Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home, and this Crispy and Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is about to become your new favorite! With its golden-brown crust, soft and fluffy interior, and a delightful burst of garlic and Parmesan flavor, each bite is a comforting embrace. Whether you’re serving it alongside a warm bowl of soup or enjoying it on its own, this focaccia is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 2 cups warm water (110°F)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- Sea salt, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy and aromatic.
- Add the flour, olive oil, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until everything is combined and a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic, embodying the perfect texture.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot until it has doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), filling the kitchen with delightful anticipation.
- After the dough has risen, gently punch it down and transfer it to a greased baking sheet or a large cast-iron skillet.
- Press the dough to fit the shape of the pan, creating dimples all over the surface with your fingers for that classic focaccia look.
- In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the dimply dough.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle a touch of sea salt on top for that extra flavor kick.
- Let the dough rise again for 20-30 minutes, allowing it to puff up even more.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the focaccia is golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before slicing into delicious squares for serving.
Notes or Tips
For an extra flavor boost, try adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives before the final rise. This focaccia can be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days, but it never lasts that long once it’s fresh out of the oven!
Cooking Techniques
Kneading is key to developing the gluten structure in the dough, which gives your focaccia that delightful chewiness. Make sure to create those dimples with your fingers, as they not only look charming but also help to trap the garlic and oil for richer flavor.
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes! Whole wheat flour can be used for a heartier version, though you may need to adjust the water as it tends to absorb more moisture.
How can I tell if the yeast is active?
If the mixture bubbles and becomes frothy after a few minutes, your yeast is active. This is crucial for the dough to rise!
Conclusion
Your Crispy and Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is not just a side dish; it’s a comforting treat that brings warmth to any table. With its golden exterior and soft, flavorful interior, this bread is perfect for sharing and savoring. Enjoy the smiles and satisfaction it brings as you take a moment to appreciate the simple joys of home-baked goodness!