Subway Herbs Cheese Bread: A Delicious and Nutritious Choice

Subway Herbs Cheese Bread: Ever craved that warm, aromatic bread from Subway, the one that elevates your sandwich to a whole new level of deliciousness? That irresistible blend of herbs and cheese baked into a soft, chewy loaf? Well, you’re in for a treat! I’m going to show you how to recreate that iconic bread right in your own kitchen.

While Subway’s specific recipe remains a closely guarded secret, the concept of herb-infused cheese bread has a rich history, echoing the rustic loaves found in Italian and French bakeries for centuries. These breads, often baked in communal ovens, were a staple, providing sustenance and comfort to families. The addition of herbs and cheese transformed simple dough into something truly special, a culinary tradition that continues to delight us today.

What makes Subway Herbs Cheese Bread so universally loved? It’s the perfect combination of textures and flavors. The soft, slightly chewy interior contrasts beautifully with the crisp, golden crust. The aromatic herbs, like oregano, basil, and thyme, mingle with the savory, melted cheese, creating a symphony of taste that’s both comforting and satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Use it for sandwiches, as a side for soups and salads, or simply enjoy it warm with a pat of butter. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade bread with this fantastic recipe!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
• 3 ½ cups (420g) bread flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 ¼ cups (300ml) warm water (105-115°F / 40-46°C)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
• 1 ½ teaspoons (9g) salt
• 1 tablespoon (12g) sugar
• For the Herb & Cheese Topping:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons dried Italian herb blend (oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, marjoram)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup (100g) shredded Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup (50g) shredded provolone cheese (or mozzarella)
• Optional: ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparing the Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in the warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast might be old and you’ll need to start over with fresh yeast.
2. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the bread flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time. Be careful not to add too much flour, as this can make the bread tough. I like to use the “stretch and fold” method for kneading – it’s less tiring!
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This is crucial for developing the flavor and texture of the bread. A warm spot helps the yeast do its job efficiently.

Preparing the Herb & Cheese Topping:

1. Combine the Herbs and Spices: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, dried Italian herb blend, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture will infuse the bread with that signature Subway herb flavor.
2. Prepare the Cheese: Shred the Parmesan and provolone (or mozzarella) cheese, if you haven’t already. You can use pre-shredded cheese, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and has a better flavor.
3. Optional: If using fresh parsley, chop it finely. This adds a nice fresh element to the topping.

Shaping and Second Rise:

1. Punch Down the Dough: Gently punch down the risen dough to release the air. This helps to redistribute the yeast and create a more even texture.
2. Divide the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions.
3. Shape the Bread: Roll each portion of dough into a long, oval shape, about 12-14 inches long and 3-4 inches wide. Try to keep the thickness consistent for even baking.
4. Place on Baking Sheet: Place the shaped loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents the bread from sticking and makes cleanup easier. Leave some space between the loaves to allow for expansion during the second rise.
5. Second Rise: Cover the loaves with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let them rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until slightly puffed up. This second rise is important for creating a light and airy texture.

Baking the Bread:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make sure your oven is properly preheated for even baking.
2. Apply the Herb & Cheese Topping: Brush the tops of the risen loaves generously with the herb and oil mixture. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.
3. Sprinkle with Cheese: Sprinkle the herb-brushed loaves evenly with the shredded Parmesan and provolone (or mozzarella) cheese. Don’t be shy with the cheese – it’s what makes this bread so delicious!
4. Bake: Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on the bread towards the end of the baking time to prevent it from burning.
5. Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bottom of the bread from becoming soggy.
6. Optional Garnish: If using, sprinkle the cooled bread with chopped fresh parsley.

Serving Suggestions:

This homemade herb and cheese bread is delicious on its own, but it’s also perfect for making sandwiches, serving with soup or salad, or using as a base for pizza. I love to slice it and serve it with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of balsamic vinegar. It’s also great toasted and topped with avocado or ricotta cheese. The possibilities are endless!

Tips for Success:

• Use Bread Flour: Bread flour has a higher protein content than all-purpose flour, which helps to create a chewier, more structured bread.
• Don’t Overknead: Overkneading can result in tough bread. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, but not stiff.
• Proof in a Warm Place: A warm environment helps the yeast to rise properly. If your kitchen is cold, you can place the dough in a slightly warmed oven (turned off) or near a warm appliance.
• Adjust Baking Time: Baking times may vary depending on your oven. Keep an eye on the bread and adjust the baking time as needed.
• Let it Cool: Resist the urge to cut into the bread while it’s still hot. Letting it cool completely allows the crumb to set and prevents it from becoming gummy.

Variations:

• Add Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
• Use Different Cheeses: Try using different cheeses, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Asiago.
• Add Garlic: Add minced garlic to the herb and oil mixture for an extra garlicky flavor.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb and oil mixture for a little heat.
• Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the dough for a burst of flavor.

I hope you enjoy this recipe for homemade herb and cheese bread! It’s a fun and rewarding baking project that will fill your kitchen with the delicious aroma of freshly baked bread. Happy baking!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! This recipe for homemade Subway Herbs Cheese Bread is truly a game-changer. Forget those trips to Subway when you’re craving that signature flavor; now you can bake it fresh in your own kitchen, anytime you want. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water, and the taste? Well, let’s just say it’s even better than the original, because you made it with love (and maybe a little extra cheese!).

But why is this recipe a must-try? It’s simple: it’s incredibly easy to follow, uses readily available ingredients, and delivers that authentic Subway Herbs Cheese Bread taste that we all know and love. Plus, the satisfaction of creating something so delicious from scratch is simply unmatched. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this bread disappears once it comes out of the oven. Trust me, you’ll be making this recipe again and again.

And the best part? You can totally customize it to your liking!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Classic Sandwich Bread: Obviously, this bread is perfect for making your favorite Subway-style sandwiches. Load it up with your go-to fillings – turkey, ham, roast beef, veggies, the possibilities are endless! Don’t forget the lettuce, tomato, onion, and your favorite condiments.
* Garlic Bread Upgrade: Want to take your garlic bread to the next level? Slice this bread lengthwise, spread with garlic butter, and broil until golden brown and bubbly. The herbs and cheese already baked in add an extra layer of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
* Soup Companion: This bread is fantastic for dipping into your favorite soups and stews. The cheesy, herby flavor complements a wide variety of soups, from creamy tomato to hearty vegetable.
* Pizza Crust Alternative: Feeling adventurous? Use this bread as a base for a quick and easy pizza. Top with your favorite pizza sauce, cheese, and toppings, and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
* Cheese Pull Perfection: Add a bit more mozzarella cheese on top before baking for an even cheesier experience. This will give you that perfect cheese pull that everyone loves.
* Spice it Up: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dough or sprinkle some on top before baking.
* Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs. Rosemary, thyme, or oregano would all be delicious additions.
* Vegan Option: Substitute the milk and butter with plant-based alternatives and use a vegan cheese substitute to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of baking your own Subway Herbs Cheese Bread at home. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I know you’ll love it as much as I do.

So, what are you waiting for? Preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and get baking! And once you’ve created your masterpiece, don’t forget to share your experience with me. I’d love to see your photos and hear about your variations. Tag me in your posts and let me know what you think! Happy baking! I can’t wait to see your creations! Let me know in the comments how you liked it!