Copycat Cheesecake Factory Brown Bread Recipe: Recreate This Popular Bread at Home

Learn how to make this copycat Cheesecake Factory brown bread recipe at home. This honey wheat brown bread loaf is a popular recipe that uses whole wheat flour to create delicious bread loaves just like at the restaurant.

Cheesecake Factory Brown Bread Copycat Recipe

This Cheesecake Factory-inspired brown bread is slightly sweet with a soft, tender crumb and a sprinkle of oats on top. The combination of molasses, honey, and whole wheat flour gives it a deep, rich flavor, making it the perfect accompaniment to any meal or just as a delicious snack.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesecake Factory Brown Bread Copycat Recipe

If you’ve ever dined at the Cheesecake Factory, you’re probably familiar with their famous brown bread. This honey wheat brown bread is so delicious that many people go to the restaurant just to enjoy the bread basket! With this easy copycat recipe, you can make this popular bread at home and enjoy it fresh from the oven. The rich brown color, slightly sweet taste, and soft texture make it a favorite bread for many. Plus, making bread at home is a rewarding experience that fills your home with the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread.

Ingredients Needed for the Bread Recipe

To make this Cheesecake Factory brown bread copycat recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• For the Bread:
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water (100-110°F)
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons molasses
  • 2 tablespoons softened butter
  • 2 cups whole wheat flour
  • 1 3/4 cups bread flour (or all-purpose flour)
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder (optional, for color depth)
• For the Topping:
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1/4 cup rolled oats (for sprinkling)

These ingredients combine to create the unique flavor and texture of the Cheesecake Factory’s brown bread. The combination of bread flour and whole wheat flour gives the bread a perfect balance between softness and heartiness.

Step-by-Step Guide to Make Cheesecake Factory Brown Bread

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warm water, honey, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

Add the molasses and softened butter to the yeast mixture. Stir until the butter is melted and the ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the bread flour, whole wheat flour, cocoa powder, brown sugar, instant espresso powder, and salt. Make sure the dry ingredients are thoroughly mixed to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Step 4: Mix the Dough

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed if using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment. If mixing by hand, use a wooden spoon until the dough comes together.

Step 5: Knead the Dough

Knead the dough for about 10 minutes using the stand mixer or your hands on a floured surface. The dough should be smooth and elastic but may still stick to your hands slightly due to the molasses and honey.

Step 6: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 7: Shape the Loaves

Punch down the risen dough and divide it into four equal pieces. Using your hands, shape each piece into a loaf or baguette shape. Place the loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If desired, sprinkle oats on top of each loaf and gently press them into the dough.

Step 8: Second Rise

Cover the shaped loaves with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.

Step 9: Bake the Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the loaves have a hollow sound when tapped on the bottom. The bread should have a rich brown color and be firm to the touch.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack. Slice and serve warm with butter, or use it to make sandwiches. Enjoy your homemade Cheesecake Factory brown bread!

Using a Bread Machine to Make This Recipe

If you have a bread machine, you can simplify the process:

• Add the wet ingredients to the bread machine pan first.
• Then add the dry ingredients on top, making a small well for the yeast.
• Set the bread machine to the dough cycle.
• Once the cycle is complete, shape the dough into loaves and proceed with the second rise and baking as above.

Tips for Perfecting the Taste of This Bread

• Espresso Powder: The addition of instant espresso powder or coffee powder enhances the chocolate flavor from the cocoa powder and deepens the color of the bread.
• Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder for the best results. It contributes to the bread’s rich brown color without making it taste like chocolate.
• Molasses and Honey: These ingredients give the bread its signature sweetness and moist texture. Brown sugar adds to the depth of flavor.
• Flour: Using a combination of bread flour and whole wheat flour provides a balance between a tender crumb and hearty texture.
• Kneading: Proper kneading develops the gluten in the dough, which is essential for the bread’s structure.
• Rising Time: Allowing the dough to double in size during both rises ensures a light and airy bread.

Frequently Asked Questions About Brown Bread from Cheesecake Factory

Can I make this bread without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! You can mix and knead the dough by hand. It might take a bit more effort, but using your hands to knead the dough can be quite therapeutic.

What if I don’t have instant espresso powder?

You can substitute with finely ground coffee powder or omit it entirely. The bread will still be delicious, but the espresso powder does enhance the flavor and color.

Can I use a bread machine for the entire process?

Yes, you can bake the bread entirely in a bread machine. However, baking the loaves in the oven gives you more control over the shape and crust of the bread.

How do I store the bread?

Place cooled bread in an airtight container or wrap in plastic wrap. It will stay fresh at room temperature for 2-3 days. For longer storage, freeze the bread and thaw before serving.

Can I make rolls instead of loaves?

Yes, you can shape the dough into rolls instead of loaves. Adjust the baking time to about 15-20 minutes or until the rolls are baked through.

Is this bread similar to normal white bread?

While it shares some basic ingredients with white bread, this brown bread has a unique flavor profile due to the molasses, honey, cocoa powder, and whole wheat flour.

Taking My Cheesecake Factory Bread To Go

Making this Cheesecake Factory brown bread copycat recipe at home is a delightful experience. Not only do you get to enjoy fresh, delicious bread, but you also get the satisfaction of creating a popular recipe from scratch. This bread is amazing when served warm with butter, and it makes a ton of bread, so you can share with friends and family.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying your first bread recipe, this step-by-step recipe is easy to follow. The combination of bread flour and whole wheat flour, along with brown sugar and honey, gives the bread a rich flavor that is hard to resist. So, try this recipe today and bring the taste of the Cheesecake Factory’s brown bread to your kitchen!

The Best Cheesecake Factory Brown Bread Recipe You Ever Did Try!