Outback Steakhouse Bread Recipe – Sweet, Hearty, and Homemade

If you’ve ever found yourself at Outback Steakhouse, you know the bread they bring to your table is something special. That warm, dark, slightly sweet loaf is enough to make me forget I even came for steak. So I had to find a way to bring that bakery-style magic into my own kitchen—and friends, this Outback Steakhouse Bread recipe nails it.

It’s hearty. It’s got depth. And it’s perfectly slathered in butter right out of the oven. Let me show you how to make it step-by-step so you can enjoy this steakhouse classic at home anytime.

Why You’ll Love This Outback Steakhouse Bread Recipe

• Rich and slightly sweet flavor from honey and molasses
• Gorgeous dark color just like the restaurant version
• Soft, tender crumb with a hearty texture
• Freezer-friendly and great for batch baking
• Pairs perfectly with butter, soups, and steak dinners
• Simple ingredients and beginner-friendly instructions

Ingredients for Outback Steakhouse Bread

• 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 to 3 cups bread flour
• Cornmeal, for dusting

How to Make Outback Steakhouse Bread (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, mix together warm water, oil, honey, and molasses until smooth. I always pause for a second to inhale that sweet molasses aroma—so comforting.

Step 2: Add the Dry Base

Add whole wheat flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix on low until just combined. Let it rest for 10 minutes to absorb the liquids—this step makes the dough more tender.

Step 3: Build the Dough

Add yeast and bread flour, one cup at a time, while mixing on low. Mix until dough pulls away from sides and forms a soft ball. You want it tacky, but not sticky.

Step 4: Shape the Loaves

Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Divide into four equal pieces and shape into loaves. I love making smaller loaves—they’re perfect for gifting (or freezing for later).

Step 5: Rise and Rest

Place loaves on parchment-lined, cornmeal-dusted baking sheets. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let rise for 45–60 minutes until doubled in size.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat oven to 350°F. Dust loaf tops with more cornmeal and bake for about 40 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 190°F. The smell will be irresistible.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Transfer to a cooling rack. Let cool completely before slicing. Serve warm with butter—or go bold and make mini sandwiches!

My Go-To Tips for Perfect Copycat Outback Steakhouse Bread

• Don’t skip the cocoa powder – it adds color and richness without tasting like chocolate.
• Honey + molasses = that signature sweet-savory Outback-style flavor.
• Use warm water, not hot—anything over 115°F could kill the yeast.
• Want rolls instead of loaves? Just divide into smaller rounds and bake 20–25 minutes.
• Make ahead! Freeze baked loaves for up to 3 months. Just thaw and warm before serving.

FAQs About Outback Steakhouse Bread

What kind of bread does Outback serve?
It’s a sweet, honey wheat bread made with molasses and cocoa powder for that signature color.

Can I buy Outback bread in stores?
Some grocery chains may carry “Bushman bread” or similar. But nothing beats homemade!

Is this the same as Cheesecake Factory’s bread?
Similar in appearance but slightly different in flavor—Outback’s version is sweeter and more molasses-forward.

Why is the bread so dark?
Cocoa powder and molasses give the bread that rich, brown color.

How do I store leftover bread?
Wrap tightly and store at room temp for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

What to Serve with Outback Steakhouse Bread

• Creamy soups like butternut squash or loaded potato
• Steak dinners with garlic butter (yes, it’s that good!)
• Cold sandwiches with turkey, ham, or sharp cheddar
• As a snack with a smear of cinnamon butter or honey
• Great addition to any holiday table spread

More Bread Recipes You’ll Love

Soft and Fluffy White Bread Loaf – classic homemade sandwich bread with a pillowy interior.

Buttery Garlic Swirl Rolls – rich, garlicky rolls that make any meal better.

Best Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe – ooey gooey, pull-apart perfection for pasta night.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving the comforting flavors of Outback’s famous bread, this copycat recipe brings the same sweet, hearty experience straight to your table. With its bold molasses flavor and soft, rich crumb, Outback Steakhouse Bread is perfect for everything from steak night to snack time. Give it a try, and don’t forget to tag me @RitzyRecipes on Pinterest when you bake it!

What’s your favorite way to enjoy this bread? Leave a comment below—I’d love to hear!

Happy baking, friends

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