Jamie Oliver French Bread

Jamie Oliver French Bread is made with warm water, active dry yeast, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, table salt, and olive oil. This easy French Bread recipe creates a delicious bread with a crispy crust and soft interior that takes about 2 hours to prepare and can serve up to 8 people.

Try More Jamie Oliver Recipes:

• Jamie Oliver 3 Ingredient Bread
• Jamie Oliver Olive Bread
• Jamie Oliver Sourdough Bread Recipe
• Jamie Oliver Eggy Bread

🧡 Why You’ll Love This French Bread Recipe:

• Simple Ingredients: The recipe uses basic ingredients that are likely already in your pantry, making it easy and convenient to prepare.
• Authentic Taste: This bread has a classic, authentic French flavor with a crisp crust and soft, chewy interior, perfect for any meal.
• Versatile Use: You can enjoy this bread with soups, salads, sandwiches, or simply with butter. It’s versatile and pairs well with many dishes.
• No Special Equipment Needed: You don’t need any special tools or machines to make this bread. A simple bowl and your hands (or a stand mixer) will do.
• Perfect for Beginners: The detailed instructions and straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike.

🧈 Jamie Oliver French Bread Ingredients:

• 2 cups (480 ml) warm water (about 105°F / 40°C)
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 2 ½ teaspoons granulated sugar
• 5 cups (650 g) all-purpose flour (more as needed)
• 2 ½ teaspoons table salt (or fine sea salt)
• 1 teaspoon olive oil

🥖 How To Make Jamie Oliver French Bread:

1. Mix the Yeast: Start by mixing the warm water, yeast, and sugar in a small bowl. Then, wait for five minutes until it starts to foam.
2. Prepare the Dough: Next, in a large bowl or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, mix 2 cups of flour and the salt together. Then, add the yeast mixture to the bowl and stir it in using medium-low speed or by hand.
3. Knead the Dough: After this, gradually add the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until the dough becomes smooth and not sticky. You might need more or less than 5 cups of flour depending on the weather. If the dough is still sticky, add more flour.
4. Let the Dough Rest: Then, place the dough ball in a bowl and cover it with a towel. Let it rest for 15 to 30 minutes. If you have more time, let it rise for up to an hour.
5. Shape the Dough: Next, spread the dough on a floured surface and cut it in half. Take one half and set it aside. Shape the other half into a 15-inch long square. Then, roll the dough from the long side into a cylinder shape, pinch the edges closed, and tuck the ends in. Place it on a baking sheet and round off the edges. Repeat with the second half of the dough.
6. Second Rise: After shaping, cut three diagonal slashes on the top of each loaf. Lay a towel over the loaves and let them rise for 30 to 60 minutes. If you have more time, let them rise longer.
7. Preheat the Oven: Then, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
8. Bake the Bread: Next, bake the loaves for 17 to 23 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped. If the bread is browning too quickly, cover it lightly with foil and reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
9. Optional Butter Finish: If you like, brush the tops with melted butter after baking.
10. Serve: Finally, cut and serve the bread while it’s still warm. Enjoy your homemade French bread!

💭 Recipe Tips

• Use Fresh Yeast: Always use fresh and active yeast. Old yeast won’t help the dough rise well.
• Check Water Temperature: Use a thermometer to make sure the water is about 105°F (40°C). Too hot or too cold water can affect the yeast.
• Add Flour Slowly: Add the flour slowly and check the dough. It should be smooth and a little sticky. You might need more or less flour.
• Let Dough Rise Well: Let the dough rise for up to an hour if you can. This makes the bread taste and feel better.
• Slash the Dough: Cut the top of the dough before the second rise. This helps the bread expand and get a nice crust.

🍵 What To Serve With French Bread?

French Bread pairs well with creamy tomato soup, fresh garden salad, garlic butter shrimp, or roasted vegetables. It also can be served alongside beef stew, chicken curry, cheese platter, or pasta.

🎚 How To Store Leftovers French Bread?

• Refrigerate: Wrap the bread in plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh.
• Freeze: To freeze, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

🥵 How To Reheat Leftovers French Bread?

• In The Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the bread in foil and heat for 10-15 minutes until warm.
• In The Microwave: Place a slice of bread on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium heat for 10-20 seconds.
• On The Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the bread in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 2-3 minutes on each side until warm.
• In The Toaster: Slice the bread and place it in the toaster. Toast on a medium setting until warm and slightly crispy.

FAQs

Jamie Oliver French Bread Nutrition Facts

• Calories 244.6
• Total Fat 7.4g
• Saturated Fat 0.6g
• Cholesterol 23.6mg
• Total Carbohydrate 40.6g
• Dietary Fiber 2g
• Sugars 11g
• Protein 4.6g