Cheesecake Factory Brown Bread Recipe
The Cheesecake Factory’s brown bread is a fan favorite for a reason. It’s got that rich flavor, just the right amount of sweetness, and a soft texture that goes with pretty much anything. Whether you’re slathering it with butter, using it for a sandwich, or just eating it straight (no judgment here), this bread adds a little something special to every meal.
Equipment
- Bread Machine
- Parchment paper
- Baking Sheet
- Basting Brush
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- Warm Water – 1 cup 110°F to activate the yeast
- Bread Flour – 2 ½ cups
- Whole Wheat Flour – 1 ½ cups
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – 2 tbsp for that iconic deep brown color
- Molasses – ¼ cup this is key to achieving the right sweetness
- Honey – 2 tbsp
- Vegetable Oil – 2 tbsp
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Active Dry Yeast – 2 ¼ tsp
Additional Toppings
- Rolled Oats – ¼ cup for sprinkling on top
Instructions
Step 1: Gather the Ingredients
- Start by collecting all the ingredients you need and measure them carefully. This step is important to get the right taste and texture. Make sure your dry yeast is fresh and active, as it helps the bread rise. Keep wet and dry ingredients separate to make mixing easier later.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients in the Bread Machine
- Pour the wet ingredients, like water and molasses, into the bread machine pan first. Then, add the dry ingredients on top. Sprinkle the yeast last, making sure it doesn’t touch the liquids right away. Set your bread machine to the dough cycle, which will mix and proof the dough for you.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
- When the dough cycle is done, take the dough out and place it on a lightly floured surface. Divide it into equal pieces and shape each one into a small, long loaf like Cheesecake Factory’s brown bread. Handle the dough gently to keep it soft and airy.
Step 4: Add Oats on Top
- Put the shaped loaves on a baking sheet with parchment paper. Brush the tops with water or melted butter to help the oats stick. Sprinkle oats on each loaf for texture and a classic look. Let the loaves rest for 15-20 minutes while the oven heats up.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the loaves for 20-25 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and smells slightly sweet. Keep an eye on the bread near the end to avoid overbaking. When done, take the loaves out of the oven and cool them on a wire rack.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Once the bread has cooled, it’s ready to eat. Serve it with butter or use it for sandwiches. The sweet and hearty flavor is perfect for any occasion. Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Enjoy!
Notes
This recipe works best when you use fresh ingredients and allow enough time for the dough to rise properly. Be mindful of your kitchen’s temperature, as it plays a vital role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Patience is key—don’t rush the process for the best results!