There’s nothing quite like the aroma of fresh-baked bread wafting through your home, especially when it mirrors the delicious loaves served at Outback Steakhouse. This copycat bread recipe captures that same earthy sweetness and is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or a festive holiday gathering. Making this delectable bread from scratch is not only a fun kitchen project, but it also allows you to enjoy that comforting taste anytime you desire, without leaving your house!

Why you’ll love this dish

What makes this bread truly special is its rich flavor and delightful texture. With ingredients you likely already have on hand, this recipe is both budget-friendly and easy to prepare. It’s the perfect accompaniment to soups and salads, or simply enjoyed warm out of the oven with a pat of butter. Plus, kids love the slightly sweet, fluffy loaf; it makes for a delightful addition to any meal.

“This bread is so easy and delicious! I can’t believe I can make it just like Outback at home!” – A happy home baker

How this recipe comes together

This recipe is straightforward and broken down into a series of simple steps. By following this method, you’ll be guided from mixing the ingredients to enjoying warm slices of bread. Although homemade bread may seem intimidating, I promise that it’s easier than you think!

What you’ll need

Gather these items for a perfect Outback Steakhouse replica:

1/4 cup Honey
3 tbsp Molasses
2 1/2 cups Bread flour
1/4 cup Brown sugar
3 tbsp Cocoa powder
2 tbsp Cornmeal
1 tsp Kosher salt
1 1/2 cups Whole wheat flour
1 1/2 tbsp Dry Yeast
1/4 cup Canola oil
1 1/2 cups Water

Feel free to experiment with ingredient substitutions if you’re looking to tailor this recipe to your dietary preferences. For example, using whole grain flour can add a hearty touch!

Directions to follow

In a small bowl, combine warm water, honey, and yeast. Let it sit until frothy, about 5-10 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine both types of flour, brown sugar, cocoa powder, cornmeal, and kosher salt.
Add the yeast mixture and canola oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, around 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Punch down the dough, form it into a loaf, and place it in a greased loaf pan.
Cover and let it rise again until it has doubled, about 30 minutes.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Let it cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy your homemade bread!

Best ways to enjoy it

This bread is incredibly versatile. Enjoy it fresh with a smear of butter or a drizzle of honey. It pairs beautifully with hearty soups, salads, or as part of a charcuterie board. You might even consider toasting it slices for a breakfast option or using it to make sandwiches. The possibilities are endless!

Keeping leftovers fresh

To ensure your homemade bread stays fresh, store it in an airtight container or wrap it well in plastic wrap. It can typically last up to 3-5 days at room temperature. If you want to enjoy it longer, consider freezing slices individually. To reheat, simply pop it in the toaster or warm it in the oven for a few minutes until heated through.

Pro chef tips

Activate Yeast Properly: Make sure your water is warm but not too hot, as this can kill the yeast. The ideal temperature is around 110°F (43°C).
Knead Enough: Kneading develops gluten, which is key for achieving a fluffy texture. Don’t skip this step!
Dough-Rising Location: If your kitchen is cool, a slightly warm oven can provide a great rising environment. Just heat it to the lowest setting briefly, then turn it off and place the covered dough inside.

Creative twists

Feel free to add a handful of herbs, garlic powder, or cheese into the dough for a unique flavor twist! Alternatively, you can experiment with different sweeteners or add nuts or dried fruits for a fun variation. This recipe is a canvas for your creativity!

Your questions answered

How long does this bread take to prepare?

From start to finish, including rising time, you can expect this bread to take around 2-3 hours.

Can I substitute the bread flour?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour if you don’t have bread flour, but the texture may be slightly different.

How should I store leftover bread?

Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It’s also safe to freeze.

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for novice bakers. Just follow the steps closely, and you’ll be enjoying homemade bread in no time.

By trying out this copycat recipe, you bring that beloved Outback Steakhouse experience right into your kitchen. Enjoy the process of baking and the delightful aroma as you create this special bread!