Description
There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen — especially when it’s this cozy, honey-sweetened wheat bread. Inspired by classic bakery loaves (and yes, those famous restaurant rolls we all love), this recipe delivers soft, slightly sweet slices with a warm molasses aroma and beautiful dark crust. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dinner side dishes — and totally Pinterest-worthy!
Ingredients
1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F) – activates the yeast just right for a perfect rise.
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet) – the key to that fluffy texture.
¼ cup honey – adds sweetness and moisture.
2 tablespoons molasses – gives the bread its signature dark color and rich depth.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – makes the crumb tender and flavorful.
1 cup whole wheat flour – adds heartiness and fiber.
2 cups bread flour – gives structure and chew.
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder – enhances the dark color and balances sweetness.
1 teaspoon instant espresso powder (optional) – deepens flavor without tasting like coffee.
1 teaspoon salt – brings out all the flavors.
Cornmeal, for dusting – helps prevent sticking and gives a rustic bakery look.
Instructions
Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, honey, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes, until foamy on top.
Add wet ingredients: Stir in molasses and melted butter until smooth and fragrant.
Mix dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together whole wheat flour, bread flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder (if using), and salt.
Combine & knead: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes (by hand or mixer) until smooth and elastic.
First rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Shape the loaves: Punch down the dough, divide in half, and shape into two loaves. Roll each loaf lightly in cornmeal for that signature Outback-style look.
Second rise: Place loaves on a baking sheet, cover loosely, and let rise another 30–45 minutes.
Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the tops are firm and slightly darkened.
Cool & serve: Let cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with softened butter or cinnamon honey butter.
Notes
Make it dairy-free: Swap butter for coconut oil or vegan butter.
Storage: Keeps well at room temperature for up to 3 days. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Flavor boost: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a sprinkle of oats on top before baking.
Perfect pairing: Try it alongside hearty soups or homemade chili for the ultimate comfort meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread, Baking, Comfort Food
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
