This Outback Steakhouse Bread is a soft, slightly sweet, and hearty honey wheat bread inspired by the famous steakhouse loaf. With a rich blend of molasses, honey, and cocoa powder, this bread pairs beautifully with whipped butter, making it a perfect side for any meal or a delicious treat on its own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Restaurant-style bread at home – Enjoy the taste of Outback’s famous bread anytime.
Soft, slightly sweet, and rich in flavor – A perfect balance of molasses, honey, and cocoa powder.
Pairs well with everything – Serve it with butter, jam, or alongside soups and steaks.
Easy to make – Simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions make this bread foolproof.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 ½ cups warm water (105°F to 110°F)
¼ cup brown sugar
¼ cup honey
3 tablespoons molasses
1 ½ tablespoons active dry yeast
1 teaspoon kosher salt
¼ cup canola oil
2 ½ cups bread flour (plus more as needed)
1 ½ cups whole wheat flour (plus more as needed)
3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 to 2 tablespoons cornmeal (for dusting the pan)

Directions

1. Activate the Yeast

In a measuring cup, mix warm water, brown sugar, honey, and molasses.
Sprinkle the yeast over the mixture and let it sit for 5 minutes until it softens and becomes foamy.

2. Prepare the Dough

Pour the yeast mixture into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook.
Add salt, canola oil, bread flour, whole wheat flour, and cocoa powder.
Mix on low speed until all the ingredients are combined and there are no dry pockets of flour.

3. Knead the Dough

Increase to medium speed and knead for 5 to 10 minutes, adding extra flour as needed.
The dough should be slightly sticky but elastic and bounce back when touched.
Cover with a clean dish towel and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

4. Shape the Loaves

Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal portions.
Shape each portion into a small loaf or roll.

5. Second Rise

Dust a baking sheet with cornmeal and place the shaped loaves on it.
Cover with a clean dish towel and let them rise until doubled in size, about 30 to 45 minutes.

6. Bake the Bread

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the loaves sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

7. Cool & Serve

Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
Serve warm with whipped butter or honey butter for the ultimate experience!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8 small loaves
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Calories: ~145 kcal per loaf

Variations

Whole Grain Version – Swap half of the bread flour for more whole wheat flour for a denser loaf.
Sweeter Bread – Increase honey to ⅓ cup for a slightly sweeter taste.
Nutty Flavor – Add ¼ cup of ground flaxseeds or chopped walnuts for extra texture.
Seed Topping – Sprinkle oats or sesame seeds on top before baking for a rustic touch.

Storage & Reheating

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes or microwave for 10 seconds for a soft texture.

FAQs

Can I make this without a stand mixer?

Yes! Mix the dough by hand in a large bowl, then knead on a floured surface for 10 minutes.

Why is cocoa powder used in this recipe?

Cocoa powder enhances the deep color and adds richness without making the bread taste like chocolate.

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

Yes, but the bread flour gives a chewier texture. If using all-purpose flour, reduce the water slightly.

What can I serve with this bread?

This bread pairs wonderfully with whipped butter, honey butter, soups, or alongside steak dinners.

Conclusion

This Outback Steakhouse Bread is a rich, slightly sweet, and hearty loaf that brings the restaurant experience to your home. Whether served warm with butter or as a side for a hearty meal, this bread is a must-try for bread lovers and home bakers alike! ✨

Outback Steakhouse Bread

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Print Recipe

This Outback Steakhouse Bread is a soft, slightly sweet, and hearty honey wheat loaf inspired by the famous restaurant. Made with molasses, honey, and cocoa powder, this homemade bread pairs perfectly with whipped butter and is great as a side for any meal. Try this easy-to-make copycat recipe and enjoy the taste of Outback’s signature bread at home!

Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 8 small loaves

Instructions