Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread

Creating your own version of Subway’s iconic Italian Herb & Cheese Bread is not just a fun baking project; it’s an experience filled with delicious aromas and the satisfaction of homemade bread. I remember the first time I made this at home; the irresistible scent wafted through the kitchen, inviting everyone in. Whether you’re preparing it for a simple weeknight dinner, a gathering, or just to satisfy a nostalgic craving, this recipe will transform your baking game and take your sandwiches to a whole new level.

What Makes This Recipe Special

There are countless reasons to try this Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread. For one, it’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy gourmet flavor at home. The combination of fresh herbs and gooey cheese baked into warm, fluffy bread elevates any meal. Plus, there’s just something therapeutic about kneading dough and watching it rise—it’s a rewarding process that everyone should try.

"This bread is a game-changer! It’s easy to make and tastes just like the real thing. All my friends loved it at our dinner party!" – A Satisfied Baker

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Making this herb and cheese bread is a delightful journey with a straightforward process. First, you’ll activate the yeast to ensure a perfectly risen dough. After mixing and kneading, the dough rises twice—once to develop flavor and the second time for texture—before it’s baked to a golden perfection. Here’s a sneak peek at what to expect before diving into the ingredients and detailed steps.

What You’ll Need

To whip up this fantastic bread, gather the following ingredients:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (for sprinkling)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)

Note: You can substitute all-purpose flour with bread flour for extra chew, and feel free to experiment with different types of cheese.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it’s frothy.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and Italian seasoning. Make a well in the center.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the well. Stir until incorporated, then knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
4. Let the Dough Rise: Transfer the dough to an oiled bowl. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and turn it onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle measuring 12 inches long and 6 inches wide.
6. Add the Cheese and Herbs: Brush the rolled-out dough with olive oil. Sprinkle mozzarella, Parmesan, and additional Italian seasoning atop the dough, pressing lightly to help the cheese adhere.
7. Let the Dough Rise Again: Cover the dough once more and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
8. Bake the Bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped.
9. Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes prior to slicing.

Perfect Pairings for Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread

The beauty of this herb and cheese bread lies in its versatility. Serve it warm alongside a hearty soup, or make it the star of your sandwich creations. Think roasted vegetables with pesto, salami and provolone cheese, or classic turkey club—endless possibilities await! For a more casual option, add a dipping sauce like marinara or garlic butter for that comforting touch.

Best Way to Store Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread

Once you’ve enjoyed your freshly baked bread, proper storage is key to keeping it delicious. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the bread. Wrap it securely and freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy another slice, thaw it at room temperature or pop it in a warm oven for a few minutes to revive its freshness.

Pro Chef Tips

• Temperature Matters: Ensuring your water is warm (not hot!) activates the yeast without killing it, which is crucial for the perfect rise.
• Knead Thoroughly: Proper kneading develops the gluten, giving your bread a wonderfully chewy texture. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour as you knead.
• Elevate Flavor: Experiment with adding minced garlic or olives for an extra depth of flavor.

Creative Twists

Looking to switch things up? Here are a few fun variations to consider:

• Cheesy Jalapeño Bread: Add diced jalapeños and pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
• Herb-Infused Bread: Replace the Italian seasoning with fresh rosemary and thyme for a delightful twist.
• Garlic Parmesan Crust: Top the dough with an additional layer of minced garlic and extra Parmesan for a savory crust.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare this bread?

The total prep time is about 2 hours (including two rise times), but hands-on time is only about 30 minutes.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes! You can replace active dry yeast with instant yeast. Skip the proofing step; simply combine it with the dry ingredients.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

To revive your bread, slice off what you need and reheat it in an oven at 350°F for about 5–10 minutes, ensuring it retains its soft texture.

With these tips and the delightful experience of making Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread, you’ll surely impress friends and family. Happy baking!

Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread

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• Total Time: 120 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Create your own version of Subway’s iconic Italian Herb & Cheese Bread with a homemade touch.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (for sprinkling)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it’s frothy.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and Italian seasoning. Make a well in the center.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the well. Stir until incorporated, then knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
4. Let the Dough Rise: Transfer the dough to an oiled bowl. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and turn it onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle measuring 12 inches long and 6 inches wide.
6. Add the Cheese and Herbs: Brush the rolled-out dough with olive oil. Sprinkle mozzarella, Parmesan, and additional Italian seasoning atop the dough, pressing lightly to help the cheese adhere.
7. Let the Dough Rise Again: Cover the dough once more and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
8. Bake the Bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped.
9. Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes prior to slicing.

Notes

Store cooled bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 5mg

Keywords: bread, Italian, cheese bread, homemade, baking