Outback Steakhouse Brown Bread: The Ultimate Homemade Version

Name: Outback Steakhouse Brown Bread: The Ultimate Homemade Version
Prep time: 1 h 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: PT-483887H5M58S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup warm water (~100°F/38°C); ¼ cup brown sugar; 5 tablespoons honey; 3 tablespoons molasses; 1½ teaspoons instant dry yeast; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup whole wheat flour; 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ cup vegetable oil; Oats (for sprinkling on top before baking)

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Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on March 10, 2025

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A Slice of Nostalgia: The Story Behind the Bread

There are some restaurant experiences that stick with you, not because of the fancy entrées or elaborate desserts, but because of the simple things—the little details that make a meal feel special. For me, Outback Steakhouse’s brown bread is one of those details.

I still remember my first visit to Outback Steakhouse. While my family eagerly anticipated their steaks, I was focused on the warm, slightly sweet, soft brown bread that arrived at the table before anything else. Served on a wooden board with a generous pat of butter, it was the kind of bread you couldn’t stop eating. I’d tear off a piece, spread a little butter, and savor the perfect combination of sweet, earthy, and slightly nutty flavors.

Years later, when my nearest Outback Steakhouse closed, I found myself missing that bread more than anything else on the menu. Determined to bring that comforting taste into my own kitchen, I started experimenting. After multiple attempts—tweaking the balance of molasses, honey, cocoa, and wheat flour—I finally recreated the perfect loaf. Now, every time I bake it, the aroma of warm honey and molasses fills the house, instantly transporting me back to those family dinners.

If you love Outback Steakhouse’s bread as much as I do, this homemade version is about to become your new favorite baking project.

Why You’ll Love This Bread

1. A Perfect Copycat of the Steakhouse Favorite

This bread mimics the rich, slightly sweet, and hearty flavor of Outback’s famous rolls. It has the same deep brown color, soft texture, and slightly chewy crust, making it a must-try for fans of the original.

2. A Beautiful Balance of Sweet and Savory

The secret to this bread’s irresistible taste is in its blend of honey, molasses, and brown sugar, balanced by the nuttiness of whole wheat flour and a touch of cocoa powder. It’s just sweet enough without being overpowering.

3. Soft and Fluffy, Yet Sturdy Enough for Sandwiches

While this bread is light and airy on the inside, it also holds up well when sliced, making it perfect for sandwiches, toast, or even French toast the next morning.

4. Simple Ingredients, Bakery-Style Results

You don’t need specialty flours or complicated techniques to achieve the perfect loaf. This recipe uses basic pantry staples to create a restaurant-quality bread.

5. Versatile and Customizable

Want a heartier loaf? Add some rolled oats to the dough or sprinkle them on top before baking.
Prefer a stronger molasses flavor? Increase the amount slightly for a deeper, richer taste.
Looking for extra chewiness? Use bread flour instead of all-purpose for a slightly chewier texture.

Ingredients – The Perfect Blend of Sweet and Hearty

For the Bread Dough:

Warm Water (1 cup, ~100°F/38°C) – Helps activate the yeast
Brown Sugar (¼ cup) – Adds a deep caramel-like sweetness
Honey (5 tablespoons) – Enhances the bread’s soft texture and natural sweetness
Molasses (3 tablespoons) – Provides a rich, robust flavor
Instant Dry Yeast (1½ teaspoons) – Allows the dough to rise beautifully
All-Purpose Flour (2 cups) – Creates a soft yet structured loaf
Whole Wheat Flour (1 cup) – Adds a hearty, slightly nutty flavor
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (3 tablespoons) – Contributes to the bread’s signature dark color and depth of flavor
Salt (½ teaspoon) – Balances the sweetness and enhances the taste
Vegetable Oil (¼ cup) – Keeps the bread moist and tender

For the Topping:

Oats (for sprinkling on top before baking) – Adds a rustic touch and a bit of texture

Directions – From Mixing Bowl to Golden-Brown Loaf

1. Activate the Yeast
Combine warm water, brown sugar, honey, molasses, and yeast. Let sit until foamy.

2. Mix the Dough
Whisk together the flours, cocoa powder, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and vegetable oil, kneading until a smooth dough forms.

