By Dr. Leah Alexander | Published on December 27, 2023 | Last Updated on February 25, 2024
Jimmy Johns bread is a classic recipe that has been around for generations. It is a simple yet delicious bread recipe that is sure to please anyone who tries it.
This recipe is easy to follow and can be made in no time at all. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a tasty loaf of Jimmy Johns bread that your family and friends will love.
Read on to learn more about this classic recipe, including what it tastes like, the ingredients you will need, and how to store any leftovers.
What is Jimmy Johns Bread Recipe?
Jimmy John’s is a popular American sandwich restaurant chain known for its quick delivery service and a menu focused on subs and sandwiches.
Jimmy Johns bread is a traditional bread recipe that is made with just a few simple ingredients. It is a soft and light loaf of bread that can be served with any meal. This recipe is an easy one to make and is perfect for those who are looking for a delicious, homemade bread recipe.
What Does it Taste Like?
Jimmy Johns bread has a soft, light texture and a slightly sweet flavor. The slight sweetness of the bread comes from the sugar that is added to the recipe.
It pairs well with savory dishes, such as sandwiches and soups. It also makes a great accompaniment to sweet dishes, such as jams and jellies.
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Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, divided: This is the primary dry ingredient for the Jimmy John’s bread recipe. Flour provides the structure and texture to the bread. The division of the flour indicates that it is added at different stages of the recipe, likely to control the consistency and develop the dough gradually.
- 1/2 tablespoon active dry yeast: Yeast is a crucial ingredient in bread recipes as it acts as a leavening agent. It ferments the sugars in the dough, producing carbon dioxide gas, which causes the bread to rise and gives it a light and airy texture. Active dry yeast needs to be activated in warm water before incorporating it into the dough.
- 3/4 cup warm water: Warm water is used to activate the yeast. The temperature is important, as it needs to be warm enough to activate the yeast but not too hot to kill it. Activating the yeast is essential for proper fermentation and rising of the dough.
- 1/2 tablespoon sugar: Sugar serves as food for the yeast. During the fermentation process, yeast consumes sugar and produces carbon dioxide, which causes the dough to rise. Sugar also adds a hint of sweetness to the bread.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Salt not only enhances the flavor of the bread but also regulates yeast activity. It strengthens gluten structure, controls fermentation, and improves the overall texture of the bread. It plays a crucial role in balancing the sweetness of the sugar and enhancing the savory aspects of the bread.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus a little extra for greasing: Olive oil contributes to the moisture and richness of the bread. It also adds a subtle flavor. Additionally, oil helps in achieving a softer crumb and crust. Using a bit of extra olive oil for greasing the dough or pan prevents sticking and adds extra flavor and moisture during baking.
Directions
Making Jimmy Johns bread is simple and can be done in a few easy steps.
Step 1. Activate the Yeast:
a. In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar.
b. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water-sugar mixture.
c. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy and activates.
Step 2. Prepare the Dough:
a. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour and salt.
b. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the activated yeast mixture.
c. Add olive oil to the bowl.
Step 3. Mix and Knead:
a. Stir the ingredients together until a dough forms.
b. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface.
c. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, gradually incorporating the remaining 1/4 cup of flour until smooth and elastic.
Step 4. Rise:
a. Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning the dough to coat it with oil.
b. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Step 5. Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 6. Shape the Dough:
a. Punch down the risen dough to release any air bubbles.
b. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a loaf.
Step 7. Second Rise:
Place the shaped dough onto a greased baking sheet.
Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
Step 8. Bake:
a. Brush the top of the risen dough with a little olive oil.
b. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Step 9. Cool:
Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Step 10. Enjoy:
Slice the bread and savor the satisfaction of enjoying your homemade Jimmy John’s-style bread! Perfect for sandwiches, snacks, or any occasion.
Tips
• Make sure to measure your ingredients carefully for best results.
• If you find the dough is too wet, add a bit more flour. If it is too dry, add a bit more water.
• Use a pastry blender or a food processor to easily mix the butter into the dry ingredients.
• Use a serrated knife to evenly slice the bread.
