Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread: How to Make It Perfect

Have you ever wondered how to make the perfect Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread at home? If you’re a fan of Subway’s famous bread, you’re in for a treat! This recipe will guide you through creating a delicious, aromatic loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches or enjoying on its own. Let’s dive in and discover the secrets to making this bread just right.

This Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread recipe is special for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly flavorful, thanks to the blend of herbs and cheese. Secondly, it’s versatile—you can enjoy it as a side dish, use it for sandwiches, or even serve it as an appetizer. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make, even if you’re new to baking.

Time Requirement

• Preparation Time: PT10M
• Cooking Time: PT25M
• Total Time: PT35M

Difficulty Level

The difficulty level of this recipe is beginner-friendly. With clear instructions and simple techniques, anyone can make this delicious bread.

Essential Ingredients

To make this Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread, you’ll need the following key ingredients:

1. All-Purpose Flour:  675g (for both the starter and the dough)
2. Diastatic Malt Powder:
   • Amount: 20g (for both the starter and the dough)
   • Importance: Enhances the rise, texture, and crust color of the bread.
   • Advice: While not essential, it significantly improves the bread’s quality. You can find it online or in specialty stores1.
3. Active Dry Yeast:
   • Amount: 20g (for both the starter and the dough)
   • Importance: Crucial for the bread to rise.
   • Advice: Ensure your yeast is fresh and active. You can substitute with instant yeast, but the amounts will differ.
4. Water:
   • Amount: 400ml (lukewarm, for both the starter and the dough)
   • Importance: Activates the yeast and hydrates the dough.
   • Advice: Use lukewarm water to help activate the yeast without killing it.
5. Butter:
   • Amount: 50g
   • Importance: Adds richness and flavor to the bread.
   • Advice: Melt the butter before adding it to the dough to ensure even distribution1.
6. Sugar:
   • Amount: 50g (granulated white sugar)
   • Importance: Provides flavor and helps activate the yeast.
   • Advice: You can adjust the amount slightly based on your preference for sweetness.
7. Kosher Salt:
   • Amount: 15g
   • Importance: Enhances the overall flavor of the bread.
   • Advice: Be careful not to add too much, as it can inhibit the yeast’s activity.
8. Monterey Jack Cheese:
   • Amount: ½ cup (shredded)
   • Importance: Adds a cheesy flavor and texture to the bread.
   • Advice: You can substitute with other mild cheeses like Muenster, Havarti, or Gouda.
9. Parmesan Cheese:
   • Amount: 2 tablespoons (freshly grated)
   • Importance: Provides a sharp, savory flavor.
   • Advice: Freshly grated Parmesan has a better flavor than pre-grated versions.
10. Italian Seasoning:
    • Amount: 3 tablespoons
    • Importance: Adds a blend of herbs that give the bread its distinctive flavor.
    • Advice: You can make your own blend using dried oregano, thyme, basil, rosemary, and sage.
11. Garlic Powder:
    • Amount: 1 teaspoon
    • Importance: Enhances the savory flavor of the bread.
    • Advice: Adjust the amount based on your preference for garlic flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

• Whole Wheat Flour: For a healthier option, you can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
• Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh herbs on hand, feel free to use them instead of dried herbs for a more vibrant flavor.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with other types of cheese like Asiago, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorites.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps to make your Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dough: Add flour, salt, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder (if using) to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
5. Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the top of the loaf with grated cheese and additional Italian seasoning.
7. Second Rise: Let the dough rise for another 15-20 minutes.
8. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
9. Cool: Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Tips for Cooking and Preparing

• Yeast Activation: Make sure your water is warm but not hot, as hot water can kill the yeast.
• Kneading: Don’t over-knead the dough. Knead just enough to develop the gluten.
• Rising: Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for the best results.

Assembly

Once your bread is cooled, it’s time to assemble and enjoy! Here are some tips for building the perfect slice:

1. Slice: Use a sharp knife to slice the bread into even pieces.
2. Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! You can spread butter, jam, or cream cheese on your slices. For a savory option, try adding avocado, tomatoes, or your favorite deli meats.
3. Presentation: Arrange your slices on a platter for a beautiful presentation. You can also toast the bread for added crispiness.

Tips for Presentation

• Garnish: Add a sprinkle of herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor and visual appeal.
• Serving: Serve the bread warm for the best texture and taste.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Storage

To keep your Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can refrigerate it for up to a week.

Make-Ahead Tips

• Freezing: You can freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing.
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw the bread overnight in the fridge, then warm it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make this recipe your own:

1. Herbs and Spices: Add dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for extra flavor. You can also sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
2. Seeds and Nuts: Incorporate seeds like poppy seeds, anise seeds, or chia seeds for added texture and nutrition. Nuts like walnuts or almonds can also be a great addition.
3. Fruit: For a sweet twist, mix in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries.

Conclusion

This Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for anyone looking to add more variety to their baking routine. Whether you enjoy it as a snack, a side dish, or a base for sandwiches, this bread is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, grab your ingredients and get baking—your taste buds will thank you!

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cottage cheese for this recipe?

Yes, you can use low-fat or fat-free cottage cheese. However, full-fat cottage cheese will give you the best flavor and texture.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free flour or almond flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour to make this recipe gluten-free.

Can I freeze the bread?

Yes, you can freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

What are the health benefits of cottage cheese bread?

Cottage cheese bread is high in protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. It’s also a good source of calcium, which is important for bone health.

How long does it take to make this bread?

From start to finish, it takes about an hour to make this bread, including preparation and baking time.

Can I add more flavors to the bread?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with herbs, spices, seeds, nuts, and dried fruits to customize the flavor to your liking.

With these tips and variations, you’re all set to make and enjoy your own Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread. Happy baking!