Outback Steakhouse Bread Copycat

Love the warm, slightly sweet, dark bread served at Outback Steakhouse? This copycat Outback Steakhouse Bread brings the same soft texture and rich flavor right into your kitchen. It’s made with simple pantry ingredients, a touch of sweetness, and that iconic deep brown color. Serve it warm with butter and enjoy the perfect restaurant-style treat at home.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Authentic Flavor – Tastes just like the restaurant version.
Soft & Slightly Sweet – A perfect pairing for savory dishes or a pat of butter.
Simple Ingredients – No need for fancy tools or ingredients.
Great for Sandwiches – Holds up beautifully with fillings or as a side.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Stays soft for days and freezes well.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 2 tsp instant dry yeast
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder (unsweetened)
• 1 tbsp molasses
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1½ tsp salt
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil or melted butter
• Cornmeal, for dusting (optional)

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Stand mixer with dough hook or hands for kneading
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Kitchen towel
• Pastry brush (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, molasses, and honey.
2. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy. This shows your yeast is active.

Step 2: Mix the Dough
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, cocoa powder, brown sugar, and salt.
4. Add the yeast mixture and vegetable oil to the flour mixture.
5. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. (Use a stand mixer if preferred.)

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a kitchen towel.
7. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Loaves
8. Punch down the dough and divide into 2–3 equal portions.
9. Shape each piece into a small loaf or oval shape.
10. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Dust the tops with cornmeal if desired.

Step 5: Final Proof & Bake
11. Cover loosely and let the loaves rise again for 30–40 minutes.
12. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
13. Bake the loaves for 20–25 minutes until the tops are firm and the bottom sounds hollow when tapped.
14. Cool slightly before slicing and serve warm.

Tips for Perfect Outback Bread
Use Unsweetened Cocoa – It adds color and depth, not chocolate flavor.
Molasses Is Key – It gives the bread its signature color and sweetness.
Don’t Overknead – Enough to make it smooth, but not too much.
Use Warm Water – Helps activate the yeast and kickstarts rising.
Add Cornmeal – For that rustic look and light crunch.

Serving Suggestions
With Honey Butter – The classic pairing, sweet and salty.
As a Side – Serve with soups, salads, or steak dinners.
Sandwich Bread – Great for hearty sandwiches or sliders.
Toasted – Slice and toast with cream cheese or jam.
Bread Basket – Include it in a holiday or dinner bread spread.

How to Store & Freeze

Store:
Keep in an airtight container or bread bag for up to 3–4 days at room temperature.

Freeze:
Wrap whole loaves or slices tightly in plastic and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheat:
Warm in the oven at 300°F for 8–10 minutes or microwave slices for 10–15 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use only all-purpose flour?
You can, but the wheat flour adds that classic texture and heartiness. Consider a 75/25 blend.

2. What’s a substitute for molasses?
Dark corn syrup or maple syrup works, but molasses gives the most authentic flavor.

3. Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant?
Yes, just dissolve it in the warm water with honey and molasses and let it proof before mixing with flour.

4. Can I make this in a bread machine?
Yes! Add ingredients in the order recommended by your machine and use the dough setting before shaping and baking in the oven.

Final Thoughts

This Outback Steakhouse Bread Copycat is soft, rich, and full of cozy flavor—the perfect side for any meal or a satisfying snack on its own. With its deep color, subtle sweetness, and perfect texture, it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Give it a try, slice it warm, and enjoy with a swipe of butter. Don’t forget to share your homemade bread photos—I can’t wait to see your delicious results!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Rising Time: 90 minutes
Baking Time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: American – Restaurant Copycat

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, 12 total):
Calories: 160 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 28g | Fat: 3g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 6g | Sodium: 210mg

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