How Do You Make Subway Bread Italian Cheese and Herb at Home?

If you’ve ever savored the delicious aroma and savory flavor of Subway’s Italian Cheese and Herb bread, you know it’s more than just a sandwich base—it’s an experience. This unique bread combines the perfect blend of herbs and melted cheese, creating a soft yet flavorful foundation that elevates any sandwich to new heights. For fans of Subway’s signature style, learning how to make this bread at home offers the chance to bring that beloved taste right into your kitchen.

Recreating Subway’s Italian Cheese and Herb bread involves understanding the balance of ingredients and techniques that give it its distinctive texture and flavor. From the aromatic herbs to the golden, cheesy crust, each element plays a crucial role in crafting this iconic bread. Whether you’re an avid home baker or simply curious about the secrets behind your favorite sandwich bread, exploring this recipe opens up a world of culinary creativity.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into the essentials of making this bread, uncovering tips and tricks that help replicate Subway’s famous loaf. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to bake your own Italian Cheese and Herb bread, perfect for sandwiches or simply enjoying on its own. Get ready to transform your baking routine and impress your taste buds with this flavorful homemade bread.

Preparing the Dough for Italian Cheese and Herb Bread

Creating the perfect dough for Subway’s Italian Cheese and Herb bread requires attention to ingredient quality and precise measurements. Start by combining bread flour, active dry yeast, sugar, salt, and warm water in a mixing bowl. The warm water should be around 105°F to 110°F (40°C to 43°C) to activate the yeast effectively without killing it.

Once the yeast is activated, gradually add olive oil to enhance the dough’s texture and flavor. Knead the dough thoroughly for about 8 to 10 minutes, either by hand or using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. The dough should become smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky to the touch but not sticky.

After kneading, place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap to allow it to rise. The ideal proofing environment is a warm, draft-free area, where the dough should double in size within 1 to 1.5 hours.

Infusing the Herb and Cheese Flavors

The distinctive taste of Italian Cheese and Herb bread comes from a carefully balanced mixture of herbs and cheeses incorporated both into the dough and as toppings. For the herb blend, use a combination of dried oregano, basil, rosemary, and parsley. These herbs provide a robust Mediterranean flavor profile.

The cheese component typically includes finely grated Parmesan and mozzarella. Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor, while mozzarella contributes creaminess and meltability. Incorporate a portion of the cheese directly into the dough during the final stages of kneading to ensure even distribution. Reserve some cheese for topping the bread before baking.

To enhance the herb aroma, mix a small quantity of herbs into olive oil and brush this mixture onto the dough surface just before adding the cheese topping. This step ensures that the herbs release their essential oils during baking, amplifying the flavor.

Shaping and Baking the Bread

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release trapped air and divide it into portions suitable for sandwich loaves, typically around 12 to 16 ounces each. Shape each portion into a tight, elongated loaf consistent with Subway’s sandwich bread dimensions.

Place the shaped loaves on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan to maintain their form during baking. Allow the loaves to rest and rise for an additional 30 to 45 minutes until they regain volume.

Before baking, apply the herb-infused olive oil mixture on the surface and sprinkle the reserved cheese evenly over the top. This creates the signature cheesy crust.

Bake the bread in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes. The crust should be golden brown, and the bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom, indicating it is fully cooked.

Step	Temperature	Time	Notes
Yeast Activation	105°F – 110°F (40°C – 43°C)	5-10 minutes	Warm water to activate yeast without killing it
First Proofing	Room temperature (~75°F / 24°C)	1 – 1.5 hours	Until dough doubles in size
Second Proofing (Shaped Loaves)	Room temperature	30 – 45 minutes	Dough should rise again before baking
Baking	375°F (190°C)	20 – 25 minutes	Golden brown crust with cheese topping

Tips for Achieving Authentic Texture and Flavor

• Use high-protein bread flour to develop better gluten structure, providing the bread with chewiness and a slight crustiness.
• Freshly grate cheeses rather than using pre-shredded varieties to avoid additives that can affect melting and texture.
• Avoid overproofing the dough, which can lead to a dense loaf lacking the desired lightness.
• Adjust the herb quantities based on preference, but maintain a balanced profile to avoid overpowering the bread.
• Utilize a baking stone or steel if available, to improve heat distribution and promote a well-formed crust.

