Garlic Herb Focaccia Bread Simple and Flavorful Recipe

October 1, 2025 by Madison

If you love warm, flavorful bread, you’re in for a treat! This Garlic Herb Focaccia Bread is both simple to make and bursting with taste. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can create a delicious loaf that impresses everyone at your table. Join me as I share my easy recipe, perfect tips, and fun variations to make this classic Italian bread your new favorite! Let’s get started!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 4 cups all-purpose flour

– 2 teaspoons instant yeast

– 2 teaspoons coarse sea salt

– 1 teaspoon sugar

Additional Ingredients

– 1 ¾ cups warm water (110°F or 43°C)

– ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling)

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

Fresh Herbs

– 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped

– 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped

– Flaky sea salt for topping

– Freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Gather these ingredients before you start. The flour is the base of your dough. Instant yeast helps it rise. Coarse sea salt adds flavor, and sugar gives the yeast food.

Warm water activates the yeast. The olive oil keeps the bread moist. Minced garlic will fill your focaccia with a strong flavor.

Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme bring a lovely aroma. Flaky sea salt and black pepper on top add a nice touch. This simple mix makes your focaccia taste amazing!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mixing the Dough

First, grab a large bowl. In it, add 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of instant yeast, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 2 teaspoons of coarse sea salt. Use a whisk to mix these dry ingredients well. This step is key for your focaccia’s rise.

Next, slowly pour in 1 ¾ cups of warm water and ¼ cup of olive oil. Mix with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms. Don’t worry if it feels wet; it will come together.

Kneading and Rising

Now, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 5-7 minutes. You want it to be smooth and elastic. This process helps develop the gluten, which gives the bread its structure.

Once you achieve the right texture, place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth and set it in a warm spot. Let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. This is where the magic happens!

Preparing the Focaccia

After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a greased sheet pan. Use your fingers to stretch it out into a rectangular shape, about ½ inch thick. This is the base for your focaccia.

In a small bowl, mix together 4 cloves of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of chopped rosemary, and 2 tablespoons of chopped thyme. Drizzle in a bit of olive oil to combine.

Now, use your fingers to create dimples all over the dough. This step is important as it holds the herb mixture. Spread the garlic herb mixture evenly over the focaccia, getting into the dimples.

Final Baking Step

Cover the focaccia with a cloth again and let it rise for another 30 minutes. This second rise will make your bread fluffy.

While the dough rises, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). When the focaccia has risen, sprinkle flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper on top.

Bake it in the oven for 20-25 minutes. It is done when it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. This step makes your focaccia crispy on the outside and soft inside.

Remove it from the oven and drizzle with a little more olive oil while it is still warm. Enjoy the delightful aroma and prepare for a tasty treat!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Dough

To make great focaccia, you need the right dough. When you knead, aim for a smooth and soft texture. This should take about 5-7 minutes. If the dough sticks too much, sprinkle a little flour on your hands. Once you have a nice dough, let it rise. Find a warm spot, cover it with a cloth, and wait for about an hour. The dough should double in size. This step is key for fluffy bread.

Flavor Enhancements

Want to boost the flavor? Add more herbs! You can mix in fresh basil or oregano for a twist. If you like spicy, try red pepper flakes. For toppings, think outside the box. You can add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even cheese. Each option brings a new taste to your focaccia.

Baking Tips

For the best results, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps create a crispy crust. Bake for about 20-25 minutes. To check if it’s done, tap the bottom. If it sounds hollow, it’s ready. Remember to let it cool slightly before slicing. This keeps the inside soft and warm.

Variations

Herb Variations

You can change the herbs in the recipe. Feel free to swap rosemary and thyme for basil or oregano. Each herb brings its own taste. Basil adds a sweet note, while oregano offers a warm flavor. You can also mix herbs for a unique twist. For a milder taste, try using parsley or chives. Want something bold? Add a bit of sage or dill. You can even infuse flavors by adding lemon zest or red pepper flakes to the mix.

Additional Toppings

If you want a cheesy focaccia, sprinkle mozzarella or parmesan on top before baking. Cheese melts beautifully and adds richness. For veggie lovers, add sliced tomatoes, olives, or bell peppers. These toppings not only boost flavor but also add nutrition. You can even try caramelized onions for a sweet touch. Just make sure to adjust baking time as needed to allow toppings to cook well.

