Okay, friend—let’s talk about focaccia. But not just any focaccia. We’re talking about Spicy Garlic Confit Butter Focaccia, and oh my goodness, it’s the stuff carb dreams are made of. Golden and crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and soaked in the kind of rich, garlicky, spicy butter that makes you want to dance in your kitchen.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Air Fryer Paper Liners

Buy Now →

Vegetable Chopper

Buy Now →

Magic Bullet Blender

Buy Now →

This bread is bold. It’s indulgent. It’s wildly aromatic (you’re gonna want to bottle the smell), and it’s surprisingly easy to pull off—even if you’re not a seasoned bread baker. Whether you serve it as a show-stopping appetizer, a side for soups and pastas, or as the main event with some dips and wine, this one’s a game-changer.

So roll up those sleeves and let’s get into it—you’re about to meet your new go-to bread obsession.

Why You’ll Love Spicy Garlic Confit Butter Focaccia

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for potlucks, pasta night, cozy date nights, or hey—just a Tuesday when you’re feeling fancy. It’s bread, but make it glow up.

Budget-Friendly: Pantry staples + a few garlic cloves = flavor explosion. You don’t need anything fancy to make this feel luxurious.

Quick and Easy: The dough is no-fuss and beginner-friendly. Most of the time is hands-off, so you can chill while the magic happens.

Customizable: Like it extra spicy? Toss in more chili flakes. Want herbs? Add rosemary, thyme, or even lemon zest. Make it yours!

Crowd-Pleasing: People will go back for seconds (and thirds). That buttery garlic confit seeps into every bite and makes it unforgettable.

Ingredients in Spicy Garlic Confit Butter Focaccia

Here’s the magic of this focaccia—it’s made with simple ingredients, but each one brings something deliciously extra to the table. Let’s break it down:

All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of the dough. Creates that classic chewy, pillowy texture we all love.

Yeast: Helps the dough rise and creates those beautiful air pockets.

Warm Water: Activates the yeast and brings the dough together. Think of it as the start of all the fluffiness.

Salt: Essential for bringing out the flavor in every bite. Don’t skip this!

Olive Oil: Used generously, as it should be with focaccia. It helps crisp the edges and gives the bread its golden, almost-fried bottom.

Garlic Cloves: Slowly simmered until buttery-soft and sweet. These little nuggets of joy melt into the dough like magic.

Unsalted Butter: Combined with the confit oil to create a rich, decadent garlic butter that soaks into the crust.

Red Pepper Flakes: For that warm, spicy kick that elevates this from good to absolutely unforgettable.

Fresh Herbs (Optional): Rosemary, thyme, or parsley add a fragrant, fresh finish.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment: If making the garlic confit first, preheat your oven to 250°F. Later, you’ll crank it up for the focaccia bake.

Make the Garlic Confit: In a small oven-safe dish, submerge peeled garlic cloves in olive oil and bake at low heat until soft, golden, and fragrant—about 45 minutes. Let it cool, then mash the garlic into the oil and stir in the butter and red pepper flakes. Hello, flavor bomb.

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit until bubbly, then add flour, salt, and a generous glug of olive oil. Mix until sticky and shaggy. No kneading needed—just cover and let rise until doubled.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Drizzle a baking dish or sheet pan with olive oil. This ensures that iconic crispy, golden bottom. Yes please.

Assemble the Dish: Plop the risen dough into the oiled pan. Stretch it gently to fit, then use your fingers to dimple the surface—this is the fun part! Drizzle that spicy garlic confit butter all over the top, getting it deep into those little craters.

Cook to Perfection: Bake at 425°F for 25–30 minutes until deeply golden and crisp on the edges. Your kitchen will smell like heaven, guaranteed.

Finishing Touches: Let it cool slightly (if you can wait). Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and fresh herbs if using. Slice into squares, pull apart with your hands, and get ready to fall in love.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm as a side, appetizer, or main snack. Dip it, dunk it, or just eat it straight from the pan—we’re not judging.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: [Number of servings]
Calories per serving: [Calorie count per serving]

Preparation Time

Prep Time: [Time to prepare ingredients]
Cook Time: [Time to bake and confit garlic]
Total Time: [Total time needed]

How to Serve Spicy Garlic Confit Butter Focaccia

This focaccia is as versatile as it is addictive. Here are some dreamy ways to serve it:

With Pasta: Mop up every bit of marinara or creamy Alfredo sauce—this bread is made for it.

Soup Companion: Tomato basil, butternut squash, or creamy mushroom? Yes, yes, and YES.

