Easy Garlic Rosemary Focaccia Muffins

Soft, fluffy, and infused with fragrant rosemary and garlic, these savory focaccia muffins bake up with a crisp golden crust and a pillowy interior—perfect as a side dish or snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistibly savory: The combination of garlic and fresh rosemary creates an aromatic flavor explosion.

• Texturally delightful: Crisp on the outside, soft and tender inside.

• Easy to make: Minimal fuss and equipment required—just a bowl, some measuring tools, and a muffin tin.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (or active dry yeast)

• 1 cup warm water (110 °F / 43 °C)

• 1 tablespoon honey (or sugar)

• 3 cups all‑purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ¼ cup extra‑virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling

• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon flaky or coarse sea salt (for topping)

Directions

1. Activate yeast: In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast and honey (or sugar) in warm water. Let sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.

2. Form dough: Add the flour, salt, and olive oil. Stir until a sticky dough forms. Cover with a towel and let rise in a warm place for 45–60 minutes, until doubled.

3. Prep muffin tin: Preheat oven to 375 °F (190 °C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with olive oil.

4. Portion dough: Divide the risen dough evenly into the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.

5. Add flavor topping: Drizzle olive oil over the tops, then sprinkle with chopped rosemary, minced garlic, and flaky sea salt.

6. Bake: Bake for 18–20 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until golden brown and crisp.

7. Cool & serve: Let muffins cool slightly in the tin before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature with dips like olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Servings and timing

• Yield: 12 muffins

• Prep time: 10 minutes (plus 45–60 minutes rising)

• Cook time: 18–20 minutes

• Total time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy twist: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top before baking for a cheesy crust.

• Herb swaps: Use thyme, oregano, or basil in place of (or alongside) rosemary.

• Spicy note: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

• Finish with garlic butter: Brush tops with garlic-infused melted butter immediately after baking.

Storage/reheating

• Same-day best: These muffins taste best fresh from the oven—crispy exterior and soft interior.

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in a preheated oven for best texture.

• Freezing: Freeze unbuttered muffins for a few months; wrap tightly. Reheat in oven at around 375 °F for 10–20 minutes for fresh-from-the-oven feel.

FAQs

1. Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes—you can substitute active dry yeast. If using active dry, you may want to dissolve it first and allow a few extra minutes for proofing.

2. What if I don’t have fresh rosemary?

Dried rosemary works too—but use about half the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

3. How should I store leftovers?

Keep in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days, or freeze (unbuttered) for a few months.

4. What’s the best way to reheat them?

Warm in a preheated oven—this helps restore the crisp crust. A toaster oven works well too.

5. Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes—you can refrigerate the dough (covered) overnight to develop more flavor and bake the next day.

6. What if I don’t have a muffin tin?

Shape the dough into small rounds and bake them on a lined baking sheet instead.

7. Why didn’t my muffins rise well?

Possible reasons: yeast wasn’t fresh, water too hot or cold, or dough was too dense. Ensure water temperature around 110 °F (43 °C) and allow enough rising time.

8. Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose?

Yes—bread flour gives a slightly sturdier texture and chewier crumb, though all-purpose works fine too.

9. Is it okay to add other toppings?

Absolutely! These muffins are versatile—add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or cheese to suit your taste.

10. Do I need to make dimples in the dough?

Yes—pressing dimples with your fingers helps infusion of oil and toppings into the dough and improves texture.

Conclusion

These Easy Garlic Rosemary Focaccia Muffins are your new go-to for a savory bread fix—simple to make, delightfully flavorful, and wonderfully adaptable. Whether served fresh or reheated, they’ll bring a warm, herby comfort to your table.

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