As the aroma of freshly baked bread wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but smile—there’s something undeniably inviting about that warm, buttery scent. This Classic Garlic Bread Focaccia fuses the comforting, familiar flavors of traditional garlic bread with the luscious, chewy texture of focaccia. It’s incredibly versatile, making it the perfect companion to pasta, a delightful appetizer for gatherings, or a blissful snack all on its own. What I love most about this simple recipe is that it not only allows for significant make-ahead prep—perfect for those busy evenings—but it also ensures that every bite feels like a warm hug. Curious about how to create this divine bread that will have everyone reaching for a second slice? Let’s get started!
Why is Garlic Bread Focaccia a Must-Make?
Irresistible Aroma: Imagine the mouthwatering scent of garlic and butter filling your kitchen—it’s pure bliss!
Quick and Easy: This focaccia is simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and techniques. Perfect for novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike!
Versatile Delight: Serve it as an appetizer at your next gathering, alongside your favorite pasta, or simply snack on it while watching a movie!
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance for an easy dinner solution. This recipe allows for significant make-ahead prep, giving you flexibility on busy days.
Hearty Textures: With its chewy crust and soft interior, this garlic bread focaccia offers a delicious contrast, making it perfect for either dipping or nibbling.
Elevate your meal with this garlic bread focaccia, or pair it with something hearty like Cheesy Garlic Butter Steak or a light soup for the ultimate comfort dining experience!
Garlic Bread Focaccia Ingredients
• Get ready to bake a delightful treat!
For the Dough
- Warm Water – Activates the yeast; make sure it’s around 110°F for best results.
- Active Dry Yeast – Key for leavening the focaccia, creating that airy texture.
- Granulated Sugar – Aids fermentation by feeding the yeast, enhancing the flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure and chewiness; swap for bread flour for extra texture.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances the flavor without overwhelming; avoid using table salt.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Adds moisture and a luscious flavor, especially when drizzled on top.
For the Topping
- Flaky Sea Salt – Provides a crunchy topping for enhanced taste and texture.
- Chopped Flat-Leaf Parsley – For a fresh garnish, bringing color and vibrancy to your focaccia.
- Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese – Finishes the focaccia with a rich, sharp flavor that elevates every bite.
- Salted Butter – Essential for the garlic butter; it enriches the focaccia upon pouring.
- Garlic (Minced or Pressed) – Imparts a robust, aromatic flavor synonymous with garlic bread.
Let’s bring that homely aroma of garlic bread focaccia to life!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Bread Focaccia
Step 1: Activate Yeast
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water (around 110°F), 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast, and 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar. Stir gently until mixed, then let it sit for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes foamy. This bubbly reaction signals that your yeast is active and ready to create the airy texture in your garlic bread focaccia.
Step 2: Prepare Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 2 teaspoons of kosher salt. Once combined, add the yeast mixture and 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil. Knead the dough by hand for about 6 minutes, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment. The dough should be smooth and elastic, signaling it’s ready for the first rise.
Step 3: First Rise
Lightly oil a clean bowl and place your kneaded dough into it, turning to coat all sides. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, then refrigerate for 24 hours. This slow rise allows for flavor development that enhances the overall taste of your garlic bread focaccia and makes it irresistibly delicious.
Step 4: Prepare for Baking
After chilling, take the dough out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. Generously coat a baking pan with olive oil, then gently stretch the dough to fit the pan. Let it rise for about 3 hours in a warm area, until it puffs up. Look for doubled in size; this signals it’s ready for baking.
Step 5: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 450°F, ensuring it’s hot and ready for baking. While the oven heats, use your fingers to dimple the surface of the dough, creating small pockets. Drizzle with additional olive oil and sprinkle flaky sea salt on top, preparing your garlic bread focaccia for that crispy, flavorful crust.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake the focaccia for 20-25 minutes. Rotate the pan halfway through to ensure even browning. The top should be golden brown and the edges crisp, inviting you to take a bite of this delectable garlic bread focaccia masterpiece!
Step 7: Make Garlic Butter
While the focaccia bakes, melt 1/4 cup of salted butter in a small pan over low heat. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic, gently sautéing until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Once the focaccia is done baking, brush this garlic butter generously over the hot bread for an extra flavor boost that complements the garlic notes perfectly.
Step 8: Finish with Cheese and Parsley
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese over the warm focaccia, letting it melt slightly into the bread. Top with a handful of chopped flat-leaf parsley for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Allow the garlic bread focaccia to cool slightly on a wire rack before slicing into it, ready to be enjoyed!
Expert Tips for Garlic Bread Focaccia
• Perfect Water Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure water is about 110°F, as too hot can kill the yeast, preventing the beautiful rise necessary for garlic bread focaccia.
• Don’t Rush the Risen Time: Patience is key! Allow the dough to rise fully during both the refrigerator and room-temperature phases for the best texture and flavor.
• Dimpling Technique: When dimpling, don’t be afraid to press firmly! This technique creates the unique texture and allows garlic butter to soak in beautifully once baked.
• Quality Ingredients Matter: Opt for high-quality extra-virgin olive oil and cheese; these ingredients significantly elevate the flavor of your garlic bread focaccia.
• Cool Before Slicing: Let the focaccia rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This prevents a gummy texture and helps retain its delightful airy structure.
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Bread Focaccia
Room Temperature: Enjoy your garlic bread focaccia fresh for up to 2 days. Wrap it in a kitchen towel to keep it soft and protect it from drying out.
