If you’ve ever found yourself craving that warm, flavorful loaf from your favorite sandwich shop, this Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread (Subway Copycat Recipe) Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Picture golden, aromatic bread kissed with Italian herbs and melty cheese, boasting a soft inside and just the right amount of crust. This is not just any bread; it’s a comforting, versatile delight that elevates your meals effortlessly. Whether you serve it as a side, a sandwich base, or just enjoy it plain, this recipe brings the warmth and tastiness of authentic Italian flavors right to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread (Subway Copycat Recipe) Recipe lies in its simple yet well-chosen ingredients. Each element plays a vital role, from creating that fluffy dough to layering on the irresistible cheese-herb topping that makes every bite memorable. These common ingredients are easy to find and surprisingly powerful when combined just right.
- 1 Tablespoon instant yeast: This quick-acting yeast helps the dough rise beautifully, ensuring a light and airy texture.
- 1 cup warm water: The perfect temperature wakes up the yeast and starts the fermentation process.
- 1 Tablespoon sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds just a hint of sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt: Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity for a perfect rise.
- 4 Tablespoons vegetable oil: Adds moisture and tenderness to the bread crumb.
- 2 3/4 cups flour: The backbone of dough, creating structure and chew.
- 1/4 cup colby jack cheese (shredded): Melts into a creamy, savory topping with a gentle tang.
- 1 Tablespoon parmesan cheese (grated): Offers a sharp, nutty punch that’s key to the bread’s irresistible crust.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the bread with warm, savory depth.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that defines the bread’s Italian flair.
How to Make Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread (Subway Copycat Recipe) Recipe
Step 1: Bloom the Yeast
Start by warming your water to a comfortable temperature — warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast. Add the instant yeast with the sugar and give it a gentle stir. Let it sit for a few minutes until it blooms visibly, indicating that your yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. This ensures even distribution, which is crucial so every bite is perfectly seasoned without any salty clumps.
Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the yeast mixture and vegetable oil into your bowl of flour and salt. Stir with a sturdy spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms, bringing everything together into one cohesive mass.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it well for at least 8 minutes. This step might seem like a workout, but it’s key to developing those gluten strands that give bread its chewy, satisfying texture.
Step 5: First Rise
Lightly oil a clean bowl, place your dough inside, and cover it with a towel or plastic wrap. Let it rest in a warm spot for about an hour until it doubles in size, a clear sign your yeast is happily fermenting and producing those bubbles we love in bread.
Step 6: Shape the Loaves and Second Rise
After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air pockets. Divide it into four equal pieces and form each into a long roll shape. Cover them again and let them rise for another round until they puff up nicely.
Step 7: Preheat Oven and Prepare Rolls
While your rolls are finishing their second rise, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Once ready, brush the tops of each roll lightly with vegetable oil to help the toppings stick and create that beautiful golden crust.
Step 8: Add the Herb and Cheese Topping
Sprinkle each roll generously with grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and finish with the shredded colby jack cheese. This blend melts and crisps up in the oven, adding irresistible flavor and texture.
Step 9: Bake Until Golden
Place your prepared rolls on a baking sheet and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Watch closely as they turn a perfect golden brown, releasing mouthwatering aromas. Let them cool completely before slicing to preserve that tender crumb inside.
Step 10: Slice and Enjoy
Slice your warm Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread into thick pieces and fill with your favorite sandwich ingredients, or simply enjoy plain with a pat of butter or olive oil dip. This bread truly shines any way you choose to savor it.
How to Serve Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread (Subway Copycat Recipe) Recipe
Garnishes
For a beautiful finishing touch, sprinkle a little extra parmesan or freshly chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving. This adds a fresh burst of color and amplifies that inviting herbal aroma.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with hearty soups, crisp salads, or Italian classics like pasta marinara or a rich minestrone. Its savory, cheesy flavor complements many dishes, making it a versatile side that’s always appreciated.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform your kitchen gathering by serving sliced rolls as a bruschetta base, topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Or create a bread basket centerpiece with butter, olive oil, and herb-infused dipping oils for guests to enjoy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the bread soft and fresh, perfect for the next day’s sandwiches or snacking.
Freezing
If you want to preserve your Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread for longer, freeze the fully cooled loaves wrapped well in foil and then placed in a freezer bag. They can keep for up to three months, ready to be revived whenever you crave them.
Reheating
To enjoy the bread warm again, simply unwrap and bake it in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 10 minutes. This will restore its crisp crust and soft interior, almost like freshly baked. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread chewy or tough.
FAQs
Can I use regular active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, you can substitute active dry yeast, but you’ll need to proof it in warm water for about 5 to 10 minutes until foamy before adding it to the flour mixture. This extra step ensures your yeast is active and ready.
Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?
While this recipe is designed for traditional wheat flour, you could experiment with gluten-free flour blends that are suitable for bread baking, though texture and rise may vary. Adding xanthan gum might help mimic gluten’s elasticity.
Can I add other cheeses instead of colby jack?
Definitely! Mozzarella, cheddar, or even a sharp asiago can work beautifully. Choose cheeses that melt well and complement the herbs for the best flavor experience.
How long does the dough need to rise if my kitchen is cooler?
In cooler environments, dough may take longer to rise, sometimes up to 2 hours. You can place the dough in a slightly warm spot or inside an oven with just the light on to create a cozy environment for proofing.
Can I make the dough in a bread machine?
Yes, you can use a bread machine to mix and knead the dough, then transfer it to a bowl for rising and shaping. Just follow your machine’s settings for dough mode and continue with the recipe from the rising step onward.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread (Subway Copycat Recipe) Recipe is a true joy to make and a delight to eat. It brings the comforting warmth of fresh-baked bread infused with herbs and cheese right into your home kitchen. Once you try it, you’ll find it hard to go back to store-bought loaves. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy one of the most satisfying homemade breads you’ll ever taste.
