As the aroma of freshly baked bread fills the kitchen, I can practically hear the cheers of satisfaction from family and friends. This Classic Garlic Bread Focaccia transforms an everyday meal into a delightful feast with its buttery, garlicky flavors and that irresistible chewy texture. Perfectly suited as a comforting side dish or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, it’s a versatile addition to pasta nights or grilled steaks. The best part? This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the company of your loved ones without the stress. Have you ever tried making focaccia at home? Let’s dive into this fantastic recipe that promises to elevate your dining experience! Why is Garlic Bread Focaccia a Must-Try? Irresistible Flavor: This focaccia bursts with buttery, garlicky goodness that pairs perfectly with any meal. Easy to Make Ahead: An effortless recipe for stress-free entertaining—prep in advance and wow your guests! Delectable Texture: Golden edges with a chewy, airy center create a delightful contrast in every bite. Versatile Delight: Serve as a side to pasta, or use it to soak up marinara sauce, much like with our Cheesy Garlic Bread! Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This focaccia is destined to become a family favorite, loved by both kids and adults alike. Garlic Bread Focaccia Ingredients For the Dough Warm Water – Activates the yeast; make sure it’s around 110°F for optimal performance. Active Dry Yeast – Essential for leavening; fresh yeast yields the best results. Granulated Sugar – Feeds the yeast, enhancing fermentation for a fluffy focaccia. All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; for a chewier texture, consider using bread flour. Kosher Salt – Adds flavor without excessive sodium; avoid table salt for best results. Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Infuses richness and moisture; don’t skimp on this before baking. For the Toppings Flaky Sea Salt – A savory finish that enhances the overall flavor. Chopped Flat-Leaf Parsley – Adds a fresh garnish for visual appeal and brightness. Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese – A nutty, salty kick that elevates the taste of your focaccia. Salted Butter – Forms the garlic butter, a delightful addition on top. Garlic (minced or pressed) – Provides the signature flavor; fresh garlic is key for the best taste. These simple yet essential ingredients come together to create a Garlic Bread Focaccia that’s bound to steal the show at your next gathering! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Bread Focaccia Step 1: Activate Yeast In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water (around 110°F), 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast, and 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar. Stir gently and let it rest for about 10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy. This step ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic, which is essential for creating the airy texture of your Garlic Bread Focaccia. Step 2: Prepare Dough In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Once mixed, pour in the activated yeast mixture. Using your hands or a stand mixer with a dough hook, knead the dough for approximately 6 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This vital step develops gluten, giving your focaccia its wonderful structure. Step 3: Ferment Coat a clean bowl with a tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil and place the kneaded dough inside. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and refrigerate the dough for 24 hours. This slow fermentation process will deepen the flavors and enhance the texture of your Garlic Bread Focaccia, making it irresistibly delicious. Step 4: Rest and Rise After 24 hours, remove the dough from the refrigerator. Generously coat a 9×13-inch baking pan with olive oil, then stretch and gently press the dough into the pan. Cover it again with a cloth, and let it rise at room temperature for about 3 hours until it has doubled in size. This rise is crucial for that soft, airy inside. Step 5: Preheat Oven Preheat your oven to 450°F for at least 5-10 minutes. This step ensures your oven is hot enough to create the perfect crust on your Garlic Bread Focaccia. Meanwhile, prepare your toppings while the oven heats up, getting ready for that golden-brown finish. Step 6: Prepare for Baking Once the focaccia has risen, drizzle more olive oil on top and use your fingertips to create dimples across the surface. Sprinkle generously with flaky sea salt, allowing it to accentuate the flavors. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the focaccia is golden brown and the edges are crispy. Step 7: Make Garlic Butter While the focaccia bakes, melt 4 tablespoons of salted butter in a small saucepan over low heat, then add 4 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned. This garlic butter will infuse your Garlic Bread Focaccia with a rich, garlicky flavor as soon as it comes out of the oven. Step 8: Cool and Serve Once baked, remove the focaccia from the oven and immediately pour the garlic butter mixture over the hot bread. Garnish with freshly chopped flat-leaf parsley and grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese for a finishing touch. Allow the focaccia to cool slightly before slicing, ensuring each piece retains its delightful texture while still being warm to the touch. Make Ahead Options These Classic Garlic Bread Focaccia are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps and refrigerating it after kneading. Additionally, you can also make the garlic butter ahead of time—just store it in the fridge for up to 3 days until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, allow the dough to rise for about 3 hours at room temperature, then bake it as directed. This allows you to enjoy freshly baked focaccia with minimal last-minute effort, just as delicious and full of flavor! How to Store and Freeze Garlic Bread Focaccia Room Temperature: Store the focaccia wrapped in a kitchen towel for up to 2 days to maintain its freshness while allowing it to breathe. Fridge: If you need to keep it longer, wrap the focaccia tightly in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to a week. Freezer: For longer storage, slice the focaccia, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes for that just-baked taste, enhancing the delicious flavors of your Garlic Bread Focaccia. What to Serve with Classic Garlic Bread Focaccia There’s nothing quite like the warm, heavenly aroma of freshly baked focaccia wafting through your kitchen, hinting at a delightful meal ahead. Marinara Sauce: The classic pairing allows you to dip your focaccia into savory, tangy flavors, enhancing every bite. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the rich garlic bread. Roasted Vegetables: Their caramelized sweetness and vibrant colors beautifully complement the buttery focaccia, adding a wholesome touch. Grilled Steak: Savory meats match perfectly with the focaccia, making it an excellent choice for hearty gatherings. Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar: A simple dip elevates the focaccia, bringing forth both richness and acidity that’s utterly irresistible. Herb-Infused Goat Cheese: Spread this creamy cheese over warm slices for an elegant twist that adds depth and flavor. Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized, savory delights work wonders together, offering a variety of textures and tastes for your table. Red Wine: A glass of robust merlot or chianti rounds out the meal beautifully, enhancing the focaccia’s flavors. Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, this indulgent treat provides a luscious, warm contrast to the focaccia’s savory profile. Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing end to the meal helps cleanse the palate with its sweet, juicy flavors, keeping everything balanced. Expert Tips for Garlic Bread Focaccia Perfect Rise Time: Allow the dough to rise for the full 3 hours; rushing this step can lead to a dense focaccia instead of a fluffy garlic bread focaccia. Temperature Matters: Ensure the water is around 110°F when activating the yeast; too hot can kill it, while too cold won’t activate it effectively. Careful with Salt: Use kosher salt as recommended; substituting with table salt may lead to an overpowering flavor in your focaccia. Dimples & Drizzle: Remember to create dimples before baking; this not only adds a visual appeal but also helps to hold your delicious garlic butter. Cooling Time: Let the focaccia cool for a few minutes post-baking; slicing too soon can result in gumminess. Enjoy that perfect texture! Garlic Bread Focaccia Variations Let your creativity shine by customizing this delicious focaccia to suit your taste preferences! Herb-Infused: Add chopped fresh rosemary or thyme to the dough for an aromatic twist. The herbal notes elevate the entire bread, making each bite a fragrant delight. Cheese Lovers: Swap out Parmigiano Reggiano for crumbled goat cheese or sliced mozzarella. This change adds a creamy texture and rich flavor that complements the garlic beautifully. Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the garlic butter for a subtle heat. This adds a lovely contrast to the buttery garlic and enhances the savory profile of the focaccia. Nutty Flavor: Mix in toasted pine nuts or walnuts into the dough for added crunch and nutty depth. These textures create an exciting experience with each slice you take. Olive Oil Richness: Replace garlic butter with a robust herb-infused olive oil for drizzling post-bake. This tip gives the focaccia a lighter touch while still being rich in flavor. Sweet Touch: Experiment with a sprinkle of brown sugar on the dough before baking. It creates a unique caramelized flavor with a hint of sweetness that complements the garlic very nicely. Veggie Boost: Add thinly sliced olives or sun-dried tomatoes into the dough for a Mediterranean flair. Each bite is packed with flavor, making it a delightful snack on its