Table of Contents

Craving That Subway Bread? Here’s Where to Find It (or Something Close!)

You’re yearning for that distinctive, soft yet chewy Subway bread, aren’t you? That familiar aroma, the slightly sweet taste, and the perfect canvas for your favorite fillings… Well, while getting identical Subway bread outside of a Subway restaurant is impossible (trade secrets are real!), there are definitely avenues to explore and excellent alternatives to discover.

Essentially, you won’t find exactly Subway’s bread on a retail shelf. It’s specifically formulated and baked for their franchise. However, you can find similar styles of bread – often marketed as Italian bread, French bread, or sometimes even sandwich rolls – at various locations. Your best bets are:

Local Bakeries: This is your prime spot! Independent bakeries often pride themselves on fresh, high-quality ingredients and artisan bread that can rival (and often surpass) Subway’s offerings in terms of taste and texture. Talk to the baker! Explain what you’re looking for – that soft interior, slightly crisp crust, and subtle sweetness. They can guide you to their closest match or even bake something special to order.
Specialty Grocery Stores: Think Whole Foods Market, Trader Joe’s, or even your regional upscale grocery chains. These stores tend to have in-house bakeries with a wider selection of breads, including variations of Italian loaves and sandwich rolls that mimic the desired texture.
Some Supermarkets: While not all supermarkets are created equal, larger chains often have dedicated bakery sections with freshly baked breads. Look for Italian bread, hoagie rolls, or even brioche rolls (for a slightly richer, sweeter flavor). Be sure to check the “baked today” section for the freshest options.
Online Bakeries: Several online bakeries specialize in artisan breads and can ship directly to your door. While this might be a more expensive option, it opens up a world of possibilities for finding unique and delicious breads. Search for “Italian bread delivery” or “artisan sandwich rolls online.”
Bake Your Own!: This might seem daunting, but baking your own bread is incredibly rewarding. There are tons of Subway bread copycat recipes available online. This gives you complete control over the ingredients and allows you to tailor the bread to your exact preferences.

Ultimately, finding the perfect “Subway-like” bread is about experimentation. Try different options from different sources until you discover the one that satisfies your craving. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and taste-test before committing!

Understanding the Subway Bread Profile

Before diving deeper, let’s break down what makes Subway bread unique:

Soft Texture: It’s known for being soft and easy to bite into, not a hard, crusty bread.
Slightly Sweet Flavor: There’s a subtle sweetness that complements both savory and sweet fillings.
Chewy Interior: A pleasant chewiness contributes to the overall mouthfeel.
Uniform Shape: It’s typically long and rectangular, perfect for sandwiches.

These characteristics will guide your search for the ideal alternative.

Diving Deeper: Where to Look and What to Ask

Local Bakeries: Your Artisan Advantage

Your local baker is your secret weapon. Unlike mass-produced bread, they often use higher-quality ingredients and time-honored techniques.

Ask about: Their Italian bread recipe. Inquire about the flour type, the hydration level, and whether it contains any sweeteners.
Look for: Bread with a tight crumb (small, even air pockets) and a slightly golden crust.
Pro-Tip: Order a smaller loaf or roll to sample before committing to a larger purchase.

Specialty Grocery Stores: A Wider Selection Awaits

Stores like Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s curate their bread selection, offering more variety and potentially higher quality than standard supermarkets.

Explore: The artisan bread section. Look for Ciabatta rolls, French rolls, and variations of Italian loaves.
Read the Labels: Pay attention to ingredients. Look for breads made with unbleached flour and without excessive preservatives.
Consider: Their in-house bakery. Often, these bakeries offer freshly baked bread daily.

Supermarkets: The Convenient Option

While the quality can vary, supermarkets offer convenience and accessibility.

Head to: The bakery section. Look for Italian bread, hoagie rolls, and sandwich rolls.
Check the “Baked Today” Section: Freshness is key! Look for bread that was baked that day.
Be wary of: Excessively processed breads with long ingredient lists.

Online Bakeries: Expanding Your Horizons

For a wider selection and unique options, consider online bakeries.

Search for: “Artisan bread delivery,” “Italian sandwich rolls online,” or “gourmet bread online.”
Read Reviews: See what other customers are saying about the bread’s taste and texture.
Factor in Shipping Costs: Online bread can be more expensive due to shipping fees.

The DIY Route: Baking Your Own Subway-Style Bread

Baking your own bread allows for complete control and customization.

Search Online: Look for “Subway bread copycat recipe.” There are many variations available.
Start Simple: Choose a recipe with clear instructions and readily available ingredients.
Experiment: Adjust the recipe to your liking. Add a little more sugar for a sweeter flavor or a touch of olive oil for a softer texture.
Invest in a Bread Machine: For a hands-off approach, consider using a bread machine.

FAQs: Your Burning Bread Questions Answered

Here are 12 frequently asked questions to help you on your quest for the perfect Subway bread alternative:

Why can’t I just buy Subway bread directly from Subway? Subway bread is typically not sold directly to the public. It’s specifically formulated and supplied to their franchises.
What’s the key ingredient that makes Subway bread so soft? The specific formulation is proprietary, but high hydration (a higher ratio of water to flour) and the use of ingredients like dough conditioners contribute to its soft texture.
Is there a gluten-free version of Subway-like bread available? Finding a truly identical gluten-free version is challenging. However, many bakeries and grocery stores offer gluten-free sandwich breads that aim to replicate the soft texture. Look for breads made with tapioca starch or rice flour.
What’s the best way to store homemade bread to keep it soft? Store homemade bread in an airtight container at room temperature. Slicing it only as needed also helps to retain moisture. You can also freeze bread for longer storage.
Can I use a bread machine to make Subway-style bread? Yes! Look for bread machine recipes that specifically mimic Subway bread. You may need to adjust the ingredients slightly to achieve the desired texture.
What kind of flour is best for making Subway-style bread? All-purpose flour is a good starting point. Some recipes call for bread flour for a slightly chewier texture.
How can I get that slightly sweet flavor in homemade bread? A touch of sugar or honey will do the trick. Start with a small amount and adjust to your liking.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when baking bread? Over-mixing the dough, using water that is too hot or too cold, and not allowing the dough to rise properly are common mistakes.
How long does it take to bake homemade bread? Baking time varies depending on the recipe and the oven. Typically, it takes between 25 and 40 minutes.
Can I freeze bread dough to bake later? Yes! Freeze the dough after the first rise. When ready to bake, thaw it completely and let it rise again before baking.
Are there any regional variations of bread that are similar to Subway bread? Some regions may have specific types of sandwich rolls or Italian breads that are closer in texture and flavor. Explore your local bakeries!
What are some alternative uses for Subway-like bread besides sandwiches? It can be used for making French toast, garlic bread, or even bread pudding.

Finding bread that perfectly replicates Subway’s is a journey, not a destination. By exploring your options, experimenting with recipes, and asking the right questions, you’ll be well on your way to satisfying that craving. Happy bread hunting!