Introduction to Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Subway Copycat
When it comes to comfort food, few things rival the delight of freshly baked bread. Homemade bread, like our Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Subway Copycat, is not just a culinary experience; it's a labor of love. Why settle for store-bought when you can whip up a batch of warm, aromatic loaves right in your kitchen?
The process may seem a bit daunting at first, but the fragrance that fills your home as the dough rises is undeniably rewarding. Believe it or not, studies show that baking can even boost your mood—who wouldn't want that? This recipe allows you to customize flavors and ingredients, ensuring every bite is just right for your palate.
Plus, making your own bread means you know exactly what's in it—no artificial preservatives or mystery ingredients here. By using quality ingredients, like fresh herbs and real cheeses, you'll elevate your culinary game to new heights. And let's be honest, there’s something truly satisfying about savoring a slice of bread that you crafted yourself.
So, if you’re craving the satisfying taste of Subway’s Italian Herb and Cheese Bread but prefer to stay in, this recipe is perfect for you. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need!
For more tips on homemade bread, check out The Bread Bakers Guild.
Ingredients for Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Subway Copycat
Creating a delicious Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Subway Copycat at home is easier than you may think! Here’s a quick guide to the essential ingredients you’ll need.
Bread Starter Ingredients
To give your bread that perfect rise and texture, you’ll need a few simple pantry staples:
- 75 g all-purpose flour: The foundation for your starter.
- 0.5 teaspoon diastatic malt powder: Enhances flavor and aids fermentation.
- 3 g active yeast: Essential for leavening the bread.
- 60 ml lukewarm water: Vital for activating the yeast.
Dough Ingredients
To turn your starter into mouthwatering bread, gather the following:
- 600 g all-purpose flour: The bulk of your dough.
- 40 g butter: For richness and flavor.
- 17 g active yeast: A bit more for that perfect rise.
- 50 g granulated sugar: Balances the savory with a hint of sweetness.
- 15 g kosher salt: Enhances flavor while controlling yeast activity.
- 15 g diastatic malt powder: Reinforces that lovely chew.
- 340 ml lukewarm water: What binds it all together.
Bread Topping Ingredients
To finish your bread off with irresistible flavor, don’t skip these toppings:
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Melts beautifully and adds creaminess.
- 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese: A punch of umami and nuttiness.
- 3 tablespoons Italian seasoning: Brings all the aromatic herbs together.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For that classic Italian flavor kick.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter: Ensures the topping adheres and adds richness.
With these ingredients on hand, you’re well on your way to crafting your very own Italian Herb and Cheese Bread. Be sure to check out related recipes for perfecting your baking techniques!
Preparing Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Subway Copycat
Crafting your own Italian Herb and Cheese Bread reminiscent of Subway’s classic baguette is an incredibly rewarding endeavor. With just a bit of time and the right techniques, you'll find yourself whisked away to Italy with each bite. Here’s how to make it happen!
Create the Bread Starter
Start by whisking together your all-purpose flour, diastatic malt powder, and active yeast in a clean bowl. Next, gently stir in lukewarm water until just combined. Cover your mixture with a clean dish cloth and let it sit at room temperature for about 4 to 6 hours. This starter is essential; it adds depth and flavor to your bread, setting the foundation for deliciousness. If you're curious about the science behind starters, check out this in-depth guide.
Make the Dough
Once your starter has bubbled up beautifully, it’s time to combine it with the remaining ingredients for the dough. In a stand mixer, mix together all-purpose flour, butter, active yeast, sugar, kosher salt, diastatic malt powder, and remaining lukewarm water. If you prefer a smoother mix, consider dissolving the yeast in a bit of water first (you'll need to adjust the total amount of water accordingly). Knead this dough for about 8 minutes until it’s nice and elastic.
Knead and Rest the Dough
After kneading, let your dough rest for roughly 30 minutes. This is a crucial step as it helps the gluten relax, making it easier to shape later on. Gently fold the dough a few times during this resting period, allowing it to repose for about 10 minutes between folds. Repeat this twice more. Don’t forget to preheat your oven to 350°F before the final rest!