• If desired, you can brush the top of the loaf with melted butter before baking for a golden brown crust.
• Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Information
One slice of Jimmy Johns bread contains 270 kcal, 8g fat, 45g carbohydrates, and 5g protein. This homemade version will allow you to control the ingredients and portions for a healthier choice.
What to Serve with Jimmy Johns Bread?
Jimmy Johns bread is a versatile recipe that can be served with just about any meal. Here are some delicious ideas for serving this bread:
• Serve it with soup or salad for a light and flavorful meal.
• Spread it with butter or jam for a tasty snack.
• Toast it and serve it with eggs for breakfast.
• Slice it and top with cheese and ham for a quick and easy sandwich.
• Serve it with a side of butter and honey for a sweet and savory treat.
How to Store Leftover Jimmy Johns Bread?
Leftover Jimmy Johns bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you will not be eating the bread within that time frame, you can freeze it for up to 1 month.
To freeze, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a resealable freezer bag.
What Other Substitute Can I Use in Jimmy Johns Bread?
You can substitute the ingredients in this recipe to customize the flavor and texture of the bread. Here are some ideas for substitutions:
• Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a heartier loaf of bread.
• Substitute honey or agave nectar for the sugar for a touch of sweetness.
• Use olive oil instead of butter for a healthier option.
• Add herbs, spices, or dried fruit for a flavorful addition.
Jimmy Johns Bread Recipe
Equipment
- 2 mixing owls
- baking sheet
- paper towel
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour divided
- 1/2 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1/2 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil plus a little extra for greasing
Instructions
Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar.
- Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water-sugar mixture.
- Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy and activates.
Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour and salt.
- Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the activated yeast mixture.
- Add the olive oil to the bowl.
Mix and Knead:
- Stir the ingredients together until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface.
- Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes, gradually incorporating the remaining 1/4 cup of flour until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Rise:
- Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning the dough to coat it with oil.
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Shape the Dough:
- Punch down the risen dough to release any air bubbles.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a loaf.
Second Rise:
- Place the shaped dough onto a greased baking sheet.
- Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
Bake:
- Brush the top of the risen dough with a little olive oil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cool:
- Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Enjoy:
- Slice the bread and enjoy your homemade Jimmy John’s-style bread!
Notes
- Make sure to measure your ingredients carefully for best results.
- If you find the dough is too wet, add a bit more flour. If it is too dry, add a bit more water.
- Use a pastry blender or a food processor to easily mix the butter into the dry ingredients.
- Use a serrated knife to evenly slice the bread.
- If desired, you can brush the top of the loaf with melted butter before baking for a golden brown crust.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done baking when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Can I use self-rising flour instead of all-purpose flour?
No, self-rising flour should not be used in this recipe as it contains baking powder and salt.
Is Jimmy Johns bread vegan?
No, Jimmy Johns bread is not vegan as it contains butter. To make it vegan, you can substitute the butter with a vegan alternative, such as coconut oil or olive oil.
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the bread ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
How do I store leftover bread?
Leftover bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 1 month.
Can I substitute the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the sugar with honey, agave nectar, or any other sweetener of your choice.
Can I add other ingredients to the bread?
Yes, you can add herbs, spices, dried fruit, or other ingredients to the bread for a flavorful addition.
Conclusion
Jimmy Johns bread is a classic recipe that is sure to please anyone who tries it. It is a simple yet delicious bread recipe that is made with just a few simple ingredients. This recipe is an easy one to make and is perfect for those who are looking for a tasty, homemade bread recipe.
With just a few ingredients and a few easy steps, you can make a delicious loaf of Jimmy Johns bread that your family and friends will love.
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Dr. Leah Alexander, M.D., is a board-certified Pediatrician in New Jersey and has been working at Elizabeth Pediatric Group of New Jersey since 2000.
She also has a passion for culinary arts that extends beyond the medical realm. After completing culinary school at the French Culinary Institute, she started Global Palate, LLC, a catering firm, in 2007. She ran her own six-year-old catering company and served small group parties as an owner and executive chef.