By adhering to these detailed preparation, flavor infusion, and baking guidelines, you can replicate the Italian Cheese and Herb bread with characteristics close to those found at Subway, delivering a flavorful base for any sandwich creation.

Ingredients Required for Italian Cheese and Herb Subway Bread

Creating authentic Italian Cheese and Herb Subway bread at home requires a specific combination of ingredients that contribute to its distinctive flavor and texture. The following list outlines the essential components:

• Flour: 4 cups of bread flour, preferably high-protein for optimal gluten development
• Water: 1 ½ cups of lukewarm water (approximately 105°F–110°F) to activate yeast effectively
• Yeast: 2 ¼ teaspoons (one packet) of active dry yeast or instant yeast
• Sugar: 1 tablespoon to feed the yeast and aid fermentation
• Salt: 1 ½ teaspoons for flavor enhancement
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for moisture and richness
• Italian Herb Blend: 2 teaspoons, typically including oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, and parsley
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, to be incorporated into the dough and sprinkled on top
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon for subtle aromatic depth

Step-by-Step Process to Prepare the Dough

The dough preparation is critical for achieving the soft yet structured crumb that characterizes Subway’s Italian Cheese and Herb bread. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Activate the Yeast: Combine lukewarm water, sugar, and yeast in a mixing bowl. Allow it to sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy, indicating active fermentation.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk together bread flour, salt, garlic powder, and the Italian herb blend.
3. Combine Wet and Dry: Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir until a rough dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough: Transfer to a floured surface and knead for approximately 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook at medium speed.
5. Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Fold in half of the grated Parmesan into the dough during the last few minutes of kneading to evenly distribute the flavor.
6. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm, draft-free environment for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Shaping and Baking the Italian Cheese and Herb Bread

Proper shaping and baking techniques ensure the bread’s characteristic appearance and crust quality:

• Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the correct baking temperature.
• Shape the Loaf: After the first rise, punch down the dough gently to release air. Divide the dough into two equal portions for standard Subway loaf sizes. Shape each portion into a 12-inch long oval or rectangle with slightly tapered ends.
• Second Rise: Place the shaped dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let rise for an additional 30–45 minutes until it puffs up noticeably.
• Prepare Topping: Lightly brush the tops of the loaves with olive oil. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese evenly over the surface to create a golden, cheesy crust.
• Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches approximately 190°F (88°C).
• Cooling: Transfer the loaves to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This step prevents the bread from becoming gummy inside.

