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Homemade Sub Rolls

Bakery-quality homemade sub rolls with crusty exteriors and soft, airy interiors. Perfect for Italian subs, cheesesteaks, and meatball heroes.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 8 sub rolls
Course: Bread, Sandwich, Side
Cuisine: American, Bakery, Italian-Inspired
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups 480g bread flour or all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups 355ml warm water 105–110°F
  • 2 1/4 tsp 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp olive oil extra virgin preferred
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp garlic powder optional
  • 2 tbsp cornmeal for dusting
  • 1 egg beaten, for egg wash
  • 2 tbsp sesame seeds optional topping
  • 1 tsp coarse sea salt for sprinkling
  • olive oil spray for oiling bowl and pans
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning optional flavor addition
  • 1 tsp onion powder optional flavor addition
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese optional flavor addition
  • 1 tbsp dried rosemary chopped, optional flavor addition

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Wooden spoon
  • Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)
  • Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
  • Baking sheets
  • Parchment paper
  • Wire racks
  • Sharp knife or razor blade

Method
 

  1. Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, mix warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix Dough: Stir in olive oil. In another bowl, whisk flour, salt, and garlic powder. Add to yeast mixture, stirring until shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead Dough: Knead on a floured surface 8–10 minutes (or stand mixer 6–8 minutes) until smooth and elastic.
  4. First Rise: Shape into a ball, place in oiled bowl, cover, and let rise 1–1.5 hours until doubled.
  5. Shape Rolls: Punch down dough. Divide into 8 equal pieces (about 3.5 oz each). Shape into 6–7 inch ovals. Place on parchment-lined sheets dusted with cornmeal.
  6. Second Rise: Cover rolls and let rise 45–60 minutes until puffy.
  7. Prepare to Bake: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place pan of hot water in oven for steam. Slash each roll lengthwise about 1/4 inch deep.
  8. Egg Wash & Bake: Brush with beaten egg, sprinkle with sesame seeds and salt if desired. Bake 18–20 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding. Cool on wire racks.

Notes

Make-Ahead: Rolls can be baked ahead and frozen. For extra crispiness, reheat in oven before serving. Flavor Boost: Add optional Italian seasoning, Parmesan, or rosemary for artisan-style rolls.