Gluten-Free Alternative

To make gluten-free focaccia, you can swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Brands like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur Flour offer great options. You will need to add xanthan gum to help with texture. Use about 1 teaspoon per cup of gluten-free flour. Knead the dough gently, as gluten-free dough can be more delicate. Let it rise longer, about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. Enjoy the same delicious focaccia without the gluten!

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your focaccia fresh, cool it completely first. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This helps prevent air from getting in. You can also use an airtight container. Choose a container that fits the focaccia snugly. This way, the bread stays soft and moist longer.

Reheating Instructions

When you want to enjoy your focaccia again, there are easy ways to reheat it. The oven works best for restoring its crisp texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the focaccia directly on the rack for about 5-10 minutes. If you prefer, you can wrap it in foil. This keeps it moist while it warms.

To prevent dryness, avoid using a microwave. Microwaving can make bread tough and chewy. Instead, stick with the oven for the best results.

Freezing Focaccia

If you have extra focaccia, freezing is a great option. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze focaccia for up to three months.

When you are ready to eat it, thaw the focaccia in the fridge overnight. For a quicker method, you can leave it at room temperature for a few hours. After thawing, follow the reheating instructions to enjoy it warm and fresh.

FAQs

Common Questions

How long does the focaccia take to rise?

The focaccia dough takes about one hour to rise. It should double in size. After you shape it, let it rise again for 30 minutes. This gives it a light and airy texture.

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour. It will make a softer focaccia. Bread flour has more gluten, which gives a chewier texture.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

You can easily make this recipe vegan. Just use plant-based oil and skip any dairy. This focaccia tastes great without any animal products.

Substitutions and Modifications

What can I substitute for fresh herbs?

If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs. Use one-third of the amount since dried herbs are stronger. For example, use 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary instead of 1 tablespoon fresh.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, dried herbs work well in this recipe. They have a more concentrated flavor. Just remember to adjust the amount to keep the taste balanced.

Buying Focaccia

Where to buy pre-made garlic herb focaccia bread?

You can find pre-made focaccia at many grocery stores. Check the bakery section. Some specialty stores also offer fresh focaccia with garlic and herbs.

What should I look for in store-bought options?

Look for focaccia that is soft and fluffy. It should have a nice golden color. Check for visible herbs and garlic on top for the best flavor.

In this post, we explored making delicious focaccia from scratch. We went over key ingredients like flour, yeast, and fresh herbs. You learned step-by-step how to mix, knead, and bake the dough. We also discussed tips for perfecting your focaccia and creative variations to try.

Baking focaccia can be fun and rewarding. I encourage you to use fresh herbs and toppings to make it special. Enjoy your baking journey!

