Jamie Oliver French Bread Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s French Bread is a classic, crusty loaf with a soft and airy interior. Perfect for sandwiches, dipping into soups, or simply enjoyed with butter, this homemade recipe delivers bakery-quality results with simple ingredients.

What is Jamie Oliver French Bread?

French bread, often referred to as a baguette, is a long, thin loaf with a crisp crust and a tender crumb. Jamie Oliver’s version simplifies the traditional method, making it easy to recreate this French classic at home.

Other Popular Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Fish Casserole
• Jamie Oliver Parsnip Purée
• Jamie Oliver Mushroom Omelette
• Jamie Oliver Smoked Salmon Quiche

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples like flour, yeast, and water.
• Authentic texture: Crispy crust with a soft, fluffy interior.
• Versatile: Ideal for various meals and occasions.
• No fancy equipment needed: It can be made with basic kitchen tools.
• Homemade goodness: Fresh, warm bread straight from your oven.

Ingredients Needed for Jamie Oliver French Bread

• Strong bread flour: 500g (4 cups).
• Active dry yeast: 1 packet (7g).
• Warm water: 350ml (1½ cups).
• Sugar: 1 teaspoon.
• Salt: 1½ teaspoons.
• Olive oil: 1 tablespoon.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl for the dough.
• Clean kitchen towel for covering.
• Baking tray or baguette pan.
• Sharp knife or bread is lame for scoring.
• The ovenproof dish for steaming.

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver French Bread

Step 1: Activate the yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy, indicating the yeast is active.

Step 2: Mix the dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a rough dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-6 minutes.

Step 4: Let the dough rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1½ hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Shape the bread

Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a long, thin loaf (about 12-15 inches). Place the loaves on a floured baking tray or baguette pan.

Step 6: Second rise

Cover the loaves with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for 30-40 minutes until slightly puffy.

Step 7: Preheat the oven

Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F). Place an ovenproof dish with water on the bottom rack to create steam, which helps form a crispy crust.

Step 8: Score and bake

Using a sharp knife or bread lame, make diagonal slashes on the surface of the loaves. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.

Step 9: Cool and serve

Let the loaves cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

What to Serve With Jamie Oliver French Bread

• Soups: Perfect for dipping into creamy or hearty soups.
• Cheese boards: Complements a variety of cheeses and spreads.
• Sandwiches: Makes delicious deli-style sandwiches.
• Garlic bread: Brush with garlic butter and bake for a flavorful twist.

Pro Tips for Making the Best French Bread

• Use strong bread flour: Ensures the best structure and texture.
• Measure accurately: Weigh ingredients for consistent results.
• Let the dough rise fully: Proper rising ensures a light and airy crumb.
• Create steam in the oven: Adds to the crispness of the crust.
• Score the loaves: Helps control how the bread expands while baking.
• Cool before slicing: Allows the crumb to set for cleaner cuts.

What are Variations of Jamie Oliver French Bread?

• Whole wheat: Replace half the bread flour with whole wheat flour.
• Herbed bread: Mix in dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor.
• Cheesy crust: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or cheddar on top before baking.
• Seeded bread: Add sesame or poppy seeds for extra texture.
• Sweet version: Add a touch of honey or raisins for a sweet twist.

How Do I Store Jamie Oliver French Bread?

• At room temperature: Store in a bread box or paper bag for up to 2 days.
• In the freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature and reheat before serving.

How Do I Reheat Jamie Oliver French Bread?

• In the oven: Warm at 180°C (350°F) for 5-10 minutes for a fresh taste.
• In the toaster: Slice and toast for a crispy, warm result.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 120
• Protein: 4g
• Carbs: 22g
• Fat: 2g

FAQs

Can I make French bread without a baguette pan?

Yes, you can use a regular baking tray. Shape the dough into long, thin loaves and place them on a floured surface to prevent sticking. Use rolled-up aluminum foil to help maintain the shape during baking.

How do I make French bread crusty?

To achieve a crusty loaf, bake the bread with a dish of water in the oven to create steam. This helps form a crisp crust while keeping the inside soft.

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour for French bread?

Yes, all-purpose flour can be used, but bread flour is recommended for better structure and a chewier texture due to its higher protein content.

How do I store French bread to keep it fresh?

Store French bread in a paper bag or bread box at room temperature for up to 2 days. To extend freshness, freeze the bread tightly wrapped and reheat in the oven when needed.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver French Bread is a versatile, easy-to-make recipe that brings the taste of freshly baked bread to your home.

Try it today for a delicious homemade bread experience!

More Delicious Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Eggnog
• Jamie Oliver Creme Fraiche Lasagne
• Jamie Oliver Minty Courgette Tart
• Jamie Oliver Hash Brown

Print