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garlic focaccia bread copycat recipe

Garlic Focaccia Bread Recipe

Linda Cain
Garlic focaccia bread is a versatile and flavorful treat that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. A classic pairing is olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
Prep Time 1 day 4 hours
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 day 5 hours 30 minutes
Course Bread
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8
Calories 228 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 50 g freshly grated parmesan
  • 2 whole garlic bulbs
  • 30 g fresh chives finely chopped
  • 100 g unsalted butter softened
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • Focaccia
  • 680 g warm water 34°C / 100°F – 95% hydration
  • 700 g strong white bread flour
  • 12 g fine sea salt
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 7 g active dry yeast
  • 60 g extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 tbsp homemade garlic butter
  • 1 tsp fresh rosemary

Instructions
 

  • First, let’s roast the garlic. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off the garlic bulbs to expose the cloves. Drizzle some olive oil on them and wrap them in aluminum foil. Roast them for about 30-35 minutes until soft and caramelized.
  • Once they cool, squeeze those beautiful cloves into a bowl. Mix in softened butter, chives, lemon zest, parmesan, salt, and pepper. Set this heavenly mixture aside.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, honey, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This process is crucial as it activates the yeast, contributing to the texture of your focaccia.
  • In a large mixing bowl, blend the strong white bread flour and fine sea salt. Once the yeast mixture is ready, pour it into the flour alongside the olive oil. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
  • This dough isn’t going to be smooth at first, but that's okay. We want that stickiness; it means it's hydrating properly.
  • Dust a clean surface with flour and turn the dough out. Knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If it’s sticking too much, sprinkle just a bit of flour, but keep it hydrated.
  • Transfer the dough into a greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
  • After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Grease a baking tray or line it with parchment paper. Place the dough into the tray and stretch it to fill it, creating dimples with your fingers.
  • Cover the shaped focaccia with a towel again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes. This part enhances its fluffiness!
  • While the dough is resting, preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Once rested, drizzle your homemade garlic butter generously over the dough, making sure it seeps into every dimple. Sprinkle fresh rosemary and some extra sea salt for flavor.
  • Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Your kitchen will smell heavenly.
  • Remove the focaccia from the o

Notes

  • Use High-Quality Ingredients: Don't skimp on the olive oil and flour. Quality products make a big difference.
  • Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or different herbs to personalize your focaccia.
  • Maintain Hydration: A well-hydrated dough leads to a light texture. Don’t hesitate to use the right water ratio.
  • Ensure Yeast is Fresh: Old yeast can kill your dough. Check the expiration date!
  • Let it Rest: Patience pays off. Allow the dough ample time to rise for the best texture.

Nutrition

Calories: 228kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 5gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 8.7gCholesterol: 33mgSodium: 781mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2g
Keyword garlic focaccia bread recipe
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