Fridge: If you need to store it longer, refrigerate the focaccia for up to 1 week. Make sure to wrap it in foil or place it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For extended storage, freeze portions of the focaccia. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then label with the date. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To revive the focaccia, preheat your oven to 350°F, and reheat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy on the outside. Enjoy that wonderful garlic flavor all over again!
What to Serve with Classic Garlic Bread Focaccia
Experience a meal that dances on your taste buds by complementing this flavorful bread with delightful sides and beverages.
- Pasta Primavera: A colorful medley of sautéed vegetables tossed in olive oil pairs beautifully, allowing the focaccia to soak up the vibrant flavors.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons create a refreshing contrast to the fluffy focaccia.
- Tomato Basil Soup: The rich, comforting soup is perfect for dipping; the focaccia’s texture makes each bite a heavenly experience.
- Charcuterie Board: Elevate gatherings with a selection of cured meats, cheeses, and olives that complement every rustic bite of garlic bread focaccia.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized add a lovely sweetness, balancing the savory garlic notes of the focaccia.
- Red Wine: A full-bodied red, like Chianti, enhances the garlic flavors beautifully while creating a warm, inviting dining atmosphere.
- Herb-Infused Olive Oil: Drizzle this on the focaccia for an extra burst of flavor; it’s an exquisitely simple way to elevate your dish.
- Chocolate Mousse: A decadent, creamy dessert to wrap up your meal; the rich cocoa balances with the savory bites leading up to it.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Classic Garlic Bread Focaccia ahead of time makes weeknight meals effortless! You can complete the first rise of the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours, allowing the flavors to deepen beautifully. After kneading the dough, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and let it chill. When you’re ready to bake, just stretch it into the oiled baking pan, let it rise at room temperature for about 3 hours, and then follow the baking steps. To maintain its quality, ensure it’s kept well-wrapped in the fridge to prevent drying out. This way, you’ll enjoy the delight of freshly baked garlic bread focaccia with minimal fuss on busy days!
Garlic Bread Focaccia: Endless Possibilities
Feel free to explore delightful variations that can elevate your garlic bread focaccia experience—each bite is an adventure waiting to unfold!
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Roasted Garlic: Swap fresh garlic for roasted garlic to introduce a rich, sweet flavor that perfectly complements the dough.
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Herb-Infused Olive Oil: Infuse your olive oil with herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fragrant twist that adds depth to the focaccia.
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Cheese Explosion: Incorporate cubes of melty cheese like mozzarella or fontina within the dough before baking for gooey pockets of deliciousness.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a flavorful heat that dances on your taste buds, perfect for those who love a spicy touch!
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Veggie Toppings: Explore topping options like cherry tomatoes, olives, or sautéed bell peppers for bursts of flavor and color that enhance your focaccia.
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Whole Wheat Alternative: Swap some of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and a healthier spin on this classic recipe.
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Sweet Variation: Drizzle honey or sprinkle cinnamon before serving for an unexpected sweet and savory profile that’s perfect for brunch!
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Charcuterie Board Companion: Slice and serve with meats or cheeses from a beautiful charcuterie board, pairing perfectly with dishes like Cheesy Garlic Butter Steak or creamy soups as an appetizer.
Embrace these imaginative variations and make each baking session something special—your loved ones won’t know what hit them!
Garlic Bread Focaccia Recipe FAQs
What type of garlic should I use for the best flavor?
I recommend using fresh garlic, either minced or pressed, for the most aromatic and pungent flavor. While you can substitute with garlic powder in a pinch, nothing truly beats the flavor of freshly minced garlic in this garlic bread focaccia!
How long can I store garlic bread focaccia?
You can keep your garlic bread focaccia fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days. To maximize freshness, wrap it in a kitchen towel, helping it stay soft. If you plan to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in foil and refrigerate for up to a week.
Can I freeze garlic bread focaccia?
Absolutely! To freeze, cut the focaccia into portions and wrap each tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil. Label them with the date, and they can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
What should I do if my focaccia doesn’t rise?
This can happen if the yeast is expired or if the water was too hot or too cold. Make sure your warm water is around 110°F to activate the yeast correctly. If it doesn’t become foamy after 10 minutes, you may need to start over with fresh yeast to ensure a successful rise!
Can garlic bread focaccia be made gluten-free?
Yes! To make a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum, which helps mimic the elasticity of gluten. Keep in mind that the texture might differ slightly, but it will still be delicious!
Is garlic bread focaccia suitable for pets?
Garlic can be toxic to dogs and cats when consumed in large quantities, so it’s best to keep this delectable garlic bread focaccia away from your furry friends. Stick with pet-friendly treats to keep them safe while you enjoy this savory delight!
Garlic Bread Focaccia: A Savory Twist on a Classic Favorite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let sit for about 10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour and kosher salt. Add yeast mixture and olive oil, then knead for about 6 minutes until smooth.
- Lightly oil a bowl, place dough inside, cover and refrigerate for 24 hours.
- After chilling, let the dough come to room temperature, then stretch it to fit a greased baking pan and let it rise for about 3 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F, dimple the dough, drizzle olive oil, and sprinkle salt.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown, rotating halfway through.
- Melt butter in a pan, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Brush garlic butter over the focaccia after baking.
- Sprinkle cheese and parsley on top, let cool slightly before slicing.
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