Soft, chewy sandwich rolls with that signature thin crust and tender interior recreate the beloved Jimmy John’s bread experience right in your home kitchen.

This Jimmy John’s copycat bread recipe delivers authentic results using simple ingredients and proven techniques that capture the exact texture and flavor of the restaurant’s famous sub rolls.

No commercial bread improvers, no complicated shaping – just straightforward yeast bread methods that create perfectly chewy rolls with the ideal crumb structure for loaded sandwiches.

The secret lies in proper hydration and gentle handling that develops just enough gluten for structure while maintaining the soft, pillowy texture that makes these rolls special.

This copycat bread recipe proves that restaurant-quality sandwich rolls can be made at home with ingredients you already have in your pantry.

Pro tip: Use a kitchen scale for the most accurate measurements – 1 cup of flour should weigh about 120g for consistent results that match the restaurant’s texture perfectly.

Let’s Create These Perfect Sub Rolls – Step by Step!

This Jimmy John’s bread recipe builds through traditional yeast bread techniques that create the signature texture. The key is proper fermentation timing and gentle shaping methods.

1. Activate Your Yeast

Combine warm water, yeast, and sugar in a small bowl, whisking gently to dissolve the ingredients completely.

Let the mixture stand for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly, indicating active yeast that will create a proper rise.

Add olive oil to the activated yeast mixture, stirring to combine all wet ingredients before adding to the flour.

Pro Tip: Water temperature is critical – too hot kills yeast, too cool won’t activate it. Test with a thermometer for best results.

2. Build the Dough Foundation

Combine flour and salt in a large mixing bowl, whisking to distribute salt evenly throughout the flour base.

Pour the wet yeast mixture into the flour mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms and no dry flour remains.

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, adding small amounts of flour only if the dough sticks excessively.

Pro Tip: Keep the dough slightly soft rather than stiff – Jimmy John’s bread has a tender texture that comes from proper hydration levels.

3. First Rise for Flavor Development

Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning once to coat all surfaces with oil to prevent sticking.

Cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

The dough should feel light and airy when properly risen, with visible bubbles just beneath the surface indicating good fermentation.

Pro Tip: Create a warm environment by placing the bowl on top of the refrigerator or near a sunny window for consistent rising conditions.

4. Shape Into Perfect Sub Rolls

Punch down the risen dough gently to release excess air, then turn onto a lightly floured surface for shaping.

Divide the dough into 6-8 pieces for large sandwich loaves or 12 pieces for smaller sub rolls, using a knife or dough scraper for even portions.

Roll each piece into a tight log about 8 inches long, tucking the seams underneath for smooth tops that will bake evenly.

Place shaped rolls on parchment-lined or greased baking sheets with adequate space between each roll for expansion during the second rise.

Pro Tip: Work quickly but gently when shaping to maintain the dough’s structure while achieving uniform size for even baking.

5. Final Rise and Baking

Cover the shaped rolls loosely with a clean towel and let rise in a warm spot for 30-45 minutes until puffy and nearly doubled.

Preheat your oven to 375°F during the last 15 minutes of rising time to ensure proper temperature when ready to bake.

Optional step for authentic crust: Spritz the risen rolls lightly with water just before baking to create that signature thin but chewy crust texture.

Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown all over and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom, indicating fully baked interiors.

Pro Tip: Don’t overproof the second rise – Jimmy John’s bread has a close, slightly dense crumb rather than an airy, open structure.

Recipe Notes

Note: This bread is best used within 2-3 days of baking. Cool completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup that can make the crust soft.

Pairing Options for Your Homemade Sub Rolls

Complete your sandwich experience with these classic combinations that complement the soft, chewy bread perfectly:

1. Classic Deli Combinations

Italian cold cuts with provolone, lettuce, tomato, and Italian dressing create the traditional sub shop experience that showcases the bread’s ability to hold hearty fillings.

Turkey and Swiss with avocado, sprouts, and mayo provide a lighter option that still benefits from the substantial bread structure and mild flavor.

Ham and cheddar with mustard and pickles offer a simple, satisfying combination that lets the homemade bread quality shine through clearly.

2. Grilled and Hot Options

Meatball subs with marinara and mozzarella take advantage of the bread’s sturdy structure while the steam from hot fillings improves the chewy texture.

Grilled chicken with peppers and onions creates a flavorful hot sandwich that pairs beautifully with the neutral bread base and substantial texture.

Philly cheesesteak filling utilizes the roll’s ability to contain saucy, messy ingredients while maintaining structural integrity throughout eating.

3. Vegetarian and Light Options

Caprese combinations with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil highlight the bread’s Italian-inspired olive oil flavor while providing fresh contrast.

Veggie combinations with hummus, cucumbers, and sprouts create healthy options that benefit from the bread’s protein and substantial feel.

Tuna or chicken salad preparations work perfectly with the soft interior that won’t compete with creamy fillings or tear when bitten.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

These Jimmy John’s copycat rolls store well and can be prepared strategically for convenience:

• Room Temperature: Store in airtight bags for up to 3 days; the olive oil helps maintain soft texture longer than basic bread recipes.
• Freezing Strategy: Cool completely, then freeze in sealed bags for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature when ready to use.
• Dough Preparation: Make dough through first rise, then refrigerate overnight; bring to room temperature before shaping and second rise.
• Refresh Method: Day-old rolls can be refreshed by wrapping in damp paper towels and microwaving for 10-15 seconds to restore softness.
• Slicing Timing: Wait until completely cool before slicing to prevent a gummy texture and ensure clean cuts that showcase the proper crumb structure.

Pro Tip: Slice rolls horizontally just before filling to maintain maximum freshness and prevent the cut surfaces from drying out.

Nutritional Information

Note: Values are approximate and based on 8 rolls. These substantial rolls provide a good base for hearty sandwiches while maintaining reasonable caloric content for meal planning.

Creative Variations for Every Preference

The beauty of this Jimmy John’s copycat bread lies in its versatility as a foundation for different flavors and dietary needs:

1. Flavor Improvement Options

Herb versions add dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or rosemary to the flour mixture for aromatic bread that complements Mediterranean sandwich fillings.

Whole wheat variations substitute up to half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition while maintaining the signature soft texture.

Seeded rolls incorporate sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning on top before baking for added texture and visual appeal.

2. Size and Shape Adaptations

Mini slider rolls divide the dough into 16-20 pieces for party-sized portions, perfect for appetizers or small sandwiches at gatherings.

Hoagie length rolls shape the dough into longer, thinner logs for authentic submarine sandwich proportions that match deli standards.

Round sandwich rolls form the dough into balls instead of logs for burger buns or round sandwich applications with the same great texture.

3. Crust Variations

Soft crust versions skip the water spritz and brush with melted butter before baking for a tender, buttery exterior that appeals to those preferring softer textures.

Crispy crust versions extend baking time by 3-5 minutes and include steam during the first 10 minutes of baking for an artisan-style crusty exterior.

Sweet versions add an extra tablespoon of sugar and brush with egg wash before baking for slightly sweet rolls perfect with breakfast sandwich fillings.

Make Every Sandwich Special!

This Jimmy John’s copycat bread recipe proves that restaurant-quality rolls can be made at home with simple ingredients and straightforward techniques.

For sandwich lovers, meal prep enthusiasts, or anyone wanting fresh bread without store-bought preservatives, these rolls deliver everything you want in a perfect sandwich foundation.

The make-ahead-friendly dough and freezer storage options make them practical for busy schedules, while the authentic texture and flavor create satisfying meals every time.

The combination of familiar techniques and impressive results means you can always have fresh, bakery-quality rolls ready when hunger strikes.

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