Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread

Making your own bread at home can be a rewarding experience, and there’s something undeniably special about the aroma of fresh-baked bread wafting through your kitchen. If you’re a fan of Subway’s Italian Herb & Cheese Bread, you’ll love this delightful copycat recipe that brings the same delicious flavors right to your dining table. It’s perfect for sandwich nights, gatherings, or even just as a treat for yourself, inviting you to dive into the world of homemade wonders.

What Makes This Recipe Special

You might wonder why you should take the time to whip up a loaf of bread when there are plenty of options at the store. Well, this Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread is more than just your average bread recipe; it’s a culinary adventure that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. It’s not only budget-friendly and quick to prepare, but it also satisfies those cravings for authentic flavors you usually enjoy at Subway.

Imagine the joy of pulling a golden-brown loaf out of your oven, ready to be slathered in butter or transformed into the perfect sandwich. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner with the family, a cozy brunch, or a game-day treat, this recipe has you covered. As one home cook put it:

“This bread is a game-changer! I never knew making homemade bread could be this easy and delicious. My whole family devoured it in one sitting!”

How to Prepare This Recipe

Getting ready to bake this delightful bread? You’re in for a treat! This recipe consists of a few straightforward steps that lead you to a beautifully risen loaf. With a rise and bake time of just over an hour, you’ll have fresh bread that tastes like it came straight from your favorite sandwich shop.

You’ll start by activating the yeast, which paves the way for that airy texture we all love. Mixing your ingredients, letting the dough rise twice, and adding a cheesy herb-filled twist makes this recipe quite approachable. Let’s dive into the essentials!

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What You’ll Need

To create your Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese 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
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)

Note: You can substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour for a healthier loaf while maintaining moisture and flavor.

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the flour, salt, and Italian seasoning together. Create a well in the center for the liquids.

  3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the well you’ve made in the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until just combined, then knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.

  4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the kneaded dough into an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm area for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.

  5. Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle approximately 12 inches long and 6 inches wide.

  6. Add the Cheese and Herbs: Brush the dough with olive oil, then sprinkle the mozzarella, Parmesan, and an additional teaspoon of Italian seasoning over it. Press gently to help the cheese stick.

  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, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

  9. Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread

Best Way to Serve

Now that you have your mouth-watering bread ready, the question is—what to serve it with? This Italian Herb & Cheese Bread is incredibly versatile! Here are a few ideas:

  • Make the Ultimate Sandwich: Layer on turkey, lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of pesto for a fresh take on a classic sub.
  • Pair with Soups: It makes a fantastic side for tomato soup or a hearty minestrone. Tear off pieces for dipping.
  • Toast or Garlic Bread: Slice the loaf and top it with garlic butter for a tasty twist on garlic bread to complement pasta dishes.

Storage Tips

To keep your bread fresh for longer, storing it properly is key. Here’s how you can do it:

  • Room Temperature: Store the bread in a paper bag or breadbox to prevent moisture buildup. It should stay good for about 2-3 days.
  • Freezing: To extend the shelf life, you can freeze your loaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Allow it to thaw at room temperature before reheating.
  • Reheating: If you want to revitalize the loaf, place it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes.

Expert Advice

To get the best results with this recipe, here are some tips:

  • Kneading: Ensure you knead the dough adequately. This develops gluten, giving your bread its structure. If it feels too sticky, add flour a little at a time.
  • Temperature Matters: The water temperature for activating yeast is crucial. Too hot can kill the yeast; too cold will not activate it. Aim for around 110°F (45°C).
  • Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add other herbs or garlic powder for extra flavor. This bread is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity!

Creative Twists

Why stick to the original when you can customize it? Here are some creative twists to elevate your bread game:

  • Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or even olives into the dough for a Mediterranean flair.
  • Cheesy Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a spicier version.
  • Gluten-Free Alternative: Use a gluten-free flour blend if you’re avoiding gluten, keeping in mind that results may vary.

Your Questions Answered

Here are some common questions about making this delicious bread:

How long does it take to prepare this bread?
From start to finish, including the rise time, it takes about 2 hours, but active preparation is only about 30 minutes.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can. If using instant yeast, you can mix it directly into the dry ingredients without proofing.

How can I ensure my bread rises well?
Make sure to place your dough in a warm, draft-free area. If your kitchen is cool, try the oven—turn it on low for a few minutes, then turn it off and place your dough inside to rise.

This homemade Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread is bound to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether for sandwiches, sides, or just enjoying the bread on its own, the flavors and the experience of baking it will surely bring joy to your kitchen!

Print
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Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread


  • Total Time: 60 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This delightful copycat recipe brings the same delicious flavors of Subway’s Italian Herb & Cheese Bread right to your kitchen. Perfect for sandwiches or enjoying fresh out of the oven!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 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
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the flour, salt, and Italian seasoning together. Create a well in the center for the liquids.
  3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the well you’ve made in the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until just combined, then knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the kneaded dough into an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm area for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.
  5. Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle approximately 12 inches long and 6 inches wide.
  6. Add the Cheese and Herbs: Brush the dough with olive oil, then sprinkle the mozzarella, Parmesan, and an additional teaspoon of Italian seasoning over it. Press gently to help the cheese stick.
  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, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
  9. Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

Notes

For a healthier loaf, substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour. Store in a paper bag or breadbox at room temperature for 2-3 days, or freeze to extend shelf life.

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

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 3g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg

Keywords: bread, homemade bread, Italian bread, copycat recipe, Subway bread

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