The original Jimmy Johns bread recipe is almost impossible to mimic. The popular sandwich chain is known for its fresh and fast delivery service. Their sandwich bread stands out for its unique texture and flavor.
It is soft yet slightly chewy, with a thin crust and a distinct flavor. While they don’t disclose their exact recipe, you can try to replicate it with our helpful tips.
Copycat Jimmy Johns Bread Recipe
Ingredients
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
– 1 ½ teaspoons salt
– 1 ½ cups warm water
Instructions
Activate the Yeast
- Combine warm water and sugar in a bowl. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.
Combine Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
Knead the Dough
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Rise
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
Shape and Second Rise
- Punch down the dough, divide it into two portions, and shape each into a loaf. Place the loaves on a baking sheet, cover them, and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes.
Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaves for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown. You can also brush them with melted butter for a softer crust.
Cool and Enjoy
- Allow the bread to cool before slicing. Once cooled, you can use it to make your own sandwiches similar to those at Jimmy John’s.
Tips for Perfecting Our Jimmy Johns Bread Recipe
Our Jimmy Johns bread recipe is simple and easy to follow. Consider these tips to give it an authentic feel and taste.
- High Gluten Flour
Using the right flour is crucial for achieving the chewy texture of Jimmy Johns bread. Use bread flour with a higher protein content, ideally 12-14%. The extra gluten in the flour will contribute to the bread’s structure and chewiness.
- Steam in the Oven
Steam helps create a thin, crispy crust. There are a few methods to introduce steam:
– Place a pan of hot water on the bottom rack of the oven while preheating.
– Spray water into the oven with a spray bottle during the first few minutes of baking.
– Consider using a Dutch oven with a lid for the initial stage of baking to trap moisture.
- Baking Stone or Steel
A baking stone or steel promotes even heat distribution. Preheat the stone or steel in the oven and transfer the shaped loaves onto it. This enhances crust development and replicates the professional baking environment found in commercial ovens.
- Quick Rise
You can mimic the Jimmy Johns bread recipe quick-rise method by using a slightly higher amount of yeast than typical bread recipes. This expedited rising process contributes to the bread’s distinct texture. Aim for a rise time of around 1-2 hours for the initial proofing.
- Consistent Size and Shape
Uniformity in size and shape is essential for a polished appearance. Weigh the dough portions to ensure equal sizes and shape them carefully. This attention to detail contributes to even baking and an aesthetically pleasing final product.
- Egg Wash or Butter Brush
Brush the shaped loaves with an egg wash or melted butter before baking for a glossy finish. This step enhances the appearance and adds a subtle richness to the crust. You can experiment with different ratios of egg to water or milk for the wash.
- Experiment and Tweak
Baking is a dynamic process, and experimentation is key. Adjust the yeast quantity, rise times, and hydration levels to suit your preferences. Keep a baking journal to record your observations. This allows you to refine the recipe with each iteration.
While these tips are great, achieving a replica of Jimmy Johns bread recipe might be challenging. Use our recipe and tips as a guide, and enjoy the creative journey in your kitchen!
How to Serve Our Copy Cat Jimmy Johns Bread
There are lots of ways to serve our Jimmy Johns bread. We suggest the following options.
- Freshly Sliced
Use a sharp, serrated knife to slice the bread just before serving to maintain its freshness. You can offer guests a breadboard and knife at the table to slice their preferred thickness.
Softened butter is one of the best accompaniments. You can present it in a small or butter dish for easy spreading. Consider providing flavored olive oils with balsamic vinegar or infused oils for dipping.
- Sandwiches and Toasted Options
Create a sandwich station with fillings like deli meats, cheeses, fresh vegetables, and condiments. You can also toast the slices using a toaster, oven, or panini press for added warmth and crunch.
- Cheese and Charcuterie Platter
Arrange an array of cheeses, cured meats, nuts, and dried fruits on a serving platter. Include mustard or honey for dipping, and add fresh herbs for garnish.
- Dipping Sauces
Experiment with different dipping sauces, including marinara, pesto, hummus, and tzatziki. You can serve them in small bowls alongside the bread. Allow your guests to experiment with different flavor combinations.
- Bruschetta or Crostini
Top the bread slices with a mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can use balsamic glaze or drizzled honey to add a finishing touch to the bruschetta.
- Homemade Croutons
Cube the bread into bite-sized pieces and toss with olive oil, garlic powder, and herbs. Bake until golden brown for homemade croutons to top salads or soups.
- Sweet Options
Serve the bread with sweet spreads like fruit preserves, Nutella, or honey for dessert. Consider adding powdered sugar or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra sweetness.