If you’ve ever taken a bite of Subway’s Italian Herb & Cheese bread, you know it’s not just bread—it’s the star of the sandwich. Soft, fluffy, slightly chewy inside with a golden, cheesy, herb-crusted top… this iconic bread has made Subway sandwiches unforgettable.
The good news? You don’t need a commercial bakery oven to enjoy it at home. With the right technique, you can bake this bread from scratch in your own kitchen—fluffy, aromatic, and bursting with flavor. This copycat recipe has been carefully developed to give you the closest possible match to Subway’s famous Italian Herb & Cheese bread.
Why This Recipe Works
- Authentic flavor & texture: We use bread flour and vital wheat gluten to mimic Subway’s signature chewiness.
- Cheese topping that sticks: A special trick ensures the cheese doesn’t just melt—it bakes into a crisp, flavorful crust.
- Step-by-step tested method: Designed for beginners and advanced bakers alike.
- Customizable: Swap cheeses or herbs to suit your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups (440g) bread flour (for chewiness)
- 1 tbsp vital wheat gluten (optional, improves structure)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp salt
- 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) instant yeast
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 ¼ cups (300ml) warm water (around 110°F / 43°C)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese (or provolone/Monterey Jack blend)
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
2. Make the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, vital wheat gluten, and salt.
- Add yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a rough dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough
- Knead on a floured surface (or with a stand mixer using a dough hook) for 8–10 minutes.
- The dough should be smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky.
4. First Rise
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Loaves
- Punch down dough and divide into 2–3 equal portions.
- Roll each into a long sub-style loaf (around 12 inches). Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Second Rise
- Cover loaves loosely and let rise for 30–40 minutes.
7. Add Toppings
- In a small bowl, mix cheeses and herbs.
- Brush tops of loaves lightly with olive oil or water, then generously sprinkle with the cheese-herb mixture.
8. Bake
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 18–22 minutes until golden brown and cheese is bubbly.
9. Cool & Serve
- Let bread cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Perfect for sandwiches, garlic bread, or enjoying warm with butter.
Pro Tips for Success
✅ Use bread flour instead of all-purpose for the right chewiness.
✅ Add steam to your oven (place a tray of hot water on the bottom rack) for softer, bakery-style bread.
✅ Don’t rush the second rise—this ensures light, airy texture.
❌ Avoid adding cheese too early in baking—it may burn instead of crisp.
Variations You Can Try
- Cheese Lover’s Bread: Add sharp cheddar or pepper jack to the topping mix.
- Whole Wheat Version: Replace half the bread flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
- Stuffed Herb Bread: Roll in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted garlic before shaping.
Nutrition (Per Slice, Based on 12 Slices)
- Calories: ~180
- Carbs: 28g
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 4g
(Values vary depending on cheese type and portion size.)
Serving Ideas
This bread isn’t just for subs! Try it as:
- The base for homemade Subway-style sandwiches.
- Sliced and toasted as garlic bread.
- Small rolls for sliders or party snacks.
- A side for soups and salads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why isn’t my bread fluffy like Subway’s?
A: Most likely, the dough wasn’t kneaded enough or didn’t rise long enough. Proper gluten development is key.
Q: Can I make this without vital wheat gluten?
A: Yes—your bread will still be delicious, but slightly less chewy.
Q: What cheese does Subway actually use?
A: A blend of mozzarella and Monterey Jack, topped with Parmesan.
Q: Can I freeze the bread?
A: Yes! Wrap cooled loaves in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Final Thoughts
Now you know the secrets behind Subway’s iconic Italian Herb & Cheese Bread—soft, fluffy, and topped with that irresistible cheesy-herb crust. With this copycat recipe, you can bake it fresh at home, customize it with your favorite toppings, and take your sandwiches to a whole new level.
Bake once, and your kitchen will smell like an Italian bakery—you may never go back to store-bought again. 🍞✨
