Garlic Bread Focaccia

Let me introduce you to your new carb obsession: Garlic Bread Focaccia. It’s like the love child of two of the best things ever—rich, buttery garlic bread and fluffy, olive oil-soaked focaccia. The result? Golden, pillowy bread with crispy edges, deep garlic flavor, and those iconic focaccia dimples just begging to be dipped in marinara, smeared with cheese, or devoured all on its own.

Seriously, this is the kind of bread that steals the show. Whether you’re pairing it with pasta, serving it as a party appetizer, or enjoying it warm from the oven with a swipe of butter—it’s always the right choice. And the best part? It’s way easier to make than you think. So roll up those sleeves, friend… your kitchen is about to smell amazing.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Bread Focaccia

The Best of Both Worlds
Think buttery, garlicky goodness meets the chewy, airy texture of traditional focaccia. It’s rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.

Easy Homemade Bread Vibes
Don’t be intimidated! This recipe is beginner-friendly and doesn’t require any fancy equipment. If you’ve got a mixing bowl and an oven, you’re good to go.

Perfect for Sharing
Whether it’s a dinner party, game night, or cozy family meal, this focaccia is always a hit. Slice it into squares or tear it apart with your hands—it’s all part of the fun.

Customizable
Add cheese, herbs, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes to make it your own. It’s the kind of bread that plays well with flavors.

Irresistibly Aromatic
That smell of roasted garlic and fresh bread baking? Chef’s kiss. It’ll draw everyone into the kitchen.

Ingredients in Garlic Bread Focaccia

This recipe uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen—but trust me, the flavor payoff is next level.

All-Purpose Flour
The foundation for our focaccia. It gives structure and that fluffy, chewy bite.

Warm Water
Activates the yeast and helps bring the dough together. Just warm—not hot!

Active Dry Yeast
Gives the bread its airy, bubbly rise. Proofing it ensures the perfect texture.

Olive Oil
Focaccia’s best friend. It adds flavor, keeps the dough moist, and helps crisp up the bottom and top.

Salt
A must for seasoning the dough and enhancing the garlic flavor.

Sugar
Just a touch to help activate the yeast and balance the savory garlic.

Garlic Cloves
Fresh is best here. We’ll roast or sauté it in butter and oil for max flavor.

Butter
For that classic garlic bread richness. When mixed with garlic and brushed over the focaccia, it’s pure magic.

Fresh Herbs (Optional)
Think rosemary, thyme, or parsley. Adds color and a lovely aromatic lift.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s break it down so you can create the fluffiest, most flavorful garlic bread focaccia right in your kitchen.

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5–10 minutes, until it’s foamy on top (this means your yeast is alive and ready to work!).

Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a sticky dough forms. Drizzle in olive oil and mix until combined. The dough should be soft and slightly tacky.

First Rise

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Prep the Pan

Generously oil a baking dish or sheet pan with olive oil. Transfer the dough to the pan and gently stretch it to fit. Let it rest again for about 30 minutes, uncovered, while you make the garlic butter.

Make Garlic Butter

In a small saucepan, melt butter with olive oil over low heat. Add finely minced garlic and cook until fragrant—about 1–2 minutes. Don’t let it brown. Add chopped herbs if using, then remove from heat.

Dimple & Top

Once the dough has rested, use your fingertips to press deep dimples all over the surface. Drizzle with the garlic butter mixture, making sure to get some into each dimple. Sprinkle with flaky salt or more herbs if you like.

Bake

Bake in a preheated 425°F (220°C) oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp.

Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes, then slice or tear and serve warm. Prepare for silence at the table—everyone will be too busy enjoying it.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12 slices
Calories per serving: 210
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 260mg
Total Carbohydrates: 27g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 4g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: About 2 hours 10 minutes

How to Serve Garlic Bread Focaccia

This focaccia is endlessly versatile. Here are some ways to enjoy it:

• With Pasta: Serve it alongside spaghetti, lasagna, or a saucy Alfredo dish.
• Appetizer Board: Cut into squares and serve with dips like marinara, pesto, or whipped feta.
• Soup Sidekick: Dunk it into tomato soup, minestrone, or creamy chowder.
• Sandwich Base: Slice it horizontally and stuff it with deli meats, cheese, and veggies.
• Snack Attack: Warm it up and enjoy it solo with a drizzle of olive oil or more garlic butter.

Additional Tips

• Proofing Shortcut: Let the dough rise in a slightly warm oven (just turned off) to speed things up on a cold day.
• Crispier Bottom: Use a metal baking sheet for a crispier crust—don’t be shy with the olive oil!
• Extra Garlicky?: Rub a fresh clove of garlic over the crust after baking for an even bolder kick.
• Freeze for Later: Bake, cool, and freeze slices. Reheat in the oven for a fresh-baked taste.

FAQ

Q1: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A1: Yes! After the first rise, cover and refrigerate the dough overnight. Let it come to room temp before stretching and baking.

Q2: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry?
A2: Absolutely—just skip the proofing step and mix it directly into the flour.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store in an airtight container at room temp for 1–2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven for best results.

Q4: Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
A4: You can, but fresh garlic really brings the flavor. If using powder, add it to the butter mixture and taste as you go.

Q5: Can I add cheese on top?
A5: Yes! Shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, or even fontina melt beautifully into the top layer.

Q6: What herbs go best with this?
A6: Rosemary, thyme, oregano, and parsley are all great choices. Fresh or dried works!

Q7: Why is my focaccia dense?
A7: It might not have risen long enough or your yeast may be inactive. Make sure it gets a good rise and your yeast is fresh.

Q8: Can I use whole wheat flour?
A8: You can substitute up to 50% with whole wheat flour, but it may result in a slightly denser bread.

Q9: How do I get that beautiful golden top?
A9: Generous olive oil and a hot oven are key. You can also brush a little more garlic butter on top halfway through baking.

Q10: Can I make mini versions for a party?
A10: Yes! Divide the dough into smaller sections and bake in muffin tins or mini sheet pans for individual servings.

Conclusion

Garlic Bread Focaccia is one of those recipes that feels like a hug in food form. It’s cozy, crave-worthy, and honestly… addictive in the best way. Whether you’re serving it up for friends, family, or just yourself (we see you), it’s guaranteed to earn you a chorus of “wow” with every bite. So go ahead—make it once, and you’ll be making it forever.

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