Cheesecake Factory Brown Bread Recipe
Love restaurant bread? This Cheesecake Factory Brown Bread Recipe uses whole wheat flour, yeast, honey, and molasses for perfect texture.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- Stand mixer with dough hook (or large bowl for hand kneading)
- Clean kitchen towel
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water about 110°F
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups bread flour
- 1½ cups whole wheat flour
Optional ingredients:
- Rolled oats for topping
- Extra butter for brushing after baking
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy and fragrant—this is how you know the yeast is alive and ready.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
- Stir in the honey, molasses, melted butter, cocoa powder, and salt. The mixture will turn a rich, dark brown and smell warm and slightly sweet.
Step 3: Add the Flours
- Gradually mix in the bread flour and whole wheat flour until a soft dough forms. It should be slightly tacky but not sticky.
Step 4: Knead Until Smooth
- Knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes by hand or 5–6 minutes with a mixer until smooth, elastic, and supple.
Step 5: First Rise
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Shape the Loaves
- Punch down the dough and divide it into small oval or log-shaped rolls, mimicking the restaurant-style presentation.
Step 7: Second Rise
- Place the shaped dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let rise for another 30–40 minutes until puffy.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes, until set and lightly firm on top. Avoid overbaking to keep the bread soft.
Step 9: Finish with Butter
- Brush warm bread generously with melted butter for that unmistakable Cheesecake Factory finish.