Description
Bring the warm, comforting taste of restaurant-style bread right to your kitchen with this Outback Steakhouse Bread Copycat recipe! Soft, slightly sweet, and infused with rich molasses flavor, this dark honey wheat bread has the perfect chewy texture and iconic brown color. Serve it warm with a pat of butter, and you’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
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Ingredients
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1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
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2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
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2 tbsp honey
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2 tbsp molasses
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1 tbsp brown sugar
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1½ cups bread flour
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1 cup whole wheat flour
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¼ cup rye flour (or use more whole wheat if needed)
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1 tbsp cocoa powder (unsweetened, for color and richness)
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1½ tsp salt
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2 tbsp vegetable oil or melted butter
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Cornmeal for dusting (optional)
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Rolled oats for topping (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
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In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, honey, molasses, and brown sugar.
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Sprinkle yeast over the top and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
3. Add bread flour, whole wheat flour, rye flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
4. Stir with a wooden spoon or use a stand mixer with a dough hook to combine.
5. Add oil and knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and slightly sticky.
6. If too sticky, add a little more flour 1 tablespoon at a time.
Step 3: First Rise
7. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a towel or wrap.
8. Let rise in a warm place for 60–90 minutes until doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Loaves
9. Punch down the dough and divide into 2 or 3 equal portions.
10. Shape into oval loaves or small logs.
11. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet dusted with cornmeal.
Step 5: Second Rise
12. Cover loaves loosely and let rise for another 30–40 minutes until puffy.
13. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) during this time.
Step 6: Bake
14. Optionally, brush loaves with water or melted butter and sprinkle oats on top.
15. Bake for 22–25 minutes until dark brown and firm when tapped.
16. Let cool slightly before slicing.
Step 7: Serve Warm
17. Slice and enjoy with whipped or honey butter for the full steakhouse experience!
Notes
Use Cocoa Powder – It’s key to getting that signature dark color.
Don’t Skip the Molasses – It gives the bread its deep, rich flavor.
Knead Well – This helps develop gluten for the perfect texture.
Add Steam – Place a pan of hot water in the oven to keep the crust soft.
Let Cool Before Slicing – It slices better and holds shape after cooling slightly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American – Restaurant Style