Description
Bring the warm, slightly sweet, and deeply satisfying flavor of Outback Steakhouse’s famous bread right into your kitchen with this easy copycat recipe. This soft and hearty loaf has a rich, dark color thanks to molasses and cocoa powder, and it’s perfect with a smear of butter or alongside your favorite meal. Made with simple pantry ingredients, this bread will quickly become a family favorite.
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Ingredients
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1 ¾ cups warm water (about 110°F)
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2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
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¼ cup molasses (not blackstrap)
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2 tbsp brown sugar
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2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
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2 cups bread flour (or all-purpose flour)
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1 cup whole wheat flour
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1 cup rye flour (or use more wheat flour if unavailable)
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1 ½ tsp salt
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2 tbsp vegetable oil or melted butter
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Cornmeal (for dusting)
Optional Toppings:
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Rolled oats for garnish
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Softened butter with honey or cinnamon for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
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In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and brown sugar. Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
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Stir in molasses, cocoa powder, oil (or butter), and salt.
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Add the flours gradually: start with whole wheat and rye, then add bread flour ½ cup at a time.
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Mix until a soft, sticky dough forms. Add more flour if needed.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
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Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
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Alternatively, knead with a dough hook on medium speed for 5–7 minutes.
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Form into a ball and place in a greased bowl. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled.
Step 4: Shape and Second Rise
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Punch down the dough and divide into 2–3 equal portions.
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Shape into oval or torpedo-style loaves.
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Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment and lightly dusted with cornmeal.
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Cover loosely and let rise for another 30–40 minutes.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Optional: Slash the tops of loaves with a sharp knife for a rustic look.
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Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the loaves sound hollow when tapped and are deep brown.
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Let cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
Use Warm Water – Not too hot, or it will kill the yeast.
Don’t Skip the Molasses – It adds color and rich flavor.
Adjust Flour Gradually – Dough should be soft and tacky, not dry.
Dust with Cornmeal – Adds a signature texture and look.
Slice After Cooling – Cutting too soon can make it gummy.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American