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Crispy and Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 124 reviews

This Crispy and Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is a flavorful Italian-style flatbread featuring a crispy crust, soft airy interior, and a topping of minced garlic, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and aromatic herbs. Easy to prepare with a no-knead dough and baked to golden perfection, this focaccia is perfect as an appetizer, side, or snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1¾ cups warm water (about 110°F)
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • ¼ cup olive oil (plus more for greasing and drizzling)

Toppings

  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or thyme (optional, for garnish)
  • Flaky sea salt for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Proof the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and sugar, then sprinkle the active dry yeast over the surface. Let the mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active and ready.
  2. Make the Dough: Stir in the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and ¼ cup olive oil into the yeast mixture. Mix with a spoon or spatula until a sticky dough forms. Do not knead. Cover the bowl with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours until it doubles in size.
  3. Prepare Toppings and Pan: While the dough rises, mince garlic, grate Parmesan, and chop herbs if using. Coat the bottom and sides of a baking pan with a few tablespoons of olive oil. Transfer the risen dough to the pan and gently stretch and press it to fill the pan. Drizzle a little olive oil over the surface.
  4. Dimple and Top the Dough: Use your fingertips to press deep indentations all over the dough surface, creating classic focaccia dimples. Evenly sprinkle the minced garlic, grated Parmesan, and fresh herbs over the top. Optionally, sprinkle flaky sea salt to finish.
  5. Second Rise and Bake: Cover the dough again and let it rise for an additional 20–30 minutes while preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the focaccia for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden and edges are crisp. Let cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Ensure water temperature is around 110°F to properly activate yeast; water too hot or cold can ruin the proofing process.
  • No kneading is required, making this recipe beginner-friendly and quick to prepare.
  • Use fresh Parmesan for best flavor and melting quality on top.
  • Optional fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme add aromatic notes but can be omitted if unavailable.
  • The flaky sea salt topping adds a pleasant crunch and flavor contrast but is optional.
  • Serve warm for the best texture and flavor experience.

Keywords: Focaccia, Garlic Bread, Parmesan, Italian Bread, No Knead Bread, Crispy Bread, Flatbread, Homemade Bread

Find it online: https://kitchenwithkai.com/crispy-and-cheesy-garlic-parmesan-focaccia-bread-recipe/