Oh, let me tell you about a recipe that completely transformed how I feel about homemade sandwich bread: my Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread. I’ve always loved that soft, chewy, cheesy bread you get at Subway—it’s like the perfect warm hug around your sandwich fillings. So, I set out on a mission to recreate it right in my kitchen, and let me tell you, the results were beyond satisfying. The first time I pulled it out of the oven, my kitchen smelled like an Italian bakery. My kids actually came running, thinking I had brought home takeout!
What makes this bread so special isn’t just the taste (though that’s amazing); it’s the whole experience of making it from scratch. Kneading the dough, sprinkling the herbs, watching it rise—there’s something so rewarding about it. And don’t even get me started on the cheesy, golden topping that crisps up just right. I remember making this for a weekend picnic once, and we barely made it out the door before half of it was gone. That’s how addictive it is!
This recipe is now a regular in my baking routine. Whether we’re making subs, grilled sandwiches, or even just enjoying it with a slather of garlic butter, this bread holds its own. Plus, it’s super customizable. Want more herbs? Go for it. Prefer it cheesier? Don’t hold back. The beauty of baking at home is making it your way.
What’s in Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread?
Bread Flour: The base of our bread—bread flour gives it the perfect chewy texture.
Sugar: Just a touch to activate the yeast and add a hint of sweetness.
Instant Yeast: This helps our dough rise beautifully and quickly.
Salt: To balance the flavors and enhance the herbs.
Olive Oil: For softness and moisture.
Warm Water: The liquid that brings our dough together.
Italian Herb Mix: A blend of oregano, basil, parsley, and thyme adds that signature flavor.
Shredded Cheese: I use a mix of mozzarella and cheddar, but you can also try provolone for a bolder flavor.
Garlic Powder: A pinch of this adds depth and that irresistible aroma.
Grated Parmesan (optional): For a sharp, salty kick on top.
Is Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread Good for You?
In moderation, absolutely! This bread can be part of a wholesome meal.
Bread Flour: Provides complex carbs and protein to fuel your day.
Olive Oil: A healthy fat that helps keep the bread moist without needing butter.
Herbs: Oregano and basil are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.
Cheese: Offers calcium and protein. Using a small amount still delivers flavor without going overboard.
Of course, if you’re watching sodium or calories, you can reduce the salt or cheese just a bit and still enjoy the experience. Whether you’re making it for meal prep, special occasions, or just because, it’s a bread worth baking!
Ingredients
– 3 1/2 cups bread flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
– 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon Italian herb seasoning (blend of oregano, basil, thyme, parsley)
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional, for topping)
How to Make Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread
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Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together bread flour, sugar, yeast, salt, and garlic powder. Then, slowly pour in the warm water and olive oil. Stir until the mixture forms a rough dough. -
Knead It Well
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If you’re using a stand mixer with a dough hook, knead for around 6 minutes on medium speed. -
Let It Rise
Place the dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours until it has doubled in size. -
Shape the Bread
Punch the dough down and divide it into 2–3 equal portions. Shape each one into a long, sub-style loaf. Place the loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. -
Add the Herbs and Cheese
Brush each loaf lightly with olive oil or water. Sprinkle the Italian herb mix evenly over the top, then generously add the shredded mozzarella and cheddar. If using Parmesan, sprinkle a little on each loaf for extra flavor and crunch. -
Second Rise
Loosely cover the loaves with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30–45 minutes until puffy. -
Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the loaves are ready, bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and lightly crisped. -
Cool Before Serving
Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps set the texture and keeps it from becoming gummy.
Baking Tips and Flavor Variations
– For extra cheesy goodness, mix some cheese into the dough before shaping.
– Want a garlic kick? Brush the loaves with garlic-infused olive oil before baking.
– Try using part whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste and added fiber.
– If you don’t have Italian herb mix, combine 1/4 teaspoon each of dried oregano, basil, thyme, and parsley.
This bread is best enjoyed fresh, but it also freezes well. I often double the batch and keep extra loaves in the freezer, so we’re never far from sandwich bliss. Whether you’re stuffing it with turkey bacon, roasted veggies, or just enjoying it with a smear of butter—this homemade version truly rivals the store-bought one.
How to Make Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread (Detailed Guide)
Whenever I set out to make this bread, the kitchen fills with the savory scent of herbs and melting cheese—it’s honestly irresistible. And the process? It’s straightforward and rewarding. Let me walk you through every step with care so you’ll have bakery-style results at home.
Step 1: Start with the Dough Base
Begin by gathering your dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, sugar, salt, instant yeast, and garlic powder. Stir everything together evenly. Slowly add the warm water and olive oil. Mix with a spoon or your hand until a sticky dough starts to form.
