Garlic Herb Focaccia is a delightful bread that brings a burst of flavor and warmth to any meal. Imagine biting into a soft, airy dough infused with the rich aromas of garlic and fresh herbs! This recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners, weekend brunches, or even just a simple snack with olive oil for dipping. As someone who has spent years experimenting with different bread recipes, I can confidently say that this focaccia consistently impresses both family and friends alike.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Garlic Herb Focaccia is not just another bread recipe; it’s an experience that combines simplicity with gourmet flavors. Here are a few reasons you’ll love making it:

Quick and Easy: The entire process takes less than two hours, making it a perfect option for weeknight dinners or unexpected guests.
Budget-Friendly: With basic ingredients that you likely already have on hand, this focaccia won’t break the bank.
Versatile: Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or paired with soups and salads, its uses are endless.

“I made this focaccia for a family gathering, and it disappeared within minutes! Everyone loved the garlic and herb combination.” – Emily, home cook

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Making Garlic Herb Focaccia is a straightforward process that even novice bakers can master. Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll be doing:

Activate the yeast with warm water.
Mix the ingredients to form a dough.
Knead until smooth and elastic.
Allow the dough to rise until doubled in size.
Shape the dough, apply your toppings, and bake to golden perfection.

This progression keeps things simple and organized, helping you feel accomplished in no time!

Gather Your Ingredients

To create this delicious Garlic Herb Focaccia, you’ll need the following ingredients:

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4 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp active dry yeast
1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil (divided)
2 tsp salt
4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
2 tbsp fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped

Before you start, remember that you can easily swap in different herbs or add various toppings to make this recipe your own.

Step-by-Step Directions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit until frothy for about 5 minutes.
Add the flour, salt, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until well combined.
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm area until it doubles in size, approximately 1 hour.
Once risen, gently punch down the dough and transfer it to a greased baking sheet, stretching it into a rectangle.
Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the dough and create dimples in the surface with your fingers. Top with minced garlic and herbs.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the focaccia for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.

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Tips for Serving

When it comes to serving your freshly baked Garlic Herb Focaccia, the options are endless. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:

Dipping Oils: Pair it with high-quality olive oil, balsamic vinegar, or hummus for a delicious appetizer.
Sandwich Base: Use it as a base for sandwiches, filling it with your choice of meats, cheeses, and veggies.
Soup Sidekick: Serve warm alongside your favorite soups or stews for a comforting meal.

Best Way to Store Garlic Herb Focaccia

Storing your Garlic Herb Focaccia correctly ensures it stays delicious longer. Here’s how to do it:

Room Temperature: Wrap the focaccia in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigeration: If you want to store it longer, place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just be aware that refrigeration can change the texture.
Freezing: For longer storage, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating in the oven for the best results.

Pro Chef Tips

To make your journey with this focaccia even better, keep these tips in mind:

Kneading Technique: Ensure you’re kneading well; the dough should be elastic and not overly sticky. This helps develop gluten for better texture.
Herb Freshness: Use fresh herbs whenever possible. They deliver a more robust flavor than dried ones.
Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings. Cheese, olives, or even sundried tomatoes can add exciting new dimensions.

Creative Twists

Here are some ideas to put your unique spin on the classic Garlic Herb Focaccia:

Cheesy Focaccia: Add shredded mozzarella or feta before baking for an extra cheesy delight.
Spicy Version: Incorporate red pepper flakes into the garlic mixture for a kick of heat.
Herb Variations: Try different herb combinations like basil and oregano for a fragrant twist.

Your Questions Answered

How long does this focaccia take to prepare?
The entire process takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, including the rising time.
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. There’s no need to dissolve it in water first; you can add it directly to the dry ingredients.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum for the best texture.

Garlic Herb Focaccia is not just a recipe; it’s an invite to flavors and aromas that create memories—so get baking, and savor every delicious bite!

Garlic Herb Focaccia

Total Time: 90 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A delightful bread infused with garlic and fresh herbs, perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp active dry yeast
1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil (divided)
2 tsp salt
4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
2 tbsp fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit until frothy for about 5 minutes.
Add the flour, salt, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until well combined.
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm area until it doubles in size, approximately 1 hour.
Once risen, gently punch down the dough and transfer it to a greased baking sheet, stretching it into a rectangle.
Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the dough and create dimples in the surface with your fingers. Top with minced garlic and herbs.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the focaccia for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.

Notes

For variations, try adding cheese, olives, or different herbs for added flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 250
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: focaccia, garlic bread, easy bread recipe