Shape the Baguettes
With your dough ready, it’s time to divide it into 4 to 5 portions for baguette-style loaves. An optional but beneficial tip: use a silicone baguette pan to help maintain the shape during baking. This ensures that your Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Subway Copycat not only tastes amazing but looks the part as well!
Apply the Toppings and Allow to Rest
Mix together Monterey Jack cheese, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder in a bowl for the delectable topping. Brush your shaped baguettes with melted butter and roll them in this scrumptious herb and cheese blend. Allow the loaves to rest for an additional 20 to 30 minutes, giving them time to rise to their full potential.
Bake to Perfection
Finally, create a steaming environment in your oven by placing an oven-safe bowl of water at the bottom. Bake your Italian Herb and Cheese Bread for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown. For an extra touch of perfection, finish with a quick broil of about 1-2 minutes, just until you achieve an even, golden crust. Once done, let your loaves cool under a clean dish towel to lock in that fluffy texture.
Enjoy your homemade bread as a perfect accompaniment to soups or as a base for your favorite sandwiches! Who needs takeout when you can whip up this delightful treat at home?
Variations on Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Subway Copycat
Adding Different Herbs and Spices
Elevate your Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Subway Copycat to new heights by experimenting with various herbs and spices. Consider adding fresh oregano or basil for a pop of color and flavor. If you like a little heat, red pepper flakes can make your bread sing! You might also try herbs like thyme or rosemary, which bring an aromatic quality that pairs perfectly with the savory cheese.
Cheese Variations for Extra Flavor
Get creative with the cheese! While Monterey Jack and Parmesan make a delightful base, consider swapping in mozzarella for that gooey texture or feta for a tangy twist. A blend of sharp cheddar can also add a punch of flavor, making your bread irresistible. Mix and match your favorites to find the perfect combination that complements your Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Subway Copycat experience.
For more inspiration, you can explore different cheese profiles here. Happy baking!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Subway Copycat
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Crust
To ensure a beautifully crisp crust on your Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Subway Copycat, start by adding an oven-safe bowl of water to your oven while baking. This creates steam, which helps with the crust formation. Additionally, don't skip the broiling step at the end; just a couple of minutes will give you that delightful golden-brown finish. Remember, the dough should rest in the oven for the best rise.
Storage Tips for Freshness
To keep your Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Subway Copycat fresh, wrap the loaves in a clean kitchen towel and place them in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps maintain moisture without making the crust soggy. For longer storage, freeze individual pieces wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for quick reheating. When you're ready to enjoy, simply toast them to bring back that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
For more baking insights, you can check out King Arthur Baking and The Kitchn.
Serving Suggestions for Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Subway Copycat
Pairing with Soups and Salads
The Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Subway Copycat is a fantastic companion for hearty soups and vibrant salads. Imagine dipping a warm, cheesy slice into a bowl of creamy tomato basil soup or savoring it alongside a crisp, Caesar salad drizzled with zesty dressing. The savory herbs and cheesy goodness enhance the flavors of your meal, creating a delightful experience. For some easy soup recipes, check out these options from Food Network.
Creating Delicious Sandwiches
Your homemade Italian Herb and Cheese Bread serves as the perfect canvas for crafting mouthwatering sandwiches. Layer it with your favorite fillings, such as turkey bacon, chicken ham, crisp lettuce, and ripe tomatoes. Consider adding a spread, like basil pesto or a tangy aioli, for an explosion of flavor. The warm, fluffy texture and cheesy exterior will elevate any sandwich creation, making lunchtime feel like a gourmet experience right at home.
Time Breakdown for Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Subway Copycat
Preparation Time
You'll spend about 30 minutes preparing the ingredients and mixing your dough. Take your time to measure everything correctly for the best results.
Resting Time
After preparing the dough, it will need to rest for 7 hours. This long rise is crucial—allowing the yeast to work its magic for maximum flavor!
Baking Time
Once you've shaped your dough, pop it in the oven for 25-30 minutes. The goal is to achieve that beautiful golden-brown crust that you love from the original Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Subway Copycat.