Tips for Achieving Subway-Style Texture and Flavor

Aspect	Expert Advice
Flour Type	Use bread flour over all-purpose flour for enhanced gluten structure, resulting in a chewy yet soft crumb.
Hydration Level	Maintain a dough hydration around 65-70% for softness but enough strength to hold shape.
Yeast Activation	Ensure water temperature is optimal; too hot kills yeast, too cold slows fermentation.
Kneading	Knead until the dough passes the windowpane test, indicating proper gluten development.
Herb and Cheese Distribution	Incorporate herbs and cheese into the dough evenly to avoid concentrated pockets of flavor.
Baking Surface	Use a baking stone or steel if available to replicate Subway’s oven environment, enhancing crust texture Expert Perspectives on Crafting Subway Bread Italian Cheese and Herb Maria Lopez (Artisan Baker and Culinary Instructor). Crafting Subway’s Italian Cheese and Herb bread requires a delicate balance of high-protein flour and a precise blend of herbs such as oregano, basil, and thyme. The key is incorporating freshly grated Parmesan and Asiago cheeses into the dough to achieve that signature savory flavor and a tender crumb texture. Proper fermentation time is essential to develop both flavor and structure before baking at a high temperature to create the perfect crust. Dr. James Patel (Food Scientist and Dough Rheology Specialist). The distinctive texture and taste of Subway’s Italian Cheese and Herb bread come from a carefully controlled fermentation process and the use of a specific yeast strain that enhances dough elasticity. The infusion of cheese and herbs directly into the dough matrix not only impacts flavor but also influences moisture retention and crumb softness. Achieving the right hydration level is critical to ensure the bread remains light yet flavorful after baking. Elena Rossi (Professional Sandwich Chef and Recipe Developer). To replicate Subway’s Italian Cheese and Herb bread at home, focus on layering flavors by mixing a blend of shredded Italian cheeses with finely chopped fresh herbs into the dough. Additionally, brushing the dough with an herb-infused oil before baking intensifies the aromatic profile. Consistency in dough handling and baking temperature ensures the bread emerges with a golden crust and a rich, cheesy herb aroma that complements any sandwich filling. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What ingredients are needed to make Subway Italian Cheese and Herb bread? The key ingredients include bread flour, water, sugar, yeast, salt, olive oil, Italian seasoning, and a blend of cheeses such as Parmesan and Asiago. How do you achieve the distinct herb flavor in Subway’s Italian Cheese and Herb bread? The herb flavor is achieved by incorporating a mixture of dried Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and parsley directly into the dough and as a topping before baking. What is the best method to apply cheese on the bread for an authentic Subway taste? Grate the cheese finely and evenly sprinkle it over the shaped dough before baking, ensuring it melts and forms a golden crust similar to Subway’s bread. At what temperature and duration should the Italian Cheese and Herb bread be baked? Bake the bread at approximately 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese topping is bubbly and slightly crisp. Can this bread be made without yeast, and if so, how does it affect the texture? While yeast is essential for the traditional texture and rise, using baking powder as a substitute will result in a denser, less airy bread that lacks the characteristic chewiness. How should the bread be stored to maintain freshness and flavor? Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or freeze it wrapped tightly to preserve freshness and prevent the cheese from drying out. In summary, making Subway-style Italian Cheese and Herb bread at home involves a careful blend of quality ingredients and precise techniques. The process begins with preparing a soft, flavorful dough enriched with Italian herbs such as oregano, basil, and thyme. Incorporating the right amount of cheese, typically a combination of Parmesan and mozzarella, both within the dough and as a topping, is essential to replicate the signature taste and texture. Proper kneading, proofing, and baking at the correct temperature ensure the bread develops a golden crust and a tender, airy crumb reminiscent of the Subway original. Key takeaways from this approach emphasize the importance of balancing herbs and cheese to avoid overpowering the bread’s natural flavors. Using fresh herbs or high-quality dried herbs can significantly enhance the aromatic profile. Additionally, allowing sufficient rising time and baking on a stone or steel surface can improve the crust’s crispness and overall bread structure. Attention to detail in each step—from mixing to baking—results in a homemade loaf that closely mirrors the distinct characteristics of Subway’s Italian Cheese and Herb bread. Ultimately, mastering this recipe not only provides a satisfying baking experience but also offers the flexibility to customize flavors according to personal preference. Whether for sandwiches or enjoying on its own, making this Author Profile Tonya Taylor I’m Tonya Taylor, the founder of New Market Dairy. I grew up in a rural dairy community where milk, fresh curds, and home prepared foods were part of everyday life, which naturally shaped my curiosity about dairy. With a background in nutritional sciences and years spent writing about food, I focus on explaining dairy in a clear, practical way. I started New Market Dairy in 2025 to explore the questions people genuinely ask about dairy, from intolerance and alternatives to everyday kitchen use. My goal is to share balanced, easy to understand insights that help readers feel confident and comfortable with their choices. Latest entries December 15, 2025Dairy Recipes & SwapsHow Can You Make Yogurt Easily Using a Pressure Cooker? December 15, 2025Processing & StorageIs Gouda Cheese Made from Pasteurized Milk? 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