If you’ve ever dreamt of biting into a bread that’s crispy on the outside, fluffy and airy on the inside, and bursting with the aromatic charm of garlic and fresh herbs, this Garlic Herb Focaccia Recipe is exactly what you need. This Italian classic elevates simple ingredients into an irresistible loaf that’s drenched in olive oil and sprinkled with fragrant herbs and garlic, making it perfect for any occasion — whether you’re serving it with dinner or enjoying it as an all-star snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient plays a vital role in making this Garlic Herb Focaccia Recipe truly shine. From the simple flour that forms the soft base to the fresh rosemary that infuses it with that unmistakable aroma, these ingredients are straightforward yet essential for flavor, texture, and that perfect golden crust.
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and chewy texture characteristic of focaccia.
- 2¼ tsp yeast: The magic behind the airy rise that gives focaccia its lightness.
- 1½ cups warm water: Activates the yeast and hydrates the dough for the perfect consistency.
- ¼ cup olive oil: Adds tenderness and rich flavor, creating that moist crumb and golden crust.
- 1½ tsp salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the dough’s sweetness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the bread with its signature fragrant kick.
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary or mixed herbs: Brings fresh, earthy notes that complement the garlic beautifully.
- Flaky salt for topping: Adds a subtle crunch and bursts of salty flavor on each bite.
How to Make Garlic Herb Focaccia Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by combining the flour, yeast, salt, and warm water in a bowl, mixing gently until you end up with a slightly sticky dough. This initial blend is key because the moisture level sets the stage for that beautiful airy texture you want in your focaccia.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Lightly knead the dough or use a stretch-and-fold technique for about 5 minutes. This step helps develop the gluten, making the bread elastic yet soft, which is essential for that delightful chewiness.
Step 3: Let It Rise
Cover your dough and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 2 hours until it doubles in size. This patient rise transforms the dough into a fluffy, cloud-like base perfect for focaccia.
Step 4: Shape and Dimple
Once risen, press the dough into a well-oiled pan, gently spreading it out to the edges. Use your fingers to create deep dimples across the surface — these pockets will hold the olive oil and flavors, giving focaccia its signature look and taste.
Step 5: Add Olive Oil, Garlic, and Herbs
Drizzle a generous amount of olive oil over the dough, then sprinkle the minced garlic and fresh herbs all over. Finish with a sprinkle of flaky salt for that final irresistible touch.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until the focaccia turns golden brown and crispy on the edges. The aroma wafting from your oven at this stage is positively unbeatable.
How to Serve Garlic Herb Focaccia Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like a light drizzle of infused olive oil or a sprinkle of extra fresh herbs right before serving can take this focaccia from delicious to downright decadent. Imagine just-picked rosemary or thyme scattered on top, paired with a touch of flaky sea salt for a perfect finishing bite.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Herb Focaccia Recipe pairs wonderfully with just about anything. Serve it alongside a fresh salad, alongside soups and stews for soaking up every last morsel, or as a delightful appetizer with some olives, cheese, and cured meats. Its versatility will surprise and delight your taste buds every time.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your focaccia into finger food by cutting it into small squares for parties, or slice it horizontally to create delicious sandwiches filled with roasted vegetables or fresh mozzarella. You could also brush leftover focaccia with garlic butter and toast it for a savory snack that’s hard to resist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any focaccia left (which might be rare!), store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps it soft and fresh for up to 2 days — perfect for quick snacks or toasts.
Freezing
This Garlic Herb Focaccia Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled focaccia tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When hunger strikes, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To revive your focaccia’s crisp crust and fluffy interior, warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will elevate any leftovers back to near-fresh glory, making every bite just as satisfying as the first.
FAQs
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh in this Garlic Herb Focaccia Recipe?
Absolutely! Dried herbs work fine, though fresh herbs do provide a brighter, more vibrant flavor. If you use dried, sprinkle them on before baking so they can release their aroma during cooking.
Is this focaccia recipe vegan?
Yes! This Garlic Herb Focaccia Recipe contains no animal products, making it a perfect vegan option loaded with olive oil and fresh herbs for flavor.
What type of yeast is best for this recipe?
Active dry yeast or instant yeast both work well. If you’re using active dry yeast, make sure to bloom it in warm water before mixing; instant yeast can be mixed directly with the flour.
Can I add other toppings besides garlic and herbs?
Definitely! This focaccia is a fantastic base for experimentation. Try topping it with caramelized onions, olives, cherry tomatoes, or even some shredded cheese for a different twist.
How do I know when the focaccia is fully baked?
Look for a deep golden crust with crispy edges. The bread should sound hollow when tapped and feel light and springy to the touch, indicating it’s perfectly baked.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about making focaccia at home, especially this Garlic Herb Focaccia Recipe that fills your kitchen with cozy, mouthwatering scents. With its crisp crust, tender crumb, and that perfect garlicky-herb kick, it’s a loaf you’ll want to bake again and again. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy every joyful moment of creating this irresistible bread!
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Garlic Herb Focaccia Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes (including rising time)
- Yield: 1 pan (approximately 8 servings)
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A fluffy, olive-oil rich Italian flatbread topped with garlic and herbs, featuring a crisp crust and airy interior. This garlic herb focaccia combines fragrant garlic, fresh rosemary, and a sprinkle of flaky salt to create a deliciously savory bread perfect as a side or snack.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2¼ tsp yeast (active dry or instant)
- 1½ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1½ cups warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- ¼ cup olive oil (plus more for drizzling and pan)
Toppings
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary or mixed herbs, chopped
- Flaky salt for sprinkling on top
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Slowly add the warm water and olive oil while mixing until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Lightly knead or use the stretch-and-fold method for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic but still slightly sticky.
- First Rise: Cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough: Drizzle olive oil generously on a baking pan. Press the risen dough into the pan, spreading it evenly. Use your fingertips to create dimples all over the surface.
- Add Toppings: Drizzle additional olive oil over the dough. Evenly distribute the minced garlic and fresh herbs on top. Sprinkle with flaky salt to finish.
- Bake the Focaccia: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the focaccia on the center rack for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crisp.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to rest for 10 minutes before slicing into squares. This helps the crumb set and makes cutting easier.
Notes
- Using more olive oil will result in a softer crumb inside the focaccia.
- Let the focaccia rest for about 10 minutes after baking before cutting to ensure even texture.
- Fresh herbs can be replaced or combined with thyme, oregano, or basil for varied flavor profiles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
