Whole Wheat Hoagie Rolls Recipe for Soft, Tasty Sandwiches

Updated On: October 16, 2025

There’s something truly satisfying about biting into a freshly baked hoagie roll, especially when it’s made with wholesome whole wheat flour. These whole wheat hoagie rolls not only bring a nutty, rich flavor to your sandwiches but are also a healthier alternative to traditional white bread rolls.

Perfectly soft on the inside with a golden crust on the outside, these rolls are ideal for hoagies, subs, or even as dinner rolls. Whether you’re planning a casual lunch or a hearty dinner, homemade hoagie rolls elevate any sandwich experience.

Making your own bread may sound intimidating, but this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you’ll create bakery-quality rolls right in your own kitchen.

Plus, the use of whole wheat flour adds a boost of fiber and nutrients that will keep you energized. Ready to impress your family and guests with delicious, wholesome hoagie rolls?

Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy fresh, homemade hoagie rolls with a nutritious twist. Unlike store-bought versions, these rolls are made with 100% whole wheat flour, which means you get more fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

The dough is soft and easy to work with, and the rolls come out with a perfect balance of chewiness and fluffiness.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can customize the size of your rolls to fit any sandwich preference, and they freeze well for future use.

Plus, baking these rolls yourself means no preservatives or unnecessary additives, making it a wholesome choice for your family.

Finally, this recipe is beginner-friendly and includes helpful tips to ensure success. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie, you’ll enjoy the process and the delicious results!

Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups whole wheat flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Optional: sesame seeds or poppy seeds for topping

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Stand mixer with dough hook (optional but helpful)
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
  • Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
  • Cooling rack

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and honey. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and stir gently. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work.
  2. Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and salt. Add the olive oil and the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough starts to come together.
  3. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook on medium speed for 6-7 minutes.
  4. First rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.
  5. Shape the rolls: Punch down the dough gently and divide it into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a hoagie roll shape—elongated ovals about 6 inches long. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart.
  6. Second rise: Cover the rolls lightly and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy but not doubled.
  7. Preheat the oven: While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  8. Optional toppings: Brush the tops of the rolls with a little water or olive oil and sprinkle with sesame seeds or poppy seeds if desired.
  9. Bake: Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.
  10. Cool: Transfer the rolls to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing. This prevents the crumb from becoming gummy.

Tips & Variations

“For softer rolls, try adding 1/4 cup of milk or a dairy-free milk alternative to the dough in place of some water.”

Use bread flour: If you want a lighter texture, substitute half of the whole wheat flour with bread flour for extra gluten development.

Flavor boosts: Add herbs like rosemary or garlic powder to the dough for a savory twist.

Sweet rolls: For a slightly sweeter roll, increase honey to 3 tablespoons and add a teaspoon of cinnamon.

Freezing: These rolls freeze beautifully. Wrap cooled rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag.

Thaw at room temperature and refresh in a warm oven before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount Per Roll (1 of 8)
Calories 150
Carbohydrates 28g
Protein 5g
Fat 3g
Fiber 4g
Sugar 2g
Sodium 220mg

Serving Suggestions

These hearty whole wheat hoagie rolls are incredibly versatile. Use them for your favorite sandwiches like classic Italian subs loaded with salami, ham, provolone, and fresh veggies.

Or try them as the base for a vegan or vegetarian hoagie packed with grilled veggies, hummus, and sprouts.

They also make excellent dinner rolls alongside soups and stews. For a tasty snack, slice them in half and toast with garlic butter or your favorite vegan spread.

Looking for more wholesome meal ideas? Check out these delicious recipes:

Conclusion

Baking your own whole wheat hoagie rolls is a rewarding and delicious way to enhance your sandwich game while adding a nutritious boost to your meals. This recipe is simple enough for bakers of all skill levels and delivers rolls with a perfect balance of texture and flavor.

Using whole wheat flour means you’re incorporating more fiber and nutrients into your diet, making these rolls a wholesome choice for everyday meals.

Whether you’re making sandwiches for lunch, serving dinner with warm soup, or preparing for a party, these rolls are sure to impress. Plus, homemade bread brings a comforting, artisanal touch to your table that store-bought bread can’t match.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy the satisfaction of fresh, homemade hoagie rolls anytime you want!

📖 Recipe Card: Whole Wheat Hoagie Rolls

Description: These whole wheat hoagie rolls are soft, hearty, and perfect for sandwiches. They combine wholesome ingredients for a nutritious and delicious bread option.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT18M
Total Time: PT38M

Servings: 8 rolls

Ingredients

  • 3 cups whole wheat flour
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vital wheat gluten (optional, for better texture)
  • Sesame seeds for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water; let sit 5 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl, combine whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, salt, and vital wheat gluten.
  3. Add honey, olive oil, and yeast mixture to dry ingredients; mix until dough forms.
  4. Knead dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
  6. Punch down dough and divide into 8 equal pieces; shape each into a hoagie roll.
  7. Place rolls on a baking sheet, cover, and let rise 30 minutes.
  8. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  9. Brush rolls with water and sprinkle sesame seeds if desired.
  10. Bake rolls for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.
  11. Cool on wire rack before slicing.

Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 3 g | Carbs: 34 g

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Marta K

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