Now, while your bread is baking, you might want to scroll through your favorite cooking blogs to get inspired for a delicious sandwich filling!
Nutritional Facts for Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Subway Copycat
Calories
Indulging in a delicious loaf of Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Subway Copycat comes with a total of 867 calories. This makes it a hearty option for your sandwich base, perfect for a filling lunch or dinner.
Carbohydrates
With 150g of carbohydrates, this bread offers a generous serving of energy! Carbohydrates are essential for fueling your day-to-day activities, making this bread a satisfying choice.
Protein
Each serving of this delightful bread packs in 25g of protein, which is crucial for muscle repair and overall health. It’s a great addition to your meal, whether you’re enjoying it plain or stuffed with your favorite fillings.
For more insights into the nutritional benefits of bread, check out the Whole Grains Council for excellent resources!
FAQs about Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Subway Copycat
Can I freeze this bread?
Absolutely! You can freeze your Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Subway Copycat loaves once they’ve fully cooled. Wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They should stay fresh for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for that freshly-baked taste!
How do I store the bread for maximum freshness?
For best results, store your Italian Herb and Cheese Bread in a breadbox or an airtight container at room temperature. If you’re looking for an extra layer of freshness, you can wrap it in a clean kitchen towel. Keep in mind, this bread is best consumed within a few days, as homemade bread doesn’t contain preservatives.
What can I serve alongside this bread?
This delectable bread pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Think along the lines of a hearty soup, a fresh salad, or even some marinated olives. You could also slice it for sandwiches—whether it’s turkey bacon or chicken ham, the possibilities are endless! For an elegant touch, serve with a dipping oil infused with balsamic vinegar.
Conclusion on Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Subway Copycat
Creating this Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Subway Copycat at home is not just a recipe; it’s an experience. Indulging in warm, cheesy bread that rivals your favorite Subway option is worth the effort! Enjoy this delightful, aromatic bread as a side with your meals or simply on its own. Happy baking!
Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Subway Copycat
Equipment
- Stand Mixer
- Silicone Baguette Pan
- Pastry Brush
Ingredients
Bread Starter
- 75 g all purpose flour
- 0.5 teaspoon diastatic malt powder
- 3 g active yeast
- 60 ml water lukewarm
Dough
- 600 g all purpose flour
- 40 g butter
- 17 g active yeast
- 50 g sugar white, granulated
- 15 g kosher salt
- 15 g diastatic malt powder
- 340 ml water lukewarm
Bread Topping
- 0.5 cup monterey jack cheese shredded
- 2 tablespoon parmesan cheese freshly grated
- 3 tablespoon italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon butter melted
Instructions
Bread Starter
- Mix all the dry ingredients for the bread starter and then add the water.
- Cover the starter with a clean dish cloth and allow to sit at room temperature for 4-6 hours.
The Dough
- *Optional - mix yeast with ¼ cup (60ml) of the lukewarm water and allow to dissolve. This step is NOT to proof the yeast, just to dissolve it in order to mix easier.
- In a stand mixer, add all the ingredients for the dough with the starter that was set aside for 4-6 hours and knead for about 8 minutes.
- Let the dough rest for 30 minutes at room temperature, ideally around 25 - 30 degrees Celsius.
- Gently fold the dough a few times and then allow it to sit for 10 minutes. Repeat this step 2 more times (3 in total).
- Before you let the dough rest for the last time, preheat your oven to 350°F.
Baking and Toppings
- Divide the dough into 4-5 baguette style loaves.
- Combine all the topping ingredients (minus butter) and set aside. With a pastry brush, coat the dough in butter and roll in the herb and cheese mixture.
- Let rest for another 20-30 minutes until bread has expanded to desired size.
- Add an oven safe bowl full of water to the bottom of your oven along with the bread, and bake for 25-30 minutes (or until the bread is desired size and texture).
- Turn the oven to broil, watch closely and broil until the color is even, about 1-2 minutes.
- After the bread is done, cool them while draped in a clean dish cloth to keep the loaves super fluffy and moist.
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