3. First Rise
Cover the dough and let it rise for 45 minutes until doubled in size.

4. Shape the Loaves
Divide into 8 equal pieces, roll into ovals, and place in a baking dish.

5. Second Rise & Toppings
Let the loaves rise for another 30 minutes. Sprinkle with oats for a classic Outback-style finish.

6. Bake to Perfection
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes until golden brown.

Nutritional Snapshot – A Warm, Hearty Treat

Calories: ~425 per serving
Carbohydrates: 79g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 31g

How to Serve Outback-Style Brown Bread

1. The Classic Way: Warm with Butter

The simplest and best way to enjoy this bread is fresh out of the oven, slathered with butter. The warmth melts the butter into the bread, creating the perfect bite.

2. As a Side for Soups and Salads

Pair this bread with a bowl of creamy broccoli cheddar soup, French onion soup, or a crisp Caesar salad. Its subtle sweetness complements savory dishes beautifully.

3. As a Base for Hearty Sandwiches

Use thick slices of this bread to make turkey, ham, or roast beef sandwiches. The slightly sweet flavor pairs especially well with sharp cheeses like cheddar or Swiss.

4. Turn It into French Toast

Leftover bread? Slice it thick, dip it in an egg mixture, and cook it into a rich, caramelized French toast. The hint of molasses adds a delicious depth of flavor.

5. Make It a Dessert

Drizzle warm slices with honey or cinnamon butter, or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a unique, sweet treat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why Is This Bread Brown?

The combination of molasses, honey, and cocoa powder gives this bread its signature deep brown color. While cocoa doesn’t make the bread taste like chocolate, it adds depth to the flavor.

2. Can I Make This Bread Without Whole Wheat Flour?

Yes! If you don’t have whole wheat flour, you can substitute all-purpose flour in its place. However, whole wheat flour adds a slightly nutty flavor and a more authentic texture.

3. Can I Use Regular Sugar Instead of Brown Sugar?

Brown sugar is best because it contains molasses, which enhances the bread’s deep flavor. If you only have granulated sugar, you can use it, but the bread will lose some of its rich taste.

4. Can I Use a Bread Machine?

Yes! You can mix and knead the dough in a bread machine using the dough setting, then shape it by hand, let it rise, and bake it in the oven for the best texture.

5. How Do I Store This Bread?

At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
In the Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to a week when wrapped tightly.
In the Freezer: Slice and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in the oven or toaster.

6. How Can I Get a Chewier Crust?

If you want a chewier, crustier exterior, try baking the bread with a pan of hot water on the lower oven rack. The steam helps create a crispy crust while keeping the inside soft.

7. Can I Add Nuts or Seeds to the Dough?

Absolutely! Try adding sunflower seeds, chopped walnuts, or flaxseeds to the dough for extra texture and flavor.

8. My Bread Didn’t Rise—What Went Wrong?

Your yeast may be expired. Always check the expiration date.
The water was too hot or too cold. If it’s too hot, it kills the yeast; too cold, and it won’t activate properly.
The dough didn’t get enough time to rise. Ensure it’s in a warm, draft-free place.

9. Can I Make Mini Rolls Instead of Loaves?

Yes! Shape the dough into small rolls instead of loaves and reduce the baking time to 12-15 minutes for soft, dinner-style rolls.

10. Can I Make This Bread Vegan?

Yes! Replace the honey with maple syrup or agave, and use plant-based oil instead of butter.

Final Thoughts: A Bread Worth Baking Again and Again

There’s something deeply satisfying about baking homemade bread, and this Outback Steakhouse Brown Bread copycat is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special.

With its soft texture, subtle sweetness, and warm, comforting aroma, this bread is more than just a side dish—it’s an experience. Whether you’re serving it with butter, making sandwiches, or simply enjoying it warm from the oven, it’s guaranteed to bring a touch of restaurant-quality indulgence to your home.

So the next time you’re craving that famous steakhouse bread, skip the restaurant and bake it yourself. Once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why this recipe is one you’ll want to make over and over again.