Copycat Outback Steakhouse Bread
Copycat Outback Steakhouse Bread
If you’ve ever been to Outback Steakhouse, you know the best part of the meal comes before the steak even hits the table — that warm, dark, slightly sweet bread served with whipped butter.
It’s soft, rich, and full of that signature honey-molasses flavor that keeps you reaching for another slice.
This Copycat Outback Steakhouse Bread recipe brings that same restaurant magic right to your own kitchen! The loaves are tender, perfectly sweet, and just as delicious as the original.
Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty dinner or enjoying a slice with butter and coffee, this bread is pure comfort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Just like the restaurant: Sweet, soft, and that same dark, rich color.
- Perfect with butter: Especially whipped honey butter or cinnamon butter.
- Make-ahead friendly: You can make the dough ahead and bake later.
- Homemade warmth: Makes your whole house smell like a bakery.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Bread:
- 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tbsp molasses
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or melted butter
- 2 cups bread flour
- 1 ¾ cups whole wheat flour
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder (unsweetened – gives that signature dark color)
- 1 tsp salt
Optional for Topping:
- Cornmeal (for dusting the pan)
- Butter (for brushing the tops)
How to Make Copycat Outback Steakhouse Bread
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir and let it sit for about 10 minutes until foamy — that’s how you know your yeast is alive and ready to go.
Step 2: Add Sweeteners and Oil
Whisk in the honey, molasses, and vegetable oil until combined.
Step 3: Mix in Dry Ingredients
Add bread flour, whole wheat flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour until it pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Knead for 6–8 minutes on medium speed (or by hand) until smooth and elastic.
Step 5: Let It Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Shape the Loaves
Punch down the dough and divide it into two or three mini loaves. Roll each loaf into an oval shape and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment or sprinkled with cornmeal.
Step 7: Second Rise
Cover and let rise another 30–40 minutes, until puffy.
Step 8: Bake
Bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes, or until the tops are firm and the loaves sound hollow when tapped. Brush with melted butter right out of the oven for that glossy, bakery-style finish.
Jennie’s Thoughts
This bread is one of those recipes that feels like a hug. The smell of honey and molasses baking fills your kitchen with such warmth.
I’ve made this for holidays, Sunday dinners, and cozy family meals — and everyone always asks for seconds.
It pairs beautifully with hearty dishes like Easy Chili, Creamy Chicken Pasta, or a bowl of Homemade Caramel Apple Butter for spreading on top.
I love that it’s simple to make but tastes like something from a high-end restaurant.
If you’ve ever loved the Outback bread basket (and who hasn’t?), this is your sign to try it at home.
Tips for Perfect Bread Every Time
- Use warm, not hot, water: Too hot can kill the yeast.
- Cocoa powder: It’s for color and depth, not sweetness — don’t skip it!
- For that Outback look: Shape into smaller loaves rather than one big one.
- Butter finish: Brush with melted butter right out of the oven.
- Storage: Wrap tightly and store at room temperature for 3 days or freeze up to 2 months.
What to Serve With Outback Bread
This homemade bread is delicious with:
- Copycat Outback Alice Springs Chicken
- Cowboy Beans
- Garlic Butter Spaghetti
- Skillet Fried Potatoes and Onions
Or simply serve it with whipped butter and a drizzle of honey — pure heaven!
More Copycat Recipes You’ll Love
This Copycat Outback Steakhouse Bread recipe tastes just like the restaurant favorite! Soft, slightly sweet, and full of rich molasses flavor, this homemade dark honey wheat bread is perfect with butter or alongside any meal.
