Name: Crispy and Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast; 1¾ cups warm water; 2 teaspoons sugar; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; ¼ cup olive oil; 4 garlic cloves, minced; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

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Introduction

Crispy and cheesy garlic Parmesan focaccia is a delightful bread that combines a golden crust with rich flavors. It’s perfect as a snack, appetizer, or alongside any meal. This easy recipe will have you enjoying fresh, homemade focaccia in no time.

A square focaccia bread cut into smaller square pieces sits on brown parchment paper over a white marbled surface. The focaccia has a golden brown, slightly crispy crust with bubbly, airy texture showing on top layer. Scattered across the surface are coarse salt crystals and small sprigs of rosemary, adding detail with their green color and needle-like texture. The bread looks soft and moist inside with a light yellow tone. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
1¾ cups warm water
2 teaspoons sugar
2 teaspoons kosher salt
¼ cup olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Proof the yeast by combining warm water and sugar in a mixing bowl. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
Step 2: Add the flour, kosher salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours.
Step 3: While the dough rises, mince the garlic and grate the Parmesan cheese. Pour olive oil into a baking pan and transfer the risen dough into it.
Step 4: Using your fingertips, create dimples all over the surface of the dough. Sprinkle the minced garlic, grated Parmesan, and any optional herbs evenly on top.
Step 5: Allow the dough to rise again for 20–30 minutes while preheating the oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the focaccia for 20–25 minutes until it turns golden brown and crispy.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add fresh rosemary or thyme alongside the garlic and Parmesan.
Use sea salt flakes instead of kosher salt for a subtle crunch on top.
Brush the finished focaccia with additional olive oil and a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Make mini focaccias in muffin tins for easy individual servings.

Storage

Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container or wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep it longer, refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes to restore crispiness.

How to Serve

A thick, square focaccia bread with a golden brown top layer that is crispy and dimpled, sprinkled with coarse sea salt and green herb flakes across the surface. The bread shows one piece cut and slightly pulled out from the whole, revealing a soft, airy inside with visible air pockets. The focaccia is placed on brown parchment paper, set on a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast. If doing so, mix it directly with the flour without proofing first, and reduce the rising time slightly since instant yeast acts faster.

What makes focaccia crispy on the outside?

The olive oil coating and high baking temperature help create a golden, crispy crust. Also, dimpling the dough allows oil and air to interact, enhancing texture and flavor.