Garlic Bread Focaccia Recipe

If you’ve ever wished for a garlic bread that is irresistibly soft on the inside yet beautifully crisp on the outside, then this Garlic Bread Focaccia Recipe is exactly what you need in your kitchen repertoire. Infused with fragrant garlic butter, a hint of Italian seasoning, and fresh parsley, this focaccia is a masterpiece of flavor and texture that can elevate any meal or even stand delightfully on its own. Trust me, once you make this, you’ll want to share it with everyone you know.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every great dish starts with simple, high-quality ingredients, and this Garlic Bread Focaccia Recipe is no exception. Each component plays a vital role, from the flour that creates the perfect chewy texture to the garlic butter that brings all the flavors to life.

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives your focaccia its soft yet sturdy crumb.
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast: This magical ingredient helps the dough rise, creating those delightful air pockets.
• 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F): Activates the yeast without killing it, encouraging a spirited rise.
• 1 teaspoon sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness to balance the savory elements.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors without overpowering.
• 1/4 cup olive oil (plus extra for greasing and topping): Adds richness and moisture while helping create that golden crust.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Combines with garlic to create that luscious topping everyone loves.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: The star of this recipe, offering vibrant aroma and punchy flavor.
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried): Gives a fresh, herbaceous lift that brightens the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A warm blend that complements the garlic and parsley perfectly.
• Salt flakes, for topping (optional): Adds a satisfying crunch and a burst of saltiness on each bite.

How to Make Garlic Bread Focaccia Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start your focaccia journey by mixing warm water, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Patience is key here—let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and alive. This step guarantees a light, fluffy bread with plenty of airy bubbles.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients and Knead the Dough

Once your yeast is frothy, add the flour, salt, and olive oil. Stir everything until a rough dough forms, then knead either by hand or with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. Take your time kneading for 8 to 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic—this develops the gluten and ensures a perfect rise and chewiness.

Step 3: First Rise

Generously oil a large bowl and nestle your dough inside, then cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Leave it in a warm spot for about an hour, until it has doubled in size—this rise is what gives your Garlic Bread Focaccia Recipe its airy texture.

Step 4: Shape and Second Rise

Prepare your baking dish by greasing it with olive oil. Transfer your risen dough to the pan and gently press it out evenly. Don’t stress about perfection—those rustic edges are charming! Cover and let it rise again for 20 to 30 minutes, giving it one final puff to create a soft interior.

Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Butter Topping

While the dough rests, mix together your melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, and Italian seasoning. This fragrant mixture will be drizzled over the focaccia, infusing every bite with rich buttery goodness and an irresistible garlicky aroma.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and let it heat thoroughly so your focaccia bakes evenly and gets that perfect golden finish.

Step 7: Dimple the Dough and Add Topping

Use your fingers to gently press dimples all over the surface of the dough—these pockets will hold the garlicky butter, creating bursts of flavor throughout the bread. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture generously over the top, ensuring some pools in the dimples. Finish with a sprinkle of salt flakes if you like that extra crunch and seasoning contrast.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pop your pan into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye out for a beautifully golden, crisp top—that’s your signal that the focaccia is ready to come out and start smelling up your kitchen.

Step 9: Cool Slightly and Serve

Let the focaccia cool for a few minutes so it’s easier to slice but still warm enough to enjoy that melty, buttery garlic flavor at its best. Serve immediately for the ultimate garlic bread experience.

How to Serve Garlic Bread Focaccia Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your Garlic Bread Focaccia Recipe, fresh herbs like a sprinkle of extra chopped parsley or a dash of grated Parmesan cheese make wonderful garnishes. If you want a little heat, finely chopped chili flakes add a surprising kick that pairs beautifully with the buttery garlic.

Side Dishes

This focaccia is a versatile partner to countless meals. It’s divine alongside a hearty Italian soup like minestrone or a classic tomato basil. For lighter fare, serve it with a fresh green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, or use it as a base for dipping into vibrant olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Creative Ways to Present

Get creative by slicing the focaccia into rustic squares and serving it on a wooden board with an assortment of cheeses, cured meats, and olives for an unforgettable appetizer spread. You can also transform it into a tasty sandwich base, layering grilled vegetables, meats, or your favorite spreads for a cozy lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep leftover Garlic Bread Focaccia Recipe fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and storing it at room temperature for up to two days. To keep the crust slightly crisp, avoid refrigeration at this stage.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy your focaccia later, freezing is a great option. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag or airtight container. It will keep beautifully frozen for about 2 to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

Bring your focaccia back to life by reheating it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes. This helps revive the crispness of the crust and warms through the garlicky richness. Avoid microwaving, which can make the bread gummy.

FAQs

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh parsley in the Garlic Bread Focaccia Recipe?

Absolutely! Using dried parsley is perfectly fine and will still provide that herbal note. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about a third of the amount called for fresh to avoid overpowering the flavors.

What type of flour is best for this garlic bread focaccia recipe?

All-purpose flour works wonderfully in this recipe as it balances gluten development for a soft yet chewy texture. If you prefer, you can substitute bread flour for an even chewier bite, but it’s not necessary.

Can I make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it?

Yes! After the first knead, you can refrigerate the dough overnight in a lightly oiled, covered bowl. Just allow it to come back to room temperature and complete the second rise before baking. This can deepen the flavor and make the baking day easier.

What if I don’t have a stand mixer with a dough hook?

No worries at all. You can knead the dough by hand on a floured surface. It just takes a bit more time and elbow grease—about 8 to 10 minutes until the dough feels silky and elastic.

Is it okay to skip the salt flakes on top?

The salt flakes add a delightful crunch and accent the garlic butter beautifully, but they are optional. If you’re watching sodium or don’t have them on hand, just sprinkle a bit of regular salt to taste or leave them off entirely.

Final Thoughts

Making this Garlic Bread Focaccia Recipe is like gifting yourself a moment of pure comfort wrapped in soft dough and bursting with bold garlic flavor. It’s approachable, satisfying, and perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers alike. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and dive into this delicious adventure—you won’t regret filling your home with the enchanting aroma of freshly baked garlic focaccia!

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