Crispy Parmesan and Herb Focaccia Recipe

Introducing Parmesan Herb Focaccia — a golden, aromatic flatbread topped with savory Parmesan and a fragrant mix of herbs. Crisp on the outside and soft and airy inside, this versatile focaccia makes a delicious snack, side, or accompaniment to soups, salads, and pasta.

Why You’ll Love Parmesan Herb Focaccia

Parmesan Herb Focaccia is easy to make, full of flavor, and wonderfully adaptable. Key reasons to try it:

1. Fast prep: About 20 minutes to prepare the dough.
2. Simple baking: Bakes in roughly 25–35 minutes until golden.
3. Gluten-free option: This version uses gluten-free bread flour but can be made with regular all-purpose or bread flour.
4. Light, bubbly texture: A hot water, honey, and yeast mixture activates the yeast for that classic airy crumb.
5. Flavorful dough: Olive oil and a splash of sparkling water add lift and subtle flavor.
6. Easy cleanup: Lining the pan with parchment keeps cleanup quick.
7. Customizable toppings: Grated Parmesan, basil, oregano, olive oil, and a sprinkle of coarse salt create an irresistible finish.

Try this focaccia for a simple but impressive homemade bread that’s perfect for sharing.

Ingredients You Need To Make Parmesan Herb Focaccia

Gather the following ingredients before you start:

• Gluten-free bread flour (or substitute with all-purpose or regular bread flour)
• Baking powder
• Kosher salt
• Instant yeast
• Hot water (about 110°F / 43°C)
• Unflavored sparkling water
• Olive oil (plus extra for greasing the pan)
• Honey
• Dried oregano

For the topping:

• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Dried basil
• Dried oregano
• Olive oil
• Fleur de Sel or another coarse sea salt

You’ll also need measuring cups and spoons, mixing bowls, a 9×13-inch metal baking dish, parchment paper, and an oven.

How To Make Parmesan Herb Focaccia

1. Prepare the yeast:
   • Combine hot water, honey, and instant yeast in a small bowl.
   • Let sit about 5 minutes until bubbly and foamy.
2. Mix dry ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free bread flour, baking powder, and kosher salt.
3. Add wet ingredients:
   • Make a well in the flour. Add olive oil, sparkling water, and the yeast mixture.
   • Stir until just combined — the dough will be sticky and slightly lumpy.
4. Prepare the pan:
   • Oil a 9×13-inch metal baking dish with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and line it with parchment paper, leaving two sides exposed for easy removal.
5. Shape and rise:
   • Place the dough in the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and a towel, then let it rise until noticeably increased in volume (about triple, depending on temperature).
6. Add the topping:
   • Once risen, drizzle olive oil over the surface. Sprinkle grated Parmesan, dried basil, dried oregano, and a pinch of Fleur de Sel or coarse sea salt.
7. Bake:
   • Bake in a preheated 425°F (220°C) oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are crisp.
8. Cool and serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let cool completely before cutting into slices. Serve warm or at room temperature.

COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I substitute dried herbs with fresh ones in the topping?

Yes — fresh herbs work wonderfully. Keep in mind fresh herbs are more delicate and may provide a brighter flavor; adjust the amount to taste.

What can I serve with Parmesan Herb Focaccia?

Serve it with soups, salads, dips, pasta, or grilled meats. It’s also fantastic on its own as a snack.

How should I store leftover focaccia?

Store cooled focaccia in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze slices and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Parmesan Herb Focaccia

Danielle Cochran

This has become a favorite thanks to its great flavor and texture.

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Prep Time 20 mins

Cook Time 35 mins

Servings 8 servings

Calories 266 kcal

Equipment

• Measuring cups/spoons
• Mixing bowls
• 9 x 13 Baking Dish
• Oven

Ingredients

• 3 ¾ cup gluten free bread flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 2 tsp kosher salt
• 2 tsp instant yeast
• 1 cup hot water 110 degrees
• 1 cup unflavored sparkling water
• 3 tbsp olive oil + 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp honey
• 1 tsp oregano

Topping

• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tsp basil
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 1.2 teaspoons Fleur De Sal

Instructions

• Add hot water, honey, and yeast to a small bowl and mix. Set aside for 5 minutes until bubbly.
• In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
• Make a well in the dry ingredients and add 3 tablespoons olive oil, sparkling water, and the yeast mixture. Mix until the dough is sticky and combined.
• Oil a 9×13 metal baking dish with 2 tablespoons olive oil and line with parchment paper, allowing it to come up on two sides for easy removal.
• Place the dough in the pan, spread it out, cover with plastic wrap and a towel, and let rise until it has increased substantially in size.

Topping:

• Drizzle olive oil over the risen dough, sprinkle the herbs, salt, and Parmesan evenly.
• Bake at 425°F for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
• Remove from the oven and cool completely before slicing. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1 sliceCalories: 266 kcalCarbohydrates: 48 gProtein: 6 gFat: 6 gSodium: 736 mg

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Parmesan Herb Focaccia delivers a satisfying combination of crusty exterior, tender interior, and bright herb-and-cheese topping. It’s straightforward to prepare and adaptable to different flours and toppings, making it a great go-to recipe for home bakers.

Enjoy this bread warm alongside salads, soups, or your favorite mains. Gather your ingredients and give this flavorful focaccia a try — it’s simple to make and delicious to share.

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