Garlic Rosemary Focaccia Bread

This Garlic Rosemary Focaccia Bread is a fragrant, golden-brown masterpiece that’s crispy on the outside, pillowy-soft on the inside, and bursting with the flavors of garlic, rosemary, and olive oil. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a base for sandwiches, this Italian classic is surprisingly easy to make at home. With its rustic charm and aromatic herbs, this focaccia will transport you straight to the Mediterranean. Let’s get baking!

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Dough:

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour , plus extra for dusting
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
• 1/4 cup olive oil , plus extra for drizzling
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Topping:

• 3–4 tablespoons olive oil
• 2–3 sprigs fresh rosemary , leaves stripped and roughly chopped
• 4–5 cloves garlic , thinly sliced or minced
• Coarse sea salt , for sprinkling

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes , until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add the flour, olive oil, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes , until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5–7 minutes .

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

1. Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning it to coat lightly with oil. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
2. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1–1.5 hours , or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape the Focaccia

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) . Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper and drizzle generously with olive oil.
2. Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to the prepared pan. Use your fingers to press and stretch the dough evenly across the pan, creating dimples by pressing your fingertips into the dough.

Step 4: Add the Toppings

1. Drizzle 3–4 tablespoons of olive oil over the top of the dough, letting it pool in the dimples.
2. Sprinkle the chopped rosemary, sliced garlic, and coarse sea salt evenly over the dough. Press the toppings gently into the dough to adhere.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

1. Bake the focaccia in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes , or until golden brown and crisp on top.
2. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Slice the focaccia into squares or rectangles and serve warm.
2. Pair with soups, salads, pasta dishes, or enjoy it plain as a snack. It’s also perfect for making sandwiches or bruschetta!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Aromatic and Flavorful: The combination of garlic, rosemary, and olive oil creates an irresistible aroma and taste.
• Versatile: Serve it as a side, appetizer, or base for endless culinary creations.
• Easy to Make: No fancy techniques required—just simple ingredients and time for rising.

Tips for Success:

1. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary makes a big difference in flavor compared to dried.
2. Don’t Skip the Dimples: Pressing dimples into the dough helps hold the olive oil and toppings in place.
3. Adjust Garlic to Taste: Add more or less garlic depending on your preference for bold flavor.

Ways to Enjoy Your Garlic Rosemary Focaccia:

• As a Side Dish: Serve alongside soups, stews, or roasted meats for a hearty meal.
• For Bruschetta: Top slices with tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze for an elegant appetizer.
• Sandwich Base: Use it as bread for paninis, burgers, or gourmet sandwiches.
• Snack Time: Enjoy it plain or dipped in olive oil, balsamic vinegar, or marinara sauce.

This Garlic Rosemary Focaccia Bread is a true celebration of simple, high-quality ingredients. With its golden crust, soft interior, and fragrant toppings, it’s a bread that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party, enjoying it as a snack, or using it to elevate your meals, this focaccia is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So grab your olive oil, sprinkle that rosemary, and get ready to enjoy a loaf of pure homemade goodness! 🍞