Description
Fluffy focaccia topped with garlic, Parmesan, and herbs. Crisp golden edges, tender inside—ideal for sharing or any meal.
Ingredients
Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1¾ cups warm water (approx. 43°C)
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- ¼ cup olive oil, plus additional for greasing and drizzling
Topping
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or thyme, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Flaky sea salt, for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Combine warm water and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle active dry yeast over the surface and let stand for 5 to 10 minutes, until foamy.
- Stir in dry ingredients: Stir in all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and olive oil until a sticky dough forms. Cover the bowl and allow the dough to rise in a warm place for 60 to 90 minutes, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare toppings and pan: While dough rises, mince the garlic, grate the Parmesan, and chop herbs if using. Grease the bottom and sides of a baking pan with olive oil.
- Shape and top the dough: Transfer the dough to the prepared pan. Gently stretch and press to fit the pan. Drizzle additional olive oil over the surface. Dimple the dough thoroughly with fingertips.
- Add toppings and bake: Sprinkle minced garlic, grated Parmesan, and herbs evenly over the dough. Add flaky sea salt if desired. Cover and allow the dough to rise for another 20 to 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 220°C. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until golden and crispy.
- Serve: Allow focaccia to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Allow dough to fully rise until doubled for optimal texture; underproofing results in dense crumb.
- Generously oil both the pan and dough surface to encourage a crisp, golden crust.
- Avoid adding excessive toppings before the second rise to prevent deflation.
- Rest bread for at least 10 minutes after baking before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- A high oven temperature produces a crisp exterior while retaining a soft, airy interior.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
