Copycat Subway Italian Herb and Cheese Bread – Bakery Fresh at Home

If you’ve ever walked into a Subway and been greeted by the irresistible aroma of their Italian Herb and Cheese Bread, you know exactly why it’s legendary. Soft inside, golden outside, topped with a cheesy, herby crust that adds flavor and crunch to every bite — it’s the unsung hero behind every great sandwich.

The good news? You don’t have to stand in line to enjoy it anymore. With this Copycat Subway Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe, you can recreate that bakery-fresh loaf right in your own kitchen. It’s warm, cheesy, buttery, and filled with the same savory aroma that fills Subway restaurants — but even fresher and more flavorful because it’s homemade.

The secret lies in three things: using instant yeast for a soft rise, brushing the dough with melted butter before baking, and topping it with a blend of herbs and cheese that bakes into a perfect golden crust. The result is everything you love about Subway bread, elevated to homemade perfection.

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Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) instant yeast
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

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Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy on top.
2. Make the Dough: Add olive oil, salt, and flour one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 45–60 minutes, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Loaves: Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 12-inch log and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Butter and Topping: Brush each loaf generously with melted butter. In a small bowl, mix together the shredded cheeses, oregano, basil, parsley, and garlic powder. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the loaves.
7. Second Rise: Cover loosely with a towel and let rise for 20–25 minutes, until slightly puffy.
8. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaves for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and the cheese topping is melted and crisp.
9. Cool Slightly: Let the bread cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm as sandwich bread or alongside soups and pastas.

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Tips & Tricks

• Perfect Softness: Brush the loaves with butter both before and after baking for extra flavor and softness.
• Flour Choice: Bread flour can be used for extra chewiness, but all-purpose works beautifully.
• Cheese Blend: Try mixing cheddar or provolone with mozzarella for extra depth of flavor.
• Freeze for Later: Slice and freeze for up to 2 months — just reheat in the oven before serving.

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Variations

• Garlic Parmesan Loaf: Add roasted garlic into the dough for an extra burst of flavor.
• Spicy Herb Bread: Mix crushed red pepper flakes into the topping blend.
• Whole Wheat Version: Substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
• Stuffed Cheese Bread: Roll shredded cheese inside the dough before shaping for a gooey surprise.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve this bread warm with butter or olive oil dip, or slice it lengthwise for the ultimate homemade Subway sandwich base. It pairs beautifully with marinara pasta, soups, or grilled meats. It’s also amazing toasted with garlic butter for a quick side dish.

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Storage Information

Store cooled bread in an airtight bag or container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly in foil and freeze. To reheat, bake at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes or until warmed through.

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FAQ

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant?
Yes, just proof it in warm water with sugar for 10 minutes before mixing.

How do I get the perfect Subway texture?
Let the dough rise fully and avoid over-kneading — the dough should be soft and airy.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but shredding fresh cheese helps it melt more evenly and gives a better crust.

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History / Fun Facts

The original Subway Italian Herb and Cheese Bread debuted in the early 2000s and quickly became a fan favorite. Its secret? A balance of softness, buttery flavor, and herbs that complement every sandwich filling — from turkey and ham to veggie subs.

Homemade versions of this bread have since become viral, and for good reason: the combination of herbs, cheese, and freshly baked bread is pure comfort. With this recipe, you can enjoy that same iconic Subway flavor — fresh, fragrant, and made from scratch right in your kitchen.