If you love the irresistible combination of warm, fluffy bread with a golden, buttery crust infused with fresh garlic and herbs, you are going to adore this Garlic Butter Focaccia Recipe. It’s that perfect crowd-pleaser that brings the cozy vibes of an Italian kitchen right to your home, delivering soft, pillowy bites with an aromatic garlic punch. Whether you’re pairing it with pasta, enjoying it as a snack, or serving it at your next gathering, this focaccia offers a satisfying texture and flavor that feels both rustic and luxurious. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find it hard to go back to store-bought bread again.

Garlic Butter Focaccia Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Garlic Butter Focaccia Recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of each ingredient. Every component plays a key role, from the yeast that gives the dough life to the olive oil that creates a silky texture and the butter and garlic that crown the bread with rich, savory goodness.

Warm water: Activates the yeast and helps develop the dough.
Instant yeast: Essential for a light, fluffy texture through proper rising.
Honey or sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a slight sweetness that balances savory notes.
All-purpose flour: The base of the dough, providing structure and chewiness.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors and tightens the gluten network.
Olive oil: Brings moisture and a subtle fruity richness.
Unsalted butter: Combined with garlic for a decadent topping that crisps up beautifully.
Fresh garlic, minced: Gives that unmistakable bold and aromatic flavor.
Chopped parsley or herbs (optional): Adds freshness and a pop of color.
Cornmeal (optional, for pan dusting): Creates a lovely crunchy bottom crust and prevents sticking.

How to Make Garlic Butter Focaccia Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by combining the warm water, honey or sugar, and instant yeast in a large bowl. This mixture needs to sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly. This step wakes up the yeast, which is crucial to getting your dough to rise properly, ensuring a light and airy bread.

Step 2: Mix and Knead the Dough

Once the yeast is foamy, add the all-purpose flour, salt, and olive oil. Stir everything together until a shaggy dough forms, then knead by hand or with a mixer for about 8 to 10 minutes. Kneading develops gluten, giving the focaccia its characteristic chewy yet tender bite.

Step 3: First Rise

Transfer the dough into a bowl lightly coated with olive oil, cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size. This resting time allows the dough to develop flavor and texture.

Step 4: Prepare the Pan and Second Rise

Grease a 9 by 13-inch pan with olive oil and dust it with cornmeal to prevent sticking and add extra crunch. Press the risen dough evenly into the pan, cover it again, and let it rise for another 30 to 45 minutes. This second rise is what creates the iconic height and lightness of focaccia bread.

Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter Topping

Melt unsalted butter gently in a saucepan over low heat. Add the minced fresh garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until the garlic releases its fragrance without browning. Stir in chopped parsley or your choice of herbs for a refreshing herbaceous note that complements the garlic perfectly.

Step 6: Dimples and Butter the Dough

Using your fingers, press deep dimples all over the dough’s surface. This not only gives focaccia its signature look but also helps trap pools of the garlicky butter mixture, distributing flavor throughout every bite. Generously brush or pour the garlic butter over the dough, letting it seep into those crevices for a moist, flavorful crust.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Pop your pan into a preheated oven set at 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius). Bake the focaccia for 20 to 25 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and crisp. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is pure magic — a warm invitation to enjoy something truly special.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Allow the focaccia to cool slightly in the pan before slicing it into 12 generous pieces. Serving it warm ensures the butter is still luscious, and the bread remains fluffy and inviting.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Focaccia Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a little flaky sea salt or freshly cracked black pepper on top right after baking to elevate the texture and flavor. A pinch of grated Parmesan or Romano cheese added just before baking can also lend a salty, savory kick. Fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or basil impart a vibrant finish and cheerful green color.

Side Dishes

This focaccia is incredibly versatile alongside a variety of dishes. Pair it with your favorite pasta sauce to soak up every last drop, enjoy it as a side to a hearty soup, or serve alongside a fresh salad for a light meal. Its buttery richness perfectly complements roasted vegetables and grilled meats too.

Creative Ways to Present

Imagine slicing the focaccia into thick squares, then layering it with roasted tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil for a delectable mini sandwich. Or cut into strips and serve with an herb-infused olive oil or marinara for dipping — a fun and casual twist for parties. You can even use leftover bread for croutons to add crunch to salads or soups.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap the focaccia tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container once cooled to keep it fresh. Stored at room temperature, it will stay soft for up to two days. For slightly longer storage, refrigerate the bread, which can extend freshness for up to 4 days, but bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

Garlic Butter Focaccia Recipe freezes beautifully. After it has cooled, wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag or container. Frozen focaccia will maintain its flavor and texture for up to 3 months, making it a great make-ahead option for busy days.

Reheating

For the freshest taste, reheat your focaccia in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes, uncovered. This crisps the crust again and warms the buttery interior. Avoid microwaving if possible as it can make the bread chewy or soggy.

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, you can substitute active dry yeast, but you’ll need to proof it in warm water first for about 5 to 10 minutes before mixing with other ingredients. Instant yeast skips this step and can be added directly.

What if I don’t have fresh garlic on hand?

Fresh garlic delivers the best flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Sprinkle it on top after the second rise or mix it into the melted butter. Avoid pre-minced jarred garlic for baking, as it can turn bitter.

Can I add cheese to the focaccia?

Absolutely! Shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, or even a sprinkle of feta before baking adds richness and depth. Cheese tends to create delicious golden spots on the crust where it melts.

What’s the secret to getting those perfect dimples?

Use your fingertips with a gentle but firm pressure to press evenly spaced dimples all over the dough. Don’t be afraid to press deeply—these pockets hold seasoning and butter, creating that trademark focaccia texture.

Is it possible to make this focaccia gluten-free?

Traditional focaccia relies on gluten for its texture, so substituting with gluten-free flours is tricky and usually requires specific blends and additional binders. You might try gluten-free focaccia recipes designed for those flours rather than adapting this one.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Focaccia Recipe is a true kitchen gem that combines humble ingredients with thoughtful technique to create something truly comforting and delicious. From the first bite of warm, garlicky, buttery bread to the final crumb, it rewards patience and love for good food. Whether you’re serving it at family dinners or enjoying a quiet snack, this focaccia will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. So grab your ingredients, get your hands doughy, and make some magic happen!

Garlic Butter Focaccia Recipe