Rosemary Garlic Focaccia Bread

A fragrant, soft Italian flatbread infused with fresh rosemary and roasted garlic, perfect as an appetizer, side, or sandwich base.

This focaccia has become a family favorite especially as a sandwich base and for dipping with olive oil and balsamic vinegar

Ingredients

• Dough: 4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour 1 ½ cups (360 ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C) 2 ¼ tsp (7 g) active dry yeast (1 packet) 2 tsp sugar 1 ½ tsp fine sea salt ¼ cup (60 ml) extra-virgin olive oil plus more for greasing
• Topping: 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 3 cloves garlic finely minced 2 tbsp fresh rosemary chopped 1 tsp flaky sea salt

Instructions

Step 1:

In a small bowl combine warm water sugar and yeast Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy

Step 2:

In a large bowl mix flour and salt Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil Stir until a sticky dough forms

Step 3:

Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 7–8 minutes until smooth and elastic (or use a stand mixer with dough hook for 5 minutes)

Step 4:

Place dough in a greased bowl cover with a damp towel and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size

Step 5:

Punch down the dough then transfer to a greased 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking pan Stretch and press the dough to fit the pan

Step 6:

Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes Meanwhile preheat oven to 425°F (220°C)

Step 7:

Using your fingertips dimple the dough all over Drizzle with 3 tbsp olive oil sprinkle with minced garlic chopped rosemary and flaky sea salt

Step 8:

Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown

Step 9:

Let cool slightly before slicing and serving

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Baking this focaccia always brings the whole family into the kitchen eager to enjoy freshly sliced bread

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping or use as a base for sandwiches

Storage Tips

Store in an airtight container at room temperature up to 3 days or freeze slices for longer storage

Variations

You can substitute rosemary with thyme or oregano and add toppings like olives or sun-dried tomatoes

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Enjoy the fragrant soft focaccia fresh from the oven or toasted for a delicious treat

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How do I get a soft focaccia texture?

Use warm water to activate the yeast and knead the dough thoroughly until elastic. Allow it to rise twice for a light, airy crumb.

→ Can I substitute rosemary with other herbs?

Yes, thyme or oregano can be great alternatives to rosemary, providing different but complementary flavor profiles.

→ What is the best way to add garlic flavor?

Minced fresh garlic sprinkled on top before baking releases its aroma and infuses the bread without overpowering it.

→ How long should the dough rise?

First rise lasts about 1 hour until doubled in size; second rise is 30 minutes after shaping for optimal texture.

→ What temperature is best for baking focaccia?

Bake at 425°F (220°C) for around 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and crisp.