Roasted Garlic and Herb Focaccia

Name: Roasted Garlic and Herb Focaccia
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast; 1 1/2 cups warm water; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 tablespoon sugar; 2 teaspoons salt; 5 cloves roasted garlic, mashed; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; Coarse sea salt for topping

Highlighted under: Basic Recipes

I absolutely love making Roasted Garlic and Herb Focaccia, especially when entertaining friends or family. The process of kneading the dough and infusing it with roasted garlic creates an aroma that fills the kitchen with warmth and anticipation. Each bite of this fluffy bread is elevated by the herbs, making it perfect for a side dish or a standalone snack. It’s surprisingly simple to make at home, and I find the result to be incredibly rewarding, especially when it's fresh out of the oven.

Created by

The Chefsimonsfood Team

Last updated on 2026-03-16T10:58:53.757Z

Whenever I bake Roasted Garlic and Herb Focaccia, I feel a sense of accomplishment. The moment I pull that golden loaf from the oven, I remember the first time I touched dough, feeling its elasticity and warmth. That tactile experience is hard to beat! Additionally, roasting the garlic beforehand really mellows its flavor, making it a delectable addition.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. I often experiment with different herbs or add olives to the dough. Each variation offers something unique, and sharing these creations with friends brings me joy. A drizzle of olive oil before serving enhances the flavor further, making it irresistible!

Why You Will Love This Focaccia

Rich and aromatic garlic flavor complemented by fresh herbs
Soft, pillowy texture with a perfectly crispy crust
Versatile base that pairs well with dips or as a sandwich bread

The Importance of Roasted Garlic

Roasted garlic adds a unique depth of flavor to the focaccia that is difficult to achieve with raw garlic. This cooking process transforms the sharpness of raw garlic into a sweet, nutty flavor, elevating the overall profile of the bread. Make sure to roast the garlic until it’s golden brown and soft, which usually takes about 30-40 minutes at 400°F (200°C). This method brings out the best in garlic, adding richness that complements the fresh herbs beautifully.

When incorporating roasted garlic into the dough, be sure to mash it well so it distributes evenly throughout the mixture. This will ensure that every bite of your focaccia captures that rich garlic flavor. Additionally, you can save some roasted garlic to spread on the focaccia itself after baking or to use as a topping alongside olive oil for dipping.

Choosing the Right Herbs

Fresh herbs can transform this focaccia from good to extraordinary. Both rosemary and thyme are traditional choices, lending a fragrant and savory note to the bread. However, feel free to experiment with other herbs like oregano, basil, or even sage for a personal twist. Use about a tablespoon of each, finely chopped, to fold into the dough before the first rise for maximum flavor.

Adding herbs on top during the final stage before baking not only adds flavor but also creates an appealing visual. I recommend mixing the herbs with a generous drizzle of olive oil to help them adhere to the dough and to enhance their aromatic properties as they bake. Watch how the edges crisp up and the herbs become slightly caramelized, adding to the indulgence of each slice.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Roasted Garlic and Herb Focaccia:

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1 1/2 cups warm water
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons salt
5 cloves roasted garlic, mashed
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Coarse sea salt for topping

Make sure to let the dough rise properly to achieve a fluffy texture.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious focaccia:

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Allow to sit for 5 minutes until bubbly. Stir in the flour, salt, olive oil, and roasted garlic until a sticky dough forms.

Knead and Rise

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Shape and Second Rise

Once risen, punch down the dough and transfer it to a greased baking sheet. Press it out to fit the shape of the tray. Cover again and let it rise for another 20 minutes.

Add Herbs and Bake

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). After the second rise, dimple the surface of the dough with your fingers, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with herbs and coarse sea salt. Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Allow the focaccia to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm as a side dish, or enjoy as a snack.

For best results, enjoy the focaccia fresh out of the oven with your favorite dips.

Pro Tips

To make this focaccia even more flavorful, try adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives into the dough before baking.

Storing and Freezing Leftovers

If you have leftover focaccia, allow it to cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Slice the focaccia and wrap individual pieces in plastic, then place them in a freezer bag. You can freeze for up to 3 months without losing significant flavor or texture.

When ready to enjoy your frozen focaccia, remove the desired slices and either let them thaw at room temperature or reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore that delightful crusty exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.

Serving Suggestions

This focaccia is quite versatile when it comes to serving. It pairs wonderfully with Mediterranean dips like hummus or tzatziki, and can be a fantastic accompaniment to soups and salads. Alternatively, try serving it with an olive oil and balsamic vinegar dip, allowing guests to customize each bite with their preferred flavor profiles.

For a heartier option, cut the focaccia into larger pieces and use it as sandwich bread. Layer it with your favorite deli meats, cheeses, and fresh vegetables for a delicious lunchtime treat. The slight chewiness of the crust and soft interior makes it a satisfying choice for making sandwiches that stand up to toppings without falling apart.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this focaccia without gluten?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but be sure to add a binder like xanthan gum.

→ How do I store leftover focaccia?

Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

→ What can I serve with focaccia?

Focaccia pairs wonderfully with olive oil for dipping, marinara sauce, or as a base for sandwiches.

→ Can I add cheese to the focaccia?

Absolutely! Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or feta cheese on top before baking for a cheesy twist.