Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread: Soft, Golden, and Full of Flavor

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Parmesan focaccia bread is the kind of recipe that instantly elevates any meal. With its soft, airy interior and crisp, golden crust, this bread delivers bold flavor without complicated techniques. I love making this focaccia because it feels rustic yet refined, perfect for serving alongside soups, pasta dishes, or even as a standalone appetizer. The aroma alone, with garlic and Parmesan baking into olive oil–brushed dough, is enough to draw everyone into the kitchen. I have tested this recipe several times, and it consistently produces a tender crumb with just the right amount of chew. It is also wonderfully versatile. You can serve it warm from the oven, slice it for sandwiches, or enjoy it the next day lightly toasted. This is a dependable bread recipe that rewards you with bakery-style results at home.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
All-purpose flour provides the structure for the focaccia while still allowing it to remain soft and airy. It is ideal for achieving a tender crumb without heaviness.

Warm water
Warm water activates the yeast and helps create a light, well-risen dough. The temperature should be warm, not hot, to ensure proper fermentation.

Active dry yeast
Yeast is responsible for the bread’s rise and flavor. It gives focaccia its characteristic airy texture and subtle depth.

Granulated sugar
A small amount of sugar feeds the yeast and helps promote browning during baking without making the bread sweet.

Salt
Salt strengthens the dough and enhances flavor. It balances the richness of the cheese and olive oil.

Olive oil
Olive oil is essential in focaccia. It enriches the dough, creates a crisp crust, and adds classic Mediterranean flavor.

Garlic
Garlic brings bold aroma and savory depth. Minced or finely grated garlic works best for even distribution.

Parmesan cheese
Parmesan adds salty, nutty richness. It melts into the dough and browns beautifully on top.

Dried herbs
Herbs such as oregano or Italian seasoning add subtle complexity and complement the garlic and cheese.

Directions

Begin by dissolving the yeast and sugar in warm water and allowing it to become foamy. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt, then add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Knead briefly until smooth, then place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and allow it to rise until doubled in size. Transfer the dough to a generously oiled baking pan and gently press it out with your fingertips, creating characteristic dimples across the surface. Brush with olive oil, sprinkle with garlic, Parmesan, and herbs, then allow it to rest briefly. Bake in a preheated oven until golden and fragrant. Cool slightly before slicing.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.

Servings and timing

This focaccia bread serves eight to ten people. Preparation and rising take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, with a baking time of about 20 to 25 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat slices in the oven to restore crispness, or toast lightly before serving.

Variations and Customizations

Rosemary Garlic Focaccia
Add fresh rosemary for a classic herbal aroma.

Cheese Lover’s Version
Incorporate mozzarella or provolone alongside Parmesan.

Spicy Focaccia
Sprinkle chili flakes over the top before baking.

Whole Wheat Option
Replace part of the flour with whole wheat flour for added depth.

Stuffed Focaccia
Slice horizontally and fill with cured meats or roasted vegetables.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast?

Yes, instant yeast works well and shortens rising time.

Why is focaccia dough sticky?

A sticky dough helps create an airy texture.

Can I make the dough ahead?

Yes, refrigerate overnight and bake the next day.

What pan works best?

A metal baking pan produces the crispiest crust.

Can I freeze focaccia?

Yes, freeze baked slices and reheat as needed.

Is Parmesan necessary?

It adds flavor, but other hard cheeses can be substituted.

How do I get deeper dimples?

Press firmly with oiled fingertips before baking.

Can I add toppings?

Yes, olives, tomatoes, or onions work well.

Why didn’t my bread rise?

The yeast may be inactive or the water too hot.

Is focaccia good for sandwiches?

Yes, it makes excellent sandwich bread.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan focaccia bread is a flavorful, reliable recipe that brings bakery-quality bread into your kitchen. With its soft interior, crisp edges, and savory topping, it is a versatile addition to everyday meals and special occasions alike.

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