Name: Garlic Butter Focaccia
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups warm water; 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast; 1 tablespoon honey or sugar; 5 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons salt; ¼ cup olive oil; ¼ cup unsalted butter; 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or herbs (optional); 2 tablespoons cornmeal (optional, for pan dusting)

Golden, crisp-edged, and bubbling with garlicky richness, Garlic Butter Focaccia is one of those comfort foods that never fails to please. With its pillowy interior and crunchy, buttery crust, this bread isn’t just a side dish – it’s often the star of the meal. Whether served with soups, pastas, or on its own as a savory snack, this focaccia brings bakery-quality flavor straight from your kitchen.

Infused with fragrant garlic and fresh herbs, each square of this focaccia has that melt-in-your-mouth contrast of crispy golden bottom and soft, airy crumb. It’s simple to prepare, yet feels indulgent, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and gatherings that call for something special.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Focaccia

Intense Garlic Flavor: Thanks to the garlic butter infusion, every bite delivers a bold punch of flavor.
Perfect Texture: The top is golden and crisp, while the inside stays light and fluffy.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Let it rise overnight for an even deeper flavor and easier prep.
Versatile Pairing: Great with pasta, soups, or sliced for sandwiches.
Crowd Pleaser: A guaranteed hit at any potluck or family dinner.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into dough-making, gather your tools for a smooth and efficient experience:

Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining your dough ingredients and allowing the dough to rise.
Stand Mixer (optional): Saves arm strength and helps knead the dough more evenly and quickly.
Baking Pan (preferably a metal or cast-iron 9×13): This is key for developing that crispy, golden bottom crust.
Plastic Wrap or Damp Towel: To cover the dough during proofing and maintain moisture.
Pastry Brush: Useful for spreading the garlic butter evenly across the surface.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the dough consistency is perfect.
Garlic Press (optional): For freshly minced garlic that’s evenly distributed.

With everything prepped and your kitchen smelling of butter and garlic, you’re ready to move to the heart of the recipe!

Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Focaccia

Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the perfect focaccia. Here’s what you need and why:

All-Purpose Flour – The backbone of the dough, providing structure and chew.
Warm Water – Activates the yeast and hydrates the flour.
Instant Yeast – Gives the focaccia its airy rise.
Honey or Sugar – Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle hint of sweetness.
Salt – Enhances flavor and strengthens gluten structure.
Olive Oil – Adds richness, helps create a crispy crust, and keeps the dough tender.
Unsalted Butter – Infuses the bread with buttery goodness when mixed with garlic.
Fresh Garlic – Delivers the star flavor in every bite.
Fresh Parsley or Herbs (optional) – Adds brightness and visual appeal.
Cornmeal (optional) – For dusting the pan and creating a crisp, golden bottom.

How To Make the Garlic Butter Focaccia

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, honey (or sugar), and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead by hand or with a stand mixer for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Second Rise in the Pan

Grease a 9×13-inch metal or cast-iron pan generously with olive oil and sprinkle with cornmeal (if using). Stretch the dough to fit the pan, cover again, and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.

Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant (don’t brown the garlic). Stir in chopped herbs if using.

Step 6: Dimple and Butter

Use your fingers to press dimples all over the risen dough. Pour or brush the garlic butter generously over the top, making sure it settles into the crevices.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are crisp.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the focaccia rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm for maximum buttery bliss.

Serving and Storing Garlic Butter Focaccia

Fresh from the oven, Garlic Butter Focaccia is best enjoyed warm, when the crust is perfectly crisp and the garlic butter is still fragrant and melty. Slice into squares and serve as a side with pastas, hearty soups, or salads. It also works beautifully as the base for a sandwich or served alongside a charcuterie board.

To store leftovers, wrap the cooled focaccia in foil or place it in an airtight container. It will keep at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to bring back its signature texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this focaccia ahead of time?

You can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. The next day, bring it to room temperature, stretch into the pan, let it rise again, and bake.

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, just proof the active dry yeast in warm water with the sugar or honey first. Make sure it bubbles before proceeding.

What other herbs go well in this recipe?

Rosemary, thyme, or chives are great additions. Mix them into the dough or the garlic butter.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, though texture will differ. Use a gluten-free all-purpose blend with xanthan gum, and follow manufacturer instructions for yeast dough.

What’s the best way to reheat focaccia?

The oven is ideal: 350°F for 8-10 minutes revives the crust. A toaster oven works great for single servings.

Can I add cheese to this focaccia?

Absolutely. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella, parmesan, or asiago on top with the garlic butter before baking for a cheesy twist.

Want More Bread & Savory Bake Ideas?

If you loved this Garlic Butter Focaccia, you’re in for a treat with these other warm and satisfying recipes:

Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for a portable cheesy twist.
Tzatziki Chicken Veggie Naan Pizza if you’re craving Mediterranean flatbreads.
Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni for a bold garlic-focused dinner idea.
White Sauce Zucchini Spinach Lasagna to pair alongside your focaccia.
Oven Fried Potatoes & Onions as a rustic side dish option.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer or bread board so you can come back to it any time: Kitchen By Kate on Pinterest.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you mix in herbs? Try it with cheese? Or go traditional?

I love seeing your creations and answering any questions. Let’s keep baking and sharing delicious ideas together!