Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe
This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread recipe is a flavorful and aromatic Italian-inspired flatbread perfect as an appetizer, side, or snack. Made with a simple dough infused with garlic, fresh Parmesan, and Italian herbs, this focaccia features a crispy golden crust and a soft, airy interior enhanced by the classic combination of olive oil and sea salt. The slow overnight fermentation creates a tender texture and rich flavor that elevates this easy-to-make bread.
- Author: Nora
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 24 minutes
- Total Time: 10 hours 39 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Bread, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Dough Ingredients
- 2 Cups Bread Flour or All-Purpose Flour
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 1 Cup Warm Water
- 1 1/8 teaspoon Instant Yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon Granulated Sugar
- Olive Oil (for dough and drizzling)
Topping Ingredients
- 3 Cloves Garlic, minced
- 2/3 Cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning (dry)
- Maldon Flaked Sea Salt (for topping)
- Prepare the dry ingredients: In a glass bowl, combine the flour and kosher salt by mixing thoroughly to ensure even seasoning throughout the dough.
- Activate the yeast: In a glass measuring cup, stir together the warm water, instant yeast, and granulated sugar. Let it sit for about 1 minute until slightly frothy, which indicates the yeast is active.
- Form the dough: Pour the yeast mixture into the bowl with the flour. Use a wooden spoon to mix until a rough dough forms and all ingredients are combined.
- Refrigerate for slow fermentation: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for 8 hours or overnight. This slow fermentation enhances the flavor and texture of the dough.
- Prepare for rising: Remove the dough from the refrigerator. Lightly oil an 8-inch round cake pan and place the dough in the center, tucking the edges underneath to create a smooth top.
- Let the dough rise: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and allow it to rise at room temperature for 2 hours until it fills the pan and appears puffy.
- Preheat the oven: Heat your oven to 450ºF (232ºC) to get it ready for baking the focaccia.
- Dimple the dough: Drizzle additional olive oil evenly over the surface. Using your fingers, gently press dimples into the dough down to the bottom of the pan without breaking through the dough.
- Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning to create a savory topping.
- Add the topping: Sprinkle the garlic, cheese, and herb mixture evenly over the dimpled dough. Finish with a light sprinkling of Maldon flaked sea salt for crunch and flavor.
- Bake the focaccia: Place the pan in the oven and immediately reduce the temperature to 425ºF (218ºC). Bake for 22 to 24 minutes or until the focaccia is golden brown and crisp on top.
Notes
- Using warm water helps activate the yeast quickly for better rise.
- Allowing the dough to rest overnight in the fridge develops deeper flavor through slow fermentation.
- Use a light hand when pressing dimples to maintain the dough’s structure.
- Maldon sea salt adds a satisfying crunch and bursts of flavor; substitute with kosher salt if needed.
- Freshly grated Parmesan provides a better texture and flavor than pre-grated varieties.
- Feel free to customize toppings with rosemary or olives to suit your taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 1/8 of the focaccia)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Sugar: 1.5 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Focaccia, Italian Bread, Garlic Bread, Parmesan Cheese Bread, Easy Focaccia Recipe, Overnight Dough, Herb Bread