There’s something undeniably enticing about a warm, freshly baked loaf of Cheese & Herb Focaccia. The golden crust, combined with the aromatic blend of herbs and gooey melty cheese, creates a sensory experience that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re dipping it in olive oil or enjoying it alongside a comforting bowl of soup, this Italian bread elevates any meal.
Moreover, the versatility of this cheesy and fragrant bread makes it a perfect addition to your table. You can customize it with your favorite herbs, spices, or even roasted vegetables, making each batch uniquely yours. So, get ready to dive into the delightful world of Cheese & Herb Focaccia, and learn how easy it is to bring this culinary masterpiece to your kitchen!
Ingredients for Cheese & Herb Focaccia:
To make a delightful Cheese & Herb Focaccia, gather the following ingredients:
Dough:
– 12 ounces lukewarm water
– 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons salt
– 2 teaspoons organic sugar
– 4 cups bread flour (or all-purpose flour)
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon Weber roasted garlic & herb seasoning
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
Focaccia Topping:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 to 3/4 cup fresh Parmesan cheese, grated
– 10 finely chopped fresh basil leaves
– 2-3 teaspoons organic cornmeal
This fluffy and aromatic focaccia is perfect for any meal. The addition of herbs and cheese elevates its flavor, turning it into a favorite for gatherings. For a delicious side option that complements your focaccia, check out this recipe for Garlic Herb Focaccia. Not only does it highlight similar ingredients, but it also underscores the versatility of focaccia in various culinary contexts!
Enjoy creating this masterpiece that will surely impress your family and friends.
How to Prepare Cheese & Herb Focaccia:
Creating a delightful Cheese & Herb Focaccia is simple. Start by combining 12 ounces of lukewarm water, 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 teaspoons of salt, and 2 teaspoons of organic sugar in a large bowl. Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast and stir gently. Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Next, gradually add 4 cups of bread flour, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and 1 teaspoon of Weber roasted garlic & herb. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for around 10 minutes, then place it in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
Once risen, preheat your oven to 425°F. Gently stretch the dough onto a greased baking sheet. For the tasty topping, drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of salt, and distribute ½ to ¾ cup of fresh Parmesan cheese over the surface. Add 10 finely chopped basil leaves and finally, dust 2-3 teaspoons of organic cornmeal for added texture.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. The crust should be golden brown, and the aroma will be irresistible! Enjoy your homemade Cheese & Herb Focaccia as a perfect side or snack. For more delicious bread ideas, check out my Garlic Herb Focaccia recipe that adds an aromatic twist.
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Cheese & Herb Focaccia: Golden, Cheesy & Irresistible 🍞🧀🌿
- Total Time: 45 minutes (+ rising time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cheese & Herb Focaccia is a soft, fluffy Italian bread topped with gooey melted cheese and fragrant herbs. With its golden crust and rich flavor, it’s perfect as a side, appetizer, or snack—ideal for dipping, sharing, or enjoying on its own.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 12 oz (350ml) lukewarm water
- 2–3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 4 cups bread flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic & herb seasoning
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
For the Topping:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ to ¾ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 10 fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 2–3 teaspoons cornmeal
Instructions
- Activate yeast:
- In a bowl, mix lukewarm water, sugar, and yeast.
- Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Make the dough:
- Add olive oil, salt, flour, and seasonings.
- Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead:
- Knead on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First rise:
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
- Shape:
- Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F).
- Transfer dough to a greased baking tray.
- Stretch gently and dimple the surface with your fingers.
- Add toppings:
- Drizzle olive oil over the dough.
- Sprinkle salt, Parmesan cheese, and chopped basil.
- Lightly dust with cornmeal.
- Second rise:
- Let rest for 20–30 minutes.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Cool slightly and enjoy warm.
Notes
- Use mozzarella for extra meltiness if desired.
- Add olives, cherry tomatoes, or chili flakes for variation.
- Don’t skip dimpling—it creates the classic focaccia texture.
- Best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in the oven.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread / Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
Keywords: Cheese & Herb Focaccia, homemade focaccia, Italian bread, easy focaccia recipe
Key Tips for Perfecting Cheese & Herb Focaccia:
To achieve the best Cheese & Herb Focaccia, start with high-quality ingredients. Use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, as they significantly enhance the flavor profile. When mixing the dough, ensure it’s not overworked; a gentle touch maintains the ideal texture. In addition, let the dough rise in a warm spot to encourage optimal fermentation, which results in a light and airy bread. For a crispy crust, add olive oil both to the dough and the baking pan. Drizzle some oil on top before baking for extra richness.
Consider pairing the focaccia with a delicious side like my Garlic Herb Focaccia, which offers a fantastic contrast in flavors. Lastly, if you’d like enhanced guidance, you can find a fantastic recipe at Food52, showcasing various techniques to elevate this delightful bread. Be patient and watch your focaccia transform into a luscious, herb-infused masterpiece!
Serving Suggestions for Cheese & Herb Focaccia:
Cheese & Herb Focaccia can elevate any meal or snack time. Serve it warm, straight from the oven, as a side to your favorite pasta or salad for an inviting combination. Pair the focaccia with a homemade dipping oil, featuring balsamic vinegar and herbs, to enhance the flavors of the bread.
For a delightful appetizer, slice the focaccia into small squares and top each piece with a dollop of herbed cream cheese or a spread like tomato basil confit. Another great idea is to use it as a base for an Italian-inspired bruschetta. To complement your cheese & herb creation, consider preparing easy 2-ingredient cottage cheese bread; its soft texture will match well with the focaccia.
Whether shared during a gathering or enjoyed alone, this versatile bread is a scrumptious addition to any table!
Variations :
Cheese & Herb Focaccia is versatile, allowing for many delightful variations. One option is to incorporate roasted garlic into the dough for an extra depth of flavor. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to suit your taste preferences. For a cheesy twist, try adding grated parmesan or mozzarella on top before baking.
If you’re looking for something even heartier, consider creating a stuffed focaccia filled with spinach and ricotta. This method elevates your focaccia to a whole new level, merging textures and flavors in every bite. Additionally, find inspiration in dishes like Garlic Herb Focaccia, which showcases herbs in all their glory, making it a perfect companion to your cheese focaccia.
Lastly, include olives or sun-dried tomatoes to introduce a savory punch that complements the cheese beautifully. These variations not only enhance flavor but also provide exciting options that can please a crowd. Enjoy discovering new combinations!
Storage Tips for Cheese & Herb Focaccia:
To maintain the freshness of your delightful cheese & herb focaccia, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying again. You might also love trying garlic herb focaccia for a flavorful twist!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What ingredients are needed for Cheese & Herb Focaccia?
To create a delightful Cheese & Herb Focaccia, you’ll need basic ingredients like flour, yeast, warm water, salt, and olive oil. Additionally, for that cheesy flavor, shredded mozzarella or parmesan works beautifully, alongside fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme. This combination gives your focaccia a rich taste that’s hard to resist.
How should I store leftovers of Cheese & Herb Focaccia?
If you have any leftover focaccia, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you may also freeze it. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag to maintain its freshness.
Can I make Cheese & Herb Focaccia vegan?
Absolutely! For a vegan version of this cheesy herb bread, substitute dairy cheese with plant-based alternatives. You can find a variety of dairy-free cheese that melts well, ensuring your creation maintains that satisfying cheesy goodness.
What can I serve with Cheese & Herb Focaccia?
This savory focaccia pairs excellently with a wide range of dishes. Enjoy it alongside soups, such as the One Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup with Bacon for a hearty meal, or simply dip it in olive oil or balsamic vinegar for a flavorful appetizer.
Can I customize the herb selection for my Cheese & Herb Focaccia?
Certainly! Feel free to experiment with different herbs according to your taste. While rosemary and thyme are popular, adding basil, oregano, or even a hint of garlic can elevate your Cheese & Herb Focaccia to new heights.
How long does it take to bake Cheese & Herb Focaccia?
Typically, your focaccia will require about 20-25 minutes in a preheated oven set to 425°F (220°C). It should emerge golden brown and delicious, passing the baking test with its aromatic fragrance filling your kitchen.