs back up and the dimples stay well-defined. This second proof makes sure your focaccia will be light and airy after baking.

Step 11: Preheat the Oven

Heat your oven to 425°F (220°C) so it’s ready to bake your focaccia to golden perfection.

Step 12: Add the Topping

Drizzle the garlic Parmesan mixture evenly over the dough, letting it pool in every dimple. Then sprinkle sea salt flakes generously to add those irresistible bursts of seasoning in every bite.

Step 13: Bake

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the focaccia turns a lovely golden brown and the bottom crisps up. The aroma filling your kitchen will leave you counting down the minutes.

Step 14: Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice it into squares and enjoy warm or at room temperature, sharing the love with friends and family.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Focaccia: The Ultimate Baking Guide Recipe

Garnishes

To make your focaccia even more inviting, sprinkle fresh rosemary or a light drizzle of quality olive oil just before serving. A little flaky sea salt on top adds that professional, finishing touch that makes each slice sing.

Side Dishes

This focaccia pairs beautifully with soups and salads, especially tomato basil soup, minestrone, or a crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette. It also shines as a side for pasta dishes or alongside a cheese and charcuterie board — versatile and always a crowd-pleaser.

Creative Ways to Present

For a striking presentation, consider cutting the focaccia into small squares and arranging them on a platter with small bowls of extra garlic oil or pesto for dipping. You could also add a spread of olives and roasted vegetables to turn it into a vibrant appetizer board.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Garlic Parmesan Focaccia: The Ultimate Baking Guide Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, wrapping it tightly in foil is a great option to maintain moisture.

Freezing

You can freeze this focaccia easily by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or storing it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, just thaw at room temperature overnight.

Reheating

To bring your focaccia back to life, reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This restores the crispy crust and warms the cheesy, garlicky aroma perfectly, just like fresh from the oven.

FAQs

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour, but the texture will be slightly less chewy and airy since bread flour has more protein which helps develop gluten better. It’s still delicious, just a touch different.

Do I have to use fresh garlic for the topping?

Fresh garlic is best for that vibrant, fragrant flavor. Using garlic powder won’t impart the same aroma or depth, though it can work in a pinch if you’re out of fresh garlic.

Is it necessary to do the stretch and fold step?

Stretch and fold improves dough strength and texture, but if you’re short on time, you can skip it. Your focaccia will still be tasty and fluffy, though with slightly less chew.

Can I add other herbs instead of rosemary?

Absolutely! Thyme, sage, or basil work wonderfully with the garlic and Parmesan flavors. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs.

What if I don’t have sea salt flakes?

Regular coarse salt will work, but sea salt flakes provide that lovely crunchy texture and burst of flavor. If you don’t have them, just sprinkle a little less regular salt so it’s not too overpowering.

Final Thoughts

Making this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia: The Ultimate Baking Guide Recipe at home is more than just baking bread – it’s creating a warm moment, a delicious memory. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven or alongside your favorite meal, it’s a true crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and watch how this simple yet extraordinary focaccia becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen too.

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