own. As you explore these delightful variations, consider pairing your delicious Garlic Bread Focaccia with a fresh Caesar salad or a dipping bowl of marinara, much like with our Chicken Scampi Garlic for an unforgettable meal experience! Garlic Bread Focaccia Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right garlic for my Garlic Bread Focaccia? Absolutely! For the best flavor, select firm, plump garlic bulbs with no dark spots or signs of sprouting. Fresh garlic will give your focaccia an aromatic punch that dried or jarred garlic simply cannot match. I recommend using about 4 cloves, minced or pressed, for a robust garlic flavor. How should I store leftover Garlic Bread Focaccia? Very! For optimal freshness, wrap the focaccia in a kitchen towel and keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to store it longer, tightly wrap it in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to a week. Make sure it’s protected from moisture to avoid a soggy texture! Can I freeze Garlic Bread Focaccia, and if so, how? Absolutely! To freeze your Garlic Bread Focaccia, first slice it into individual pieces. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This keeps the pieces from sticking together and allows you to pull out just what you need. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes. What should I do if my focaccia dough doesn’t rise properly? Oh no! If your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to inactive yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh—check the expiration date! If the water used for activation was too hot or too cold, it can also hinder your yeast from doing its job. For future attempts, remember the magic temperature is around 110°F. If your dough still doesn’t rise, let it sit in a warm area, as the warmth can often do wonders. Is Garlic Bread Focaccia safe for pets or those with allergies? Very! Garlic, while delicious for us, is toxic to many pets, especially dogs and cats. Avoid sharing this treat with them. For allergies, check your ingredients—especially the flour and cheese—to ensure they meet dietary restrictions. You can also omit the cheese and butter for a dairy-free version. Always double-check with anyone with food allergies before serving! How do I get that perfect texture in my Garlic Bread Focaccia? The key to achieving the ideal texture lies in two main factors—rising and cooling. Make sure to allow your dough enough time to rise for the full 3 hours to achieve that airy, chewy center. After baking, let the focaccia cool slightly before slicing. If you cut into it too soon, it can become gummy, compromising the lovely texture you want. Enjoy the journey as it develops! Garlic Bread Focaccia That Will Steal the Show! This Garlic Bread Focaccia transforms any meal into a delightful feast with its buttery, garlicky flavors and chewy texture. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 45 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsFermentation Time 1 day dTotal Time 1 day d 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: AppetizersCuisine: ItalianCalories: 220 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Dough Ingredients1 cup warm water around 110°F2 teaspoons active dry yeast fresh yeast yields the best results1 teaspoon granulated sugar feeds the yeast3 cups all-purpose flour for chewier texture, use bread flour1 teaspoon kosher salt avoid table salt for best results1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil coating the bowlTopping Ingredientsto taste flaky sea salt for seasoning1/4 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley for garnish1/2 cup Parmigiano Reggiano cheese grated4 tablespoons salted butter for garlic butter4 cloves garlic minced or pressed Equipment Mixing BowlBaking panOvenSmall Saucepan Method Preparation StepsIn a small bowl, combine warm water, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Stir gently and let rest for about 10 minutes until foamy.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and kosher salt. Pour in the activated yeast mixture and knead for about 6 minutes until smooth and elastic.Coat a clean bowl with olive oil and place the kneaded dough inside. Cover and refrigerate for 24 hours.After 24 hours, remove the dough and stretch it into a greased baking pan. Let rise at room temperature for about 3 hours.Preheat your oven to 450°F for at least 5-10 minutes.Drizzle olive oil on top of the risen focaccia, create dimples, sprinkle with flaky sea salt, and bake for 20-25 minutes.Melt salted butter in a saucepan, add minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant. Pour the garlic butter over the baked focaccia.Garnish with chopped parsley and grated cheese before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 320mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg NotesPerfect for side dishes or appetizers. Allow the dough to rise fully for optimal texture. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days, in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
