Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups bread flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Topping:
- 1 tablespoon cornmeal (for dusting)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and honey, then sprinkle in the yeast. Let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step ensures your yeast is active and will help the bread rise properly.
Once the yeast is activated, stir in the molasses and vegetable oil until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, 1 1/2 cups of bread flour, cocoa powder, and salt. The cocoa powder helps achieve the signature dark brown color.
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon or using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment. Mix until a sticky dough forms. If the dough is too wet, gradually add more bread flour (up to 2 cups total) until it comes together into a soft, slightly tacky dough.
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook on low speed for 5 to 6 minutes.
Place the dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into an oval or log shape, about 8 inches long. Lightly sprinkle cornmeal on a baking sheet and place the shaped loaves on top.
Cover the shaped loaves loosely with plastic wrap or a towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes until slightly puffed.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the loaves have risen, bake them for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the crust is firm and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Remove from the oven and allow the loaves to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with butter for an authentic Outback experience!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Rise Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 7g
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g