$- 4 cups all-purpose flour - 2 teaspoons instant yeast - 2 teaspoons coarse sea salt - 1 teaspoon sugar - 1 ¾ cups warm water (110°F or 43°C) - ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling) - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped - 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped - Flaky sea salt for topping - Freshly cracked black pepper to taste Gather these ingredients before you start. The flour is the base of your dough. Instant yeast helps it rise. Coarse sea salt adds flavor, and sugar gives the yeast food. Warm water activates the yeast. The olive oil keeps the bread moist. Minced garlic will fill your focaccia with a strong flavor. Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme bring a lovely aroma. Flaky sea salt and black pepper on top add a nice touch. This simple mix makes your focaccia taste amazing! First, grab a large bowl. In it, add 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of instant yeast, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 2 teaspoons of coarse sea salt. Use a whisk to mix these dry ingredients well. This step is key for your focaccia’s rise. Next, slowly pour in 1 ¾ cups of warm water and ¼ cup of olive oil. Mix with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms. Don’t worry if it feels wet; it will come together. Now, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 5-7 minutes. You want it to be smooth and elastic. This process helps develop the gluten, which gives the bread its structure. Once you achieve the right texture, place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth and set it in a warm spot. Let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. This is where the magic happens! After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a greased sheet pan. Use your fingers to stretch it out into a rectangular shape, about ½ inch thick. This is the base for your focaccia. In a small bowl, mix together 4 cloves of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of chopped rosemary, and 2 tablespoons of chopped thyme. Drizzle in a bit of olive oil to combine. Now, use your fingers to create dimples all over the dough. This step is important as it holds the herb mixture. Spread the garlic herb mixture evenly over the focaccia, getting into the dimples. Cover the focaccia with a cloth again and let it rise for another 30 minutes. This second rise will make your bread fluffy. While the dough rises, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). When the focaccia has risen, sprinkle flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper on top. Bake it in the oven for 20-25 minutes. It is done when it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. This step makes your focaccia crispy on the outside and soft inside. Remove it from the oven and drizzle with a little more olive oil while it is still warm. Enjoy the delightful aroma and prepare for a tasty treat! To make great focaccia, you need the right dough. When you knead, aim for a smooth and soft texture. This should take about 5-7 minutes. If the dough sticks too much, sprinkle a little flour on your hands. Once you have a nice dough, let it rise. Find a warm spot, cover it with a cloth, and wait for about an hour. The dough should double in size. This step is key for fluffy bread. Want to boost the flavor? Add more herbs! You can mix in fresh basil or oregano for a twist. If you like spicy, try red pepper flakes. For toppings, think outside the box. You can add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even cheese. Each option brings a new taste to your focaccia. For the best results, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps create a crispy crust. Bake for about 20-25 minutes. To check if it’s done, tap the bottom. If it sounds hollow, it's ready. Remember to let it cool slightly before slicing. This keeps the inside soft and warm. {{image_2}} You can change the herbs in the recipe. Feel free to swap rosemary and thyme for basil or oregano. Each herb brings its own taste. Basil adds a sweet note, while oregano offers a warm flavor. You can also mix herbs for a unique twist. For a milder taste, try using parsley or chives. Want something bold? Add a bit of sage or dill. You can even infuse flavors by adding lemon zest or red pepper flakes to the mix. If you want a cheesy focaccia, sprinkle mozzarella or parmesan on top before baking. Cheese melts beautifully and adds richness. For veggie lovers, add sliced tomatoes, olives, or bell peppers. These toppings not only boost flavor but also add nutrition. You can even try caramelized onions for a sweet touch. Just make sure to adjust baking time as needed to allow toppings to cook well. To make gluten-free focaccia, you can swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Brands like Bob's Red Mill or King Arthur Flour offer great options. You will need to add xanthan gum to help with texture. Use about 1 teaspoon per cup of gluten-free flour. Knead the dough gently, as gluten-free dough can be more delicate. Let it rise longer, about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. Enjoy the same delicious focaccia without the gluten! To keep your focaccia fresh, cool it completely first. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This helps prevent air from getting in. You can also use an airtight container. Choose a container that fits the focaccia snugly. This way, the bread stays soft and moist longer. When you want to enjoy your focaccia again, there are easy ways to reheat it. The oven works best for restoring its crisp texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the focaccia directly on the rack for about 5-10 minutes. If you prefer, you can wrap it in foil. This keeps it moist while it warms. To prevent dryness, avoid using a microwave. Microwaving can make bread tough and chewy. Instead, stick with the oven for the best results. If you have extra focaccia, freezing is a great option. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze focaccia for up to three months. When you are ready to eat it, thaw the focaccia in the fridge overnight. For a quicker method, you can leave it at room temperature for a few hours. After thawing, follow the reheating instructions to enjoy it warm and fresh. How long does the focaccia take to rise? The focaccia dough takes about one hour to rise. It should double in size. After you shape it, let it rise again for 30 minutes. This gives it a light and airy texture. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour? Yes, you can use all-purpose flour. It will make a softer focaccia. Bread flour has more gluten, which gives a chewier texture. Is it possible to make this recipe vegan? You can easily make this recipe vegan. Just use plant-based oil and skip any dairy. This focaccia tastes great without any animal products. What can I substitute for fresh herbs? If you don't have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs. Use one-third of the amount since dried herbs are stronger. For example, use 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary instead of 1 tablespoon fresh. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh? Yes, dried herbs work well in this recipe. They have a more concentrated flavor. Just remember to adjust the amount to keep the taste balanced. Where to buy pre-made garlic herb focaccia bread? You can find pre-made focaccia at many grocery stores. Check the bakery section. Some specialty stores also offer fresh focaccia with garlic and herbs. What should I look for in store-bought options? Look for focaccia that is soft and fluffy. It should have a nice golden color. Check for visible herbs and garlic on top for the best flavor. In this post, we explored making delicious focaccia from scratch. We went over key ingredients like flour, yeast, and fresh herbs. You learned step-by-step how to mix, knead, and bake the dough. We also discussed tips for perfecting your focaccia and creative variations to try. Baking focaccia can be fun and rewarding. I encourage you to use fresh herbs and toppings to make it special. Enjoy your baking journey!$