How to Make Outback Bread Recipe (Sweet Molasses Bread)

Are you ready for a baking adventure that’s simple, fun, and oh-so-delicious? If you’re looking for a warm, comforting recipe to fill your home with irresistible smells, look no further! This Outback Bread Recipe (Sweet Molasses Bread) is exactly what you need. It’s not only easy to make, but it’s also packed with wholesome ingredients that make it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is foolproof and guarantees a delicious result every time.

Now, here’s where the fun begins: imagine pulling a golden, sweet-smelling loaf out of your oven, ready to be sliced and enjoyed. With a perfect balance of rich molasses and a soft, fluffy texture, this bread is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as a side to any meal. And if you’re looking for more baking inspiration, check out this Copycat Starbucks Lemon Loaf Recipe for a tangy treat or this Cheat’s Sourdough Guide to master the art of sourdough with ease.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and let’s dive into this amazing recipe—you’re going to love how easy and tasty it is!

The History Behind Molasses in Baking

The Sweet Legacy of Molasses in Traditional Recipes

Molasses has been a beloved ingredient in baking for centuries. Its deep, rich flavor makes it a key element in many traditional recipes. In fact, molasses was commonly used in the early days of baking to sweeten bread and cakes. It was readily available, affordable, and added a touch of warmth and complexity to recipes. Over time, it became a staple ingredient in many baked goods, including the Outback Bread Recipe (Sweet Molasses Bread). The versatility of molasses is unmatched, making it perfect for all kinds of breads, cookies, and cakes. For example, you can use it in a simple no-oven stovetop bread recipe or even experiment with a decadent double chocolate focaccia recipe. Its sweetness blends seamlessly with other ingredients, creating a balanced flavor profile that’s both comforting and satisfying. By incorporating molasses into your baking, you’re not just following a recipe—you’re connecting to a rich culinary tradition.

Why Molasses is a Key Ingredient in Outback Bread

Molasses is not only flavorful but also adds important nutrients to the Outback Bread Recipe (Sweet Molasses Bread). It provides a natural sweetness without the need for refined sugar, giving your bread a warm, earthy flavor. Molasses is rich in iron, calcium, and magnesium, making it a healthier alternative to other sweeteners. It also helps keep the bread moist, contributing to a soft and fluffy texture. The addition of molasses in this recipe ensures a deep, complex flavor that you’ll love with every bite. Here’s a quick look at why molasses is such a great choice for bread-making:

Benefits of Molasses in Baking	Explanation
Natural Sweetness	Adds flavor without refined sugar
Moisture	Helps keep the bread soft and fluffy
Nutritional Value	Rich in vitamins and minerals
Long Shelf Life	Keeps bread fresh for longer

How to Achieve the Perfect Texture in Sweet Molasses Bread

The Role of Flour in Creating a Soft and Fluffy Loaf

When making the Outback Bread Recipe (Sweet Molasses Bread), choosing the right flour is key to achieving a soft and fluffy texture. All-purpose flour works best as it provides the right balance of structure and tenderness. Flour helps create the foundation for the bread’s texture, allowing it to rise properly without being too dense. In addition, flour absorbs moisture from ingredients like molasses, ensuring that the bread doesn’t become too wet or sticky. The right amount of flour also supports the development of gluten, which contributes to the bread’s airy texture. Be sure to measure your flour carefully to avoid overuse, which can lead to a heavier loaf. This step is crucial to ensure that your bread is as light and fluffy as possible, so don’t skip it!

Techniques for Kneading Dough to Enhance Bread Texture

Kneading the dough properly is a crucial step in making Sweet Molasses Bread. It helps develop the gluten, which is responsible for creating that soft, airy texture. Here are some techniques to improve your kneading process:

Knead for about 8-10 minutes: This ensures the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Use the right pressure: Apply firm, but not excessive, pressure while kneading.
Don’t rush the process: Allow the dough to rise properly after kneading for the best texture.
Keep hands lightly floured: This prevents the dough from sticking to your hands and work surface.
Let the dough rest: Allow the dough to relax after kneading to avