Print

Crispy Garlic Scape and Parmesan Focaccia Bread

garlic scape focaccia bread - featured image

A flavorful focaccia bread featuring crispy garlic scapes and nutty Parmesan cheese, with a perfect balance of a crispy crust and soft interior. Easy to make and ideal for entertaining or everyday meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 ½ cups (420 g) all-purpose flour (can swap half for bread flour for chewier texture)
  • 1 ½ cups (360 ml) warm water (around 100°F / 38°C)
  • 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 1 tsp granulated sugar
  • 1 ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
  • 68 garlic scapes, chopped into 1 to 2-inch pieces
  • ½ cup (50 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp coarse sea salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano or rosemary (optional)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast by whisking warm water and sugar in a small bowl, sprinkle yeast over the surface and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, adding flour or water as needed.
  4. Lightly oil a clean bowl, place dough inside, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1 ½ hours until doubled in size.
  5. Drizzle olive oil on a 9×13-inch rimmed baking sheet, spreading evenly to coat bottom and sides.
  6. Gently deflate the risen dough and transfer to the prepared pan, pressing and stretching to fit the pan shape. Let rest 5 minutes if resistant.
  7. Cover dough loosely and let proof for 20-30 minutes until slightly puffed.
  8. Dimple the dough surface by pressing down repeatedly with fingers. Scatter chopped garlic scapes evenly, pressing them gently into the dough.
  9. Sprinkle grated Parmesan, coarse sea salt, black pepper, and dried herbs if using over the top.
  10. Drizzle olive oil generously over the top, especially around the dimples.
  11. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake focaccia for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  12. Remove from oven and cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool further or slice and serve warm.

Notes

Do not rush the rising process for best texture. Press dimples deeply to hold olive oil and toppings. Use larger garlic scape pieces to avoid burning; optionally sauté scapes for milder flavor. Drizzle olive oil generously after toppings for a crispy crust. Watch bread closely in last 5 minutes to avoid burning. For gluten-free or vegan versions, substitute flour and cheese accordingly.

Nutrition

Keywords: focaccia, garlic scape, Parmesan, homemade bread, crispy bread, easy focaccia, garlic bread, Italian bread