Step 2: Knead the Dough Until Smooth
Kneading develops the gluten, which gives the bread that chewy, soft interior. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead by hand for about 8 to 10 minutes. If you prefer using a stand mixer, knead it on medium speed with the dough hook for 5 to 6 minutes. The dough should become smooth, elastic, and bounce back slightly when pressed.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl. Cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Set the bowl in a warm, draft-free area. Allow it to rise for 60 to 90 minutes or until it doubles in size. I usually place mine in the oven (turned off) with the light on—it creates the perfect cozy environment for rising.
Step 4: Shape and Prepare for Topping
After the first rise, punch down the dough gently to release trapped air. Divide it into 2 to 3 equal portions, depending on how large you want your loaves. Shape each piece into a long sub-style loaf and lay them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Flatten the tops slightly so the toppings won’t slide off.
Step 5: Add the Signature Toppings
This is the fun part. Brush the tops of the loaves lightly with olive oil or a bit of water. Sprinkle the Italian herb mix generously over each loaf. Then, cover the surface with shredded mozzarella and cheddar. If you’re going for maximum flavor, a light dusting of Parmesan really takes things up a notch.
Step 6: Let the Bread Proof Again
Loosely cover the loaves with a kitchen towel and allow them to rise again for about 30 to 45 minutes. They should look puffy and feel airy to the touch. This second rise ensures a tender crumb and good volume.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the bread finishes its second rise. Bake the loaves in the center rack for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden, and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 8: Cool Slightly Before Slicing
Resist the urge to cut right into the hot bread! Let it cool for at least 10 minutes on a wire rack. This allows the inside to finish setting, so you’ll get nice, clean slices without any gumminess.
Sweet Tips and Fun Variations
– Add cheese to the dough: For extra cheesy flavor in every bite, mix 1/4 cup of shredded cheese into the dough before the first rise.
– Spice it up: Want more kick? Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the herb mix.
– Make mini loaves or rolls: Shape the dough into smaller portions to make dinner rolls or sandwich buns.
– Try garlic butter topping: Right after baking, brush the hot bread with a mix of melted butter and garlic powder for a rich finish.
I always feel proud pulling this bread out of the oven—its aroma and golden cheesy top never fail to impress. Whether you’re making a hearty sandwich or serving it as a side, this homemade Italian Herb & Cheese bread captures the magic of your favorite sub shop right in your own kitchen. Give it a go, and let me know what you stuff inside it!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this bread without a stand mixer?
Absolutely! This recipe works perfectly with just your hands and a good sturdy spoon. Start by mixing the ingredients with a spoon, then knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8 to 10 minutes. The key is to achieve a smooth, elastic texture, which you can definitely get by hand if you put in a little elbow grease.
2. How do I store leftover bread?
Once the bread has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place it in an airtight container or zip-top bag. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze it. Slice the loaf first, separate slices with parchment paper, and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
3. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour if needed. The texture might be slightly softer and less chewy than with bread flour, but the recipe will still work well. If you have vital wheat gluten on hand, adding 1 tablespoon per 3 cups of all-purpose flour can help mimic the higher protein content of bread flour.
4. What’s in Italian herb seasoning, and can I make it at home?
Italian herb seasoning typically includes dried basil, oregano, parsley, rosemary, and thyme. Some blends also contain marjoram or garlic powder. If you don’t have a premade mix, feel free to combine your own. Mix equal parts of the herbs you like best for a personalized touch that still delivers that classic flavor.
Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Brea
- Total Time: Rise Time: 90 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 sandwich loaves 1x
Description
This Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread brings the aroma and flavor of your favorite sandwich shop right into your kitchen. It’s soft on the inside, slightly crispy on the outside, and topped with a savory blend of herbs and gooey melted cheese. Whether you’re making homemade subs or just want a delicious snack, this bread is sure to impress every time.
Ingredients
3 ½ cups bread flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1 ½ teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon instant dry yeast
1 ¼ cups warm water
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
2 tablespoons mayonnaise (for brushing before topping)
1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
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In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine bread flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast.
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Add warm water and olive oil, then mix until a shaggy dough forms. Knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
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Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
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Punch down the dough and divide it into 2 to 3 equal portions. Shape each portion into a sub-style loaf and place on a lined baking sheet.
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Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes.
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Brush the tops of the loaves with mayonnaise. In a small bowl, mix Parmesan cheese, mozzarella, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder.
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Sprinkle the cheese-herb mixture generously over the loaves.
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Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the tops are golden and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
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Let cool slightly before slicing.
Notes
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For a spicier variation, add a pinch of crushed red pepper to the herb topping.
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You can shape the dough into rolls instead of long loaves for sandwich buns.
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If using active dry yeast, activate it in warm water with sugar first, then add to dry ingredients.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes