Fluffy Garlic Rosemary Focaccia Muffins

Introduction:
Fluffy Garlic Rosemary Focaccia Muffins are a creative take on the traditional Italian bread. These savory muffins are soft, airy, and infused with garlic and rosemary. Perfect as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, these muffins bring the rustic charm of focaccia into a fun, single-serve format.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Perfectly portioned: No slicing required—each muffin is a perfect serving.
• Bursting with flavor: The garlic and rosemary add a savory, aromatic touch.
• Great for any meal: Serve as an accompaniment to soups, salads, or pasta dishes.
• Easy to make: Simple dough that bakes up light and fluffy.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup olive oil (plus extra for brushing)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt

For the Topping:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
   • Stir until a rough dough forms, then transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Muffin Tins:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin with olive oil or line with paper muffin liners.
3. Shape the Dough into Muffins:
   • Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal portions.
   • Roll each portion into a ball and place them in the prepared muffin cups.
   • Use your fingers to press down on the dough balls, creating small dimples on top.
4. Prepare the Topping:
   • In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped rosemary.
   • Brush the garlic-rosemary oil generously over the top of each dough ball.
   • Sprinkle each muffin with coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, if desired.
5. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the focaccia muffins are golden brown and the tops are slightly crisp.
   • Remove from the oven and allow the muffins to cool slightly in the tin before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Serve:
   • Serve warm or at room temperature. These muffins are delicious on their own or served with a side of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.

Tips for Success:

• Garlic infusion: For a deeper garlic flavor, infuse the olive oil with garlic ahead of time by gently heating the oil with the minced garlic until fragrant.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare the dough ahead of time and let it rise in the fridge overnight for a more developed flavor.

Recipe Variations:

• Cheesy Focaccia Muffins: Add shredded Parmesan or mozzarella cheese on top before baking for an extra layer of savory goodness.
• Herb Mix: Try using thyme or oregano along with the rosemary for a more complex flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair these muffins with a bowl of warm soup, like tomato bisque or minestrone, for a hearty meal.
• Serve as a side with your favorite pasta dishes or as part of a charcuterie board.

Freezing and Storage:

• Storage: Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooled muffins in an airtight container or plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Special Equipment:

• Muffin tin for baking the individual muffins.

FAQ:

• Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?
  Yes, you can substitute dried rosemary, but use half the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
• Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
  Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend suitable for bread baking to make these muffins gluten-free.

Preparation Time:

• 15 minutes for preparing the dough.
• 1-1.5 hours for rising.
• 10 minutes for shaping and preparing toppings.

Cook Time:

• 18-22 minutes for baking.

Total Time:

• 1.5 to 2 hours (including prep, rise, and baking).

Nutrition Information (per muffin):

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 290mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

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Closing Notes:
These Fluffy Garlic Rosemary Focaccia Muffins are a delicious and versatile addition to any meal. With their light, fluffy texture and aromatic flavor, they’re sure to be a hit whether served on a weeknight or at a special gathering!