Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread

This Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread recipe is a must-try for anyone craving that delectable blend of soft, cheesy, and herby goodness found in Subway’s beloved bread. Perfect for sandwiches or enjoyed on its own, this homemade version brings the taste of Italy right to your kitchen. With its airy texture and rich flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your home.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Dough
• For the Cheese Topping
• For Brushing
• How to Make Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread
• Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
• Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
• Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
• Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
• Step 5: Shape the Dough
• Step 6: Add the Cheese and Herbs
• Step 7: Let the Dough Rise Again
• Step 8: Bake the Bread
• Step 9: Cool and Serve
• How to Serve Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread
• As a Sandwich Base
• With Dips
• As Garlic Bread
• On Its Own
• In a Charcuterie Board
• How to Perfect Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread
• Best Side Dishes for Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread
• Reheating Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread different?
• Can I customize my Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread?
• How do I ensure my Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread rises properly?
• Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for beginners.
• Versatile Use: Enjoy it as sandwich bread, garlic bread, or even paired with soups and salads.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of Italian herbs and cheese creates a delightful taste that elevates any meal.
• Homemade Goodness: There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of baking bread from scratch, filling your home with mouth-watering aromas.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or cheeses to make it uniquely yours!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to easily combine your ingredients without mess.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect bread texture.
• Rolling pin: Ensures even dough thickness when shaping your bread.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 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

For the Cheese Topping

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For Brushing

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)

How to Make Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

Combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast in a small bowl. Stir gently and let sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and Italian seasoning. Make a well in the center.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the well in the dry ingredients. Stir to combine. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Place dough in an oiled bowl. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle measuring 12 inches long by 6 inches wide.

Step 6: Add the Cheese and Herbs

Brush the dough with olive oil. Sprinkle mozzarella, Parmesan, and additional Italian seasoning over the dough. Press lightly to help the cheese stick.

Step 7: Let the Dough Rise Again

Cover the dough once more and let it rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 8: Bake the Bread

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown on top and hollow when tapped.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool for at least 15 minutes on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy!

How to Serve Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread

This flavorful bread is versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether as a side or the star of a meal, here are some delightful suggestions for enjoying your homemade Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread.

As a Sandwich Base

• Use it for classic deli sandwiches filled with your favorite meats and cheeses.
• Try it as a base for a meatball sub, topped with marinara sauce and extra cheese.

With Dips

• Serve warm with marinara sauce or garlic butter for dipping.
• Pair it with a creamy spinach dip for a delicious appetizer.

As Garlic Bread

• Slice the bread and spread garlic butter on top, then toast until golden.
• Use it as the perfect accompaniment to pasta dishes or salads.

On Its Own

• Enjoy it fresh out of the oven with a drizzle of olive oil.
• Toast slices lightly and serve them with butter for breakfast.

In a Charcuterie Board

• Include slices of this bread on your charcuterie board alongside meats, cheeses, and olives.
• It’s an excellent way to add an Italian touch to your gatherings.

How to Perfect Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread

To ensure your Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Yeast: Always check the expiration date on your yeast. Fresh yeast helps the dough rise better.
• Monitor Water Temperature: Ensure your water is warm but not hot; around 110°F (45°C) is ideal. Too hot can kill the yeast.
• Knead Thoroughly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This helps develop gluten, giving the bread its structure.
• Don’t Rush Rising: Allow enough time for both rises. A well-risen dough will be light and fluffy after baking.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the herbs used in the recipe based on personal preferences for added flavor.
• Cool Before Slicing: Let the bread cool completely before slicing to maintain its texture and prevent it from becoming gummy.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread

Pairing side dishes with Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread can elevate your meal even further. Here are some ideas to complement this delightful bread.

1. Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese makes a refreshing side.
2. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted with garlic enhances the meal’s flavor profile.
3. Creamy Tomato Soup: This comforting soup pairs wonderfully when dipped into slices of cheesy bread.
4. Italian Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad featuring olives, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil complements the Italian theme well.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Delicious mushrooms stuffed with cheese and herbs make for an elegant appetizer that pairs nicely with this bread.
6. Spinach Artichoke Dip: Serve this warm dip alongside toasted slices of bread for a crowd-pleasing combination.
7. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables offers great variety alongside the bread.
8. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters made from zucchini add a nice crunch while balancing the softness of the bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread can be a joy, but small mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Ignoring the yeast proofing: Not allowing the yeast to activate can lead to dense bread. Always wait for it to froth before mixing it in.
• Skipping the kneading: Insufficient kneading won’t develop gluten, resulting in a tough texture. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Guessing measurements can throw off the recipe. Use a kitchen scale for precision.
• Forgetting to let dough rise properly: Rushing this step leads to flat bread. Ensure it doubles in size for the best texture.
• Overbaking or underbaking: Baking too long will dry out your bread, while underbaking leaves it doughy. Check for a golden color and hollow sound when tapped.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it fresh for up to 3 days.
• Place the wrapped bread in the refrigerator if you want it to last longer without mold.

Freezing Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread

• Wrap the cooled bread in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for maximum freshness.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; label the date on the foil for reference.

Reheating Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make it chewy.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over medium-low heat for a couple of minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread different?

This bread features a unique blend of Italian herbs and cheese, creating a soft, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches or on its own.

Can I customize my Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more cheese, switch up herbs, or even incorporate garlic for extra flavor.

How do I ensure my Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread rises properly?

Make sure your yeast is fresh and that you allow enough time for both rises. A warm environment helps speed up this process.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, but using whole wheat flour may result in denser bread. Consider mixing with all-purpose flour for better texture.

Final Thoughts

Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread brings delightful flavors into your home with its cheesy and herby goodness. It’s versatile enough to accompany various meals or be enjoyed alone. Feel free to customize with different cheeses or herbs based on your preferences!