Roasted Garlic and Herb Focaccia

Name: Roasted Garlic and Herb Focaccia
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons instant yeast; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 tablespoon salt; 1 3/4 cups warm water; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 head of garlic, roasted; 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped; Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling; Extra olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Brunch Buffet

I’ve always had a soft spot for tangy, aromatic focaccia, and making it from scratch is surprisingly easy and rewarding! This Roasted Garlic and Herb Focaccia is elevated with the rich flavor of roasted garlic and a medley of fresh herbs. Each bite is satisfyingly airy and full of texture. Whether served warm at dinner or as part of a sandwich, it’s the perfect companion to any meal. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to bake it again and again!

Created by

The Chefellacooks Team

Last updated on 2026-02-08T16:50:28.307Z

When I started experimenting with baking bread, focaccia became my go-to. There’s something immensely satisfying about kneading the dough and watching it rise! The secret to my Roasted Garlic and Herb Focaccia is in the slow-roasting of garlic, which transforms the pungent flavor into a sweet, mellow base that pairs perfectly with the fresh herbs. I’ve found that adding rosemary, thyme, and oregano gives it an aromatic kick that really complements the bread.

Using high-quality olive oil is another essential tip I learned over time—it not only enhances the dough's texture but also brings a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt before baking elevates it even further. If you’re planning a dinner party or just want to spoil yourself, this focaccia is the ultimate choice!

Understanding Focaccia Texture

Focaccia is celebrated for its unique texture, which strikes a balance between crispness and a soft, airy crumb. The key to achieving this is in the dough’s hydration and the kneading process. Using 1 3/4 cups of warm water ensures the dough remains on the stickier side. This high hydration leads to a delightful chew in the crust while creating the airy pockets inside. Kneading for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth is crucial; over-kneading can make it tough, so be attentive to its texture.

Allowing the dough to rise properly is equally essential. The first rise, lasting about an hour, encourages the yeast to work effectively, creating gas bubbles that contribute to the dough's airy structure. Make sure to place it in a warm spot, ideally around 75-80°F (24-27°C). If your kitchen is chilly, consider turning the oven to a low setting for a few minutes, turning it off, and placing the bowl inside – this can create an ideal environment for rising.

Roasting Garlic for Maximum Flavor

Roasting garlic transforms its sharp, raw flavor into a rich, nutty sweetness that complements the herby focaccia. When you roast the garlic at 400°F (200°C), be sure to keep an eye on it; it should be soft and golden after about 30 minutes. If you notice the tops starting to darken too much, you can cover them with a bit of foil to prevent burning. The result will be perfectly caramelized cloves that can easily be squeezed from their skins, creating a spreadable topping for your focaccia.

In terms of storage, leftover roasted garlic can be kept in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also blend it into olive oil to create a flavorful drizzle for future uses. Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano elevate the flavor profile, but feel free to get creative with herb combinations based on your preference or what you have on hand!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious focaccia:

For the Dough

4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons instant yeast
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon salt
1 3/4 cups warm water
1/4 cup olive oil

For the Toppings

1 head of garlic, roasted
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
Extra olive oil for drizzling

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready for maximum efficiency!

Instructions

Here’s how to make the Roasted Garlic and Herb Focaccia:

Prepare the Roasted Garlic

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off the garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap it in foil. Roast in the oven for 30 minutes until soft and caramelized.

Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a sticky dough forms. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.

Shape and Second Rise

After the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer to a greased baking sheet. Spread it out gently to fit the pan. Cover and let it rise again for 30 minutes.

Add Toppings

While the dough is rising, squeeze the caramelized garlic out of their skins into a bowl and mix with the herbs. Once the dough has risen, use your fingers to create dimples in the surface, then spread the garlic herb mixture and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with flaky salt.

Bake the Focaccia

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Your focaccia is now ready to enjoy! Serve warm with more olive oil or your favorite dips.

Pro Tips

Let the focaccia cool slightly before cutting to ensure a nice texture. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and toppings, such as olives or sun-dried tomatoes, for added flavor!

Serving Suggestions

This Roasted Garlic and Herb Focaccia is incredibly versatile. Pair it with a hearty soup, like minestrone or tomato basil, to soak up the broth, or slice it for use in sandwiches, adding layers of flavor to your favorite fillings. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze over the top before serving can also offer an extra tangy dimension that complements the richness of the roasted garlic beautifully.

You can also use it as a base for appetizers—cut it into cubes to serve with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. It can even be topped with fresh ingredients like burrata and tomatoes for a delightful bruschetta-style treat. The options are endless!

Storing and Reheating Tips

To store your focaccia, allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container. It’s best eaten within 2-3 days at room temperature, but you can extend its life by storing it in the fridge. If you plan on enjoying it later, consider freezing it. Slice the focaccia and wrap each piece in plastic, then store in a freezer-safe bag. It will last for about 2 months in the freezer.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen focaccia, simply thaw it at room temperature or reheat it directly from the freezer. For the best results, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and warm the focaccia directly on the rack for about 10-15 minutes, until it’s heated through and the crust regains its crispness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and a healthy twist.

→ How should 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 up to a month.

→ Can I make this focaccia vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the butter and use extra olive oil instead, which works beautifully.

→ What can I serve with focaccia?

Focaccia pairs well with soups, salads, or can be used to make delicious sandwiches.