Name: Outback Steakhouse Bread Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 2 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups warm water (110°F or 43°C); 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1/2 cup honey; 2 tablespoons molasses; 3 1/2 cups whole wheat flour; 3 tablespoons cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons active dry yeast; 2 1/2-3 cups bread flour; Cornmeal (for dusting)

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If you have ever fallen in love with the warm, comforting aroma and the rich, inviting taste of a freshly baked loaf of bread at your favorite steakhouse, then this Outback Steakhouse Bread Recipe will feel like a dream come true. Combining wholesome whole wheat flour, a touch of cocoa powder for that signature deep color and subtle flavor, and the natural sweetness of honey and molasses, this bread is irresistibly soft on the inside with a delightfully textured crust. It’s the perfect companion to hearty meals or simply enjoyed on its own with butter, making it a must-try recipe that brings the beloved Outback Steakhouse experience right into your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large silver mixing bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a blue and white checkered cloth underneath. Inside the bowl, there is a base layer of wet, light brown batter, topped with a thick layer of light tan flour. On top of the flour, there is a heap of dark brown cocoa powder with a small pile of white salt or baking powder in the center. Nearby, there is a smaller white bowl filled with flour and a metal scoop, and a wooden salt shaker and light wooden spoon rest to the side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Outback Steakhouse Bread Recipe relies on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a crucial role in developing the bread’s texture, flavor, and color. From the moisture of warm water to activate the yeast, to the nutritional benefits and heartiness of whole wheat flour, every component is essential for creating that signature loaf.

2 1/2 cups warm water (110°F or 43°C): Activates the yeast and hydrates the flours for a soft crumb.
1/4 cup vegetable oil: Adds moisture and keeps the bread tender.
1/2 cup honey: Naturally sweetens the bread while helping with browning.
2 tablespoons molasses: Deepens color and adds a rich, slightly smoky undertone.
3 1/2 cups whole wheat flour: Provides hearty flavor and boosts fiber content.
3 tablespoons cocoa powder: Contributes to the distinctive dark, rich crust without taste of chocolate.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors while controlling yeast activity.
2 tablespoons active dry yeast: Leavens the dough to create that perfect rise and airy texture.
2 1/2 to 3 cups bread flour: Builds strength and elasticity for an ideal crumb structure.
Cornmeal (for dusting): Prevents sticking and adds a rustic crunch on the crust.

How to Make Outback Steakhouse Bread Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Start by combining warm water, vegetable oil, honey, and molasses in the bowl of your stand mixer. Mixing these first ensures that the yeast will activate efficiently and the sweeteners will blend smoothly, setting the tone for a beautiful dough base.

Step 2: Incorporate Whole Wheat Flour, Cocoa, and Salt

Add the whole wheat flour, cocoa powder, and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix gently on slow speed until just combined, then cover the bowl with a kitchen towel. Letting the mixture rest for about 10 minutes allows the flour to fully hydrate, which delivers better dough consistency in the following steps.

Step 3: Add Yeast and Bread Flour Gradually

With your stand mixer running at low speed, introduce the active dry yeast and add the bread flour one cup at a time. This slow incorporation helps develop gluten and ensures the dough becomes smooth and elastic, pulling away from the sides of the bowl cleanly without being sticky.

Step 4: Prepare Baking Sheets

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and generously dust with cornmeal. This simple step prevents sticking and gives the finished loaves a wonderful textural contrast on the bottom crust.

Step 5: Shape the Dough Into Loaves

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and divide it evenly into four portions. Shape each piece into a neat loaf, taking care to create a smooth outer surface that will help the bread rise evenly.

Step 6: Let the Loaves Rise

Place your shaped loaves on the prepared baking sheets and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Allow them to rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 45 to 60 minutes, or until they have doubled in size, which is essential for a light, airy bread.

Step 7: Preheat the Oven and Dust Loaves

While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Just before baking, dust the tops of the risen dough with extra cornmeal to add a lovely rustic texture and enhance the flavor of the crust.

Step 8: Bake Until Perfectly Cooked

Bake the loaves for around 40 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C). This precise temperature ensures the bread is fully baked but remains moist inside with a golden crust.

Step 9: Cool Before Slicing

Remove your freshly baked bread from the oven and transfer to a cooling rack. Letting the loaves cool completely is key for the crumb to set properly and to make slicing easier without squishing the soft bread.

Step 10: Enjoy Your Homemade Delight

Slice your Outback Steakhouse Bread and serve it warm with a generous spread of butter. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of hearty texture and subtle sweetness that will have you coming back for more.

How to Serve Outback Steakhouse Bread Recipe

The image shows a wooden board on a white marbled surface, with two loaves of dark brown bread placed on a piece of parchment paper; one loaf is whole and the other is partially sliced into four even pieces, revealing a dense, textured interior. To the upper right of the board, there is a small white bowl filled with creamy butter, and a silver butter knife rests diagonally on the board near the top. A blue and white checkered cloth is partially visible on the lower left of the image, and a spoon with some butter dolloped on it is in the bottom right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

This Outback Steakhouse Bread Recipe shines at the table simply on its own, but you can elevate it with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on the crust or a swipe of herb-infused butter for an aromatic touch. Fresh rosemary or garlic butter pairs beautifully for a savory twist that welcomes any meal.

Side Dishes

This bread is wonderfully versatile. It pairs perfectly with hearty soups like roasted tomato bisque, robust chili, or a creamy potato leek soup. It’s also delicious alongside classic steak dinners or grilled vegetables, soaking up sauces and juices with ease.

Creative Ways to Present

Instead of classic slices, consider serving the bread as thick cut “open-faced” toast topped with melted cheese and fresh herbs, or cut into cubes and toasted for homemade croutons or fondue dippers. Its rich texture and color make it an eye-catching addition to any bread basket or appetizer spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the bread in an airtight container or bread box at room temperature. It will stay fresh for 2 to 3 days, maintaining its texture and flavor without drying out.

Freezing

This Outback Steakhouse Bread Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled loaves tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe bag. It will hold its quality for up to 3 months, perfect for baking ahead for gatherings or busy weeknights.

Reheating

Reheat slices in a toaster or warm the entire loaf in a 350°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes wrapped in foil to revive that fresh-baked aroma and texture. A quick butter spread after warming makes it taste like it just came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I substitute the whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour?

While you can substitute all-purpose flour, the whole wheat flour provides essential nutty flavor and hearty texture that defines the Outback Steakhouse Bread Recipe. Using all-purpose will result in a lighter, less robust loaf.

Why is cocoa powder added to the bread?

Cocoa powder contributes the deep brown color and a subtle rich undertone to the bread without making it taste like chocolate. It’s one of the reasons this bread has that distinctive look and character.

Can I make this bread without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! You can mix and knead the dough by hand, although it will require more effort and time to achieve the same smooth and elastic texture. Just make sure to knead until the dough springs back when pressed.

How important is the cornmeal dusting?

Cornmeal dusting prevents sticking and adds a lovely texture to the crust’s bottom and top. It’s a simple touch that enhances both presentation and eating experience, so it’s worth including if possible.

How long does the bread take to rise?

The loaves need to rise for 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the temperature of your room. The key indicator is that the dough should double in size, which ensures a light crumb when baked.

Final Thoughts

There is something deeply satisfying about making this Outback Steakhouse Bread Recipe from scratch — not only does it fill your kitchen with an inviting aroma, but it also brings that comforting, hearty flavor you crave from restaurant bread right to your table. Whether you’re serving it with a special meal or enjoying it as a treat with butter and jam, this recipe is a fantastic addition to your baking repertoire. Give it a try and watch it become a favorite that’s hard to beat.