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How to Make Jimmy John’s Bread Recipe at Home

By: Author Better Baker

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Categories Copycat Recipes, My Favorite Recipes, Welcome To The Blog!

With this Jimmy Johns bread recipe, you can bake your own at home! 

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jimmy johns bread recipe

Do you ever find yourself craving that soft, chewy bread from Jimmy John’s? It’s the foundation of their delicious sandwiches, and there’s just something about its texture and flavor that’s irresistible. After a little experimentation,, I’ve perfected a Jimmy Johns bread recipe that you can easily make at home. Whether you’re building your own gourmet sandwiches or just want fresh bread to enjoy, this recipe is a winner.

What Is Jimmy John’s Bread?

Craving the soft, chewy bread from Jimmy John’s? It’s the perfect base for their iconic sandwiches, with its tender crumb and subtle sweetness that complements any filling.

After testing and tweaking, I’ve nailed a copycat recipe you can make at home. This bread combines the lightness of French bread with the softness of a dinner roll—perfect for sandwiches or enjoying fresh from the oven.

Key Equipment or Tools

To make this bread successfully, you’ll need the following tools:

  • Stand Mixer: A stand mixer with a dough hook makes kneading effortless, but you can also knead by hand if you prefer.
  • Kitchen Scale: Precise measurements ensure consistency.
  • Baking Sheet or French Bread Pan: A regular baking sheet works, but a French bread pan will help maintain the bread’s iconic shape.
  • Pastry Brush: For brushing the dough with a light egg wash or water for a perfect crust.
  • Thermometer: A kitchen thermometer is helpful to check water and dough temperatures.

jimmy johns bread recipe

How to Make Jimmy Johns Bread Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dough

Combine warm water, yeast, and sugar in a mixing bowl. Let it sit until foamy—this ensures your yeast is activated. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Knead with the dough hook until smooth and elastic.

First Rise

Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Shape the Loaves

Divide the dough into 6 equal portions (about 150g ea, depending on your desired loaf size). Roll each into a log shape and place them on a baking sheet or this perforated baguette pan.

Second Rise

Let the shaped loaves rise again for about 30-45 minutes. They should look puffy and almost double in size.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly browned and hollow-sounding when tapped.

Tips for Success with Jimmy John’s Bread Recipe

  1. Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale to get the same results every time. 
  2. Control the Proofing Time: Over-proofing can cause larger air pockets, which we want to avoid for a close crumb.
  3. Steam Is Key: Use a spray bottle to spritz the dough with water for a thinner crust.

Ingredient Notes

  • Flour: Bread flour gives the bread a nice chew, but all-purpose flour works too.
  • Yeast: Active dry yeast works best, but instant yeast is a suitable alternative.
  • Sweetener: A small amount of sugar helps feed the yeast and balances the flavor.

Variations and Finishing Ideas

  • Sesame Seed Loaves: Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before baking for a nutty crunch.
  • Herbed Bread: Mix dried herbs like oregano or rosemary into the dough for added flavor.
  • Mini Loaves: Make smaller loaves for individual sandwiches or sliders.

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

  • Storing: Wrap the bread in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: These loaves freeze beautifully. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven for a fresh taste.

jimmy johns bread recipe

Printable Recipe Card for Jimmy Johns Bread Recipe

Click the link below for a printable version of this recipe with step-by-step instructions! 

jimmy johns bread recipe

Jimmy John’s Bread Recipe

Here is a Jimmy John’s-inspired bread recipe that you can easily make at home. It has a soft, chewy interior and a lightly crisp exterior, which is perfect for sandwiches.
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Ingredients

  • 360 g bread flour
  • 5.9 g salt about 1 ½ teaspoons
  • 12 g sugar about 1 tablespoon
  • 8 g active dry yeast about 2 ¼ teaspoons
  • 245 ml warm water 110°F/43°C
  • 15 g olive oil about 1 tablespoon

Instructions

Activate the Yeast

  • In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. Make sure your yeast is bubbly and active so that your bread will rise perfectly!

Mix the Dough

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
  • Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-6 minutes. Make sure to scrape the sides of the bowl if mixing by hand.

First Rise

  • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat the sides of the bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Shape the Loaves

  • Punch down the dough and divide it into 4 equal pieces.
  • Roll each piece into a log, about 10 inches long. Place them onto a perforated baguette mold or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Second Rise

  • Cover the shaped loaves with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 45 minutes until puffy and nearly doubled in size.

Bake to Golden Brown

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the loaves in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.
  • Cool the Bread
  • Transfer the loaves to a wire rack to cool. This ensures the crispy crust stays intact.

Notes

Storage: Store at room temperature in a paper bag for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze tightly wrapped loaves for up to 3 months.
Leftover Bread Tip: If you have leftover loaves, use them to make garlic bread by brushing with butter and garlic, then toasting lightly.

Will You This Jimmy John’s Bread Recipe?

Have you tried making Jimmy John’s-inspired bread at home? Share your results in the comments below! I’d love to hear about your favorite sandwich creations with this bread. If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out my other bread recipes for more baking inspiration.

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