Ingredients
Scale
For the Bread Dough
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)
- 1/2 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Egg Wash
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon milk or water
For the Herb and Cheese Topping
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan or romano cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Optional: a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast (If Not Using Instant Yeast)
- If using active dry yeast, dissolve it in the warm water with sugar and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- If using instant yeast, skip this step and mix directly with flour.
2. Make the Dough
- In a large bowl (or stand mixer bowl), combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
- Add warm milk, water, and olive oil.
- Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead for 8–10 minutes by hand or 5–6 minutes in a mixer with a dough hook until smooth and elastic.
3. First Rise
- Form dough into a ball and place in a lightly oiled bowl.
- Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
- Let rise in a warm spot for 60–75 minutes, or until doubled in size.
4. Shape the Loaves
- Punch down the dough and divide into 2 equal pieces (for sub loaves) or 6 equal portions (for rolls).
- Shape into logs or rolls and place on a parchment-lined baking tray.
- Flatten slightly to achieve the classic Subway-style shape.
5. Second Rise
- Cover shaped dough with a clean towel and let rise again for 30–40 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) during the last 15 minutes of rise.
6. Prepare the Topping
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg with milk to make egg wash.
- In another bowl, mix shredded cheese and herbs together.
7. Apply Egg Wash and Topping
- Brush the risen dough with egg wash.
- Sprinkle herb and cheese mixture generously over the top of each loaf or roll.
8. Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- The cheese should be melted and lightly browned.
9. Cool and Serve
- Let bread cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing or serving.
- Serve warm with butter, use for sandwiches, or enjoy plain.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1.5 hours rising time)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (or 1/6 of a roll/loaf)
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 2g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g