“Warm, golden, and irresistibly cheesy, this focaccia is a heavenly treat!”
This Crispy and Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread takes comfort food to a whole new level. I remember the first time I made this bread for a family gathering; the aroma of garlic and melted cheese wafted through the kitchen, drawing everyone in. The first bite was a delightful experience, with a crispy crust giving way to soft, fluffy bread and bursts of garlicky flavor. You’ll soon find that this focaccia pairs beautifully with soups or is perfect for enjoying on its own as a delicious snack.
Table of Contents
Why is Crispy and Cheesy Focaccia a Must-Try?
Focaccia is not only a delicious treat, but it also allows you to showcase your baking skills in a simple way.
Now is the perfect time to try making focaccia at home. This bread is surprisingly easy to create, making it a delightful project for both novice and expert bakers. Focaccia can be customized with a variety of toppings, and the crispy yet soft texture makes it a beloved favorite at any gathering. Pair it with a hearty soup or serve it as a side for pasta dishes like creamy garlic butter lobster tails. You’ll be left with smiles and empty plates every time you make this homemade bread.
What Makes This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Uniquely Delicious?
Unlike many traditional bread recipes, this focaccia features a crispy exterior and an irresistibly cheesy-filled center.
Unique flavors
What truly sets this focaccia apart is the combination of garlic and Parmesan cheese. Each bite is infused with savory flavors that will satisfy your taste buds. The addition of garlic transforms simple bread into something extraordinary. You can even opt for roasted garlic for a deeper flavor.
Texture that impresses
This focaccia achieves a perfect balance of crispy and soft textures. The olive oil used in the baking process creates a golden crust while retaining moisture inside. You’ll appreciate the thoughtful design of dimpling the dough, which helps to trap in the toppings.
Easy-to-make
This recipe doesn’t require any complicated techniques, meaning you can produce expert-quality focaccia in your kitchen with ease. It’s about mixing simple ingredients together and allowing them to rise, making baking approachable for anyone! You can read more about the history of focaccia on Wikipedia.
What Ingredients Should You Gather to Make This Focaccia?
Gathering fresh ingredients is key to making this focaccia bread truly shine.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 4 cups |
| Active dry yeast | 2¼ teaspoons |
| Warm water | 1¾ cups |
| Sugar | 2 teaspoons |
| Kosher salt | 2 teaspoons |
| Olive oil | ¼ cup |
| Garlic cloves (minced) | 4 cloves |
| Freshly grated Parmesan cheese | ½ cup |
The all-purpose flour is essential for the structure of the focaccia. It provides the base for the dough, ensuring that it rises beautifully. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, consider using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Additionally, the yeast is necessary for that perfect rise, while the olive oil not only enhances the taste but also contributes to the bread’s crispy texture. Garlic adds depth of flavor, while Parmesan brings a delicious cheesy element to each bite. Those who prefer other cheese can also choose alternatives like mozzarella or feta.
How Do You Make this Focaccia Step-by-Step?
Your homemade focaccia can be perfectly made by following these straightforward steps.
Step 1: Proof the Yeast
In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top and allow it to sit for about 5 to 10 minutes, until it appears foamy. This proofing process ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic in the dough.
Step 2: Mix Dough
Add the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and olive oil to your yeast mixture. Gently mix it together until a sticky dough forms. Cover the bowl and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours, or until it doubles in size.
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 20-25 minutes |
| Total Time | 2 hours |
| Nutritional Values per Serving | Calories: 220, Carbs: 33g, Protein: 6g, Fat: 8g |
Step 3: Prepare Toppings and Dimple the Dough
Once the dough has risen, mince the garlic and grate the Parmesan cheese. Pour some olive oil into a baking pan and transfer the dough onto it. Use your fingers to create dimples all over the top of the dough. Sprinkle the minced garlic, freshly grated Parmesan, and herbs of your choice on top.
Step 4: Final Rise and Bake
Allow the dimpled focaccia to rise for an additional 20-30 minutes while preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Enjoy your focaccia warm and straight from the oven, or let it cool before slicing.
As you prepare this focaccia, remember to embrace the process. Each step adds something special to the final product, and you can absolutely trust your instincts in the kitchen. If your dough seems too sticky after you add the flour, feel free to add a little more flour, a couple of tablespoons at a time.
What Variations Can You Try for This Focaccia?
Personalize your focaccia to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Diet Swap
This recipe can easily be converted to suit various dietary preferences. For those avoiding gluten, use a certified gluten-free flour blend for a perfect alternative.
Flavor Variation
While the garlic Parmesan topping is divine, you can play with flavors by adding rosemary, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives for a Mediterranean twist. You can also experiment with shredded mozzarella for a more cheesy texture. To explore further variations, don’t forget to check out my recipe for onion focaccia bread.
Serving Idea
This focaccia makes for excellent appetizers, especially when served with balsamic glaze or olive oil for dipping. It also pairs beautifully with soups or as a side to hearty salads. Consider slicing it for sandwiches or layering it with cheese and veggies for a homemade focaccia sandwich.
| Suggested Pairings | Tips |
|---|---|
| Hearty soups | Serve warm for the best experience |
| Grilled meats | Add herbs for extra freshness |
| Cheese platters | Include a variety of dips |
Final Thoughts on This Focaccia Delight
In wrapping up, making this Crispy and Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is not just about baking; it’s about creating delicious memories to share. Even if it’s your first time baking bread, remember that practice makes perfect. If you have any leftovers, they keep well, wrapped in a cloth or in an airtight container for a couple of days. You can even enjoy it the next day toasted for breakfast as a delightful treat. Don’t forget to inspire others with what you whip up by sharing your creation on Pinterest! Share your cooking journey with us on Pinterest!
FAQ
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast in place of active dry yeast. The conversion is typically a 1:1 ratio, and you can add it directly to the mixture without proofing. Just mix it in with the flour, salt, and olive oil.
How do I store leftover focaccia?
To store leftover focaccia, wrap it in a clean kitchen cloth or place it in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze the focaccia by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag.
Does this focaccia need a second rise?
Yes, after dimpling and adding the toppings, it’s important to allow the focaccia to rise again for about 20-30 minutes before baking. This second rise adds lightness and texture to the bread.
Can I add herbs to the dough?
Absolutely! You can enhance the flavor of the dough by adding dried or fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or basil. Mix about 1 tablespoon of your chosen herbs into the flour before adding to the yeast mixture.
What should I serve with focaccia?
Focaccia pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it with soups, salads, or as a base for sandwiches. It is also delightful with dips like olive oil, balsamic vinegar, or hummus.
Crispy and Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread
A homemade bread that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, infused with garlic and Parmesan cheese flavors.
- Total Time: 120 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 3/4 cups warm water
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Add all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Cover and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours until doubled in size.
- Once risen, mince the garlic and grate the Parmesan cheese. Pour olive oil into a baking pan and transfer the dough onto it. Create dimples all over the top of the dough with your fingers. Sprinkle minced garlic, grated Parmesan, and herbs on top.
- Allow the dimpled focaccia to rise for an additional 20-30 minutes while preheating the oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
For gluten-free options, substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Serve warm for the best experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
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