Charcuterie Boards: Cut into strips and serve alongside meats, cheeses, and dips for the ultimate party board.

As a Sandwich Base: Slice it horizontally and stuff it with grilled veggies, mozzarella, or prosciutto.

Solo Star: Honestly, it’s so good you don’t need anything else. Maybe just a glass of wine.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

Let It Rest: After baking, let the focaccia sit for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This lets the flavors settle and keeps it from getting gummy.

Don’t Rush the Rise: Give the dough time to rise—it’s where the magic happens.

Use the Garlic Oil Everywhere: Leftover oil? Drizzle it on veggies, pizza, or even scrambled eggs.

Make Ahead: You can prep the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge. Just bring it to room temp before baking.

Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to [time duration]. Reheat in a toaster oven to revive the crisp edges.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make the garlic confit ahead of time?
A1: Absolutely! Store it in the fridge in a sealed jar for up to a week. Just warm it before using.

Q2: Can I make this without butter for a vegan version?
A2: Yes! Swap in more olive oil or vegan butter and it’s just as divine.

Q3: What’s the best flour to use?
A3: All-purpose works beautifully, but you can mix in some bread flour for extra chew.

Q4: Can I freeze the baked focaccia?
A4: Definitely. Wrap slices tightly and freeze. Reheat in the oven for that fresh-baked vibe.

Q5: What if I don’t have red pepper flakes?
A5: Try a pinch of cayenne, hot paprika, or even a splash of hot sauce in the butter.

Q6: Do I need a stand mixer?
A6: Nope! This dough comes together easily by hand—no mixer needed.

Q7: Can I add toppings like olives or onions?
A7: Yes, and yes. Press them into the top before baking for extra flair and flavor.

Q8: How do I get the edges really crispy?
A8: Use plenty of olive oil in the pan and make sure the oven is fully preheated.

Q9: Can I use instant yeast?
A9: You sure can—just mix it directly into the flour and skip the proofing step.

Q10: How spicy is it?
A10: It has a gentle heat, but you can dial it up or down depending on your preference.

Conclusion

Spicy Garlic Confit Butter Focaccia is the kind of recipe that feels fancy but is secretly super chill. It brings big bakery vibes into your kitchen with very little effort—and a whole lotta flavor. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or hoarding the last piece for yourself (no judgment), this bread is guaranteed to win hearts. So go ahead and bake a batch—your tastebuds will thank you later.

Spicy Garlic Confit Butter Focaccia

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews

Author: Maria
Prep Time: 1 day 5 hours
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 day 5 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in this spicy garlic confit focaccia, made with homemade garlic confit butter, chili oil garlic confit, and topped with parmesan for a rich, flavorful experience. Perfect as a side dish or a snack, this focaccia is sure to be a crowd-pleaser! #SpicyGarlicConfit #FocacciaRecipe #HomemadeFocaccia #GarlicConfit #ChiliOil #SpicyBread #ItalianBread #GarlicButterFocaccia #SavoryBread #EasyFocacciaRecipe

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 120°C (250°F) for the chili oil garlic confit.
Peel the garlic by placing the cloves into boiling water for 5 minutes, then drain and peel off the skin. Place garlic and chilies in an ovenproof dish, submerge in chili olive oil, and bake for 2 hours until garlic slightly browns. Let it cool and store in an airtight container.
For the spicy garlic confit butter, blend all ingredients in a food processor until smooth and well combined.
To make the focaccia, mix lukewarm water, yeast, and honey in a bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes to activate the yeast. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt, then add the yeast mixture and mix to form a sticky dough.
Coat a mixing bowl with 4 tablespoons of garlic confit olive oil and transfer the dough. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 6 hours or up to 24 hours.
Remove the dough from the fridge, fold it over itself, and shape it into a ball. Coat a baking dish with 2 tablespoons garlic confit olive oil, place the dough, and stretch it slightly into a rectangular shape. Let it rise for 3-4 hours.
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Drizzle 1 tablespoon of garlic confit olive oil over the dough, use your fingers to create dimples, and scatter garlic confit butter over the dough. Place garlic confit cloves into the dimples, sprinkle chili flakes, and a pinch of salt. Top with parmesan cheese and drizzle with another tablespoon of garlic confit olive oil.
Bake for 20-30 minutes until the crust is golden. Let the bread cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes

Let the focaccia rise in a warm area to ensure it doubles in size for a soft and airy texture.
If desired, add extra chili flakes for more spice.
This focaccia pairs beautifully with salads, soups, or as a side to your favorite Mediterranean dishes.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
Calories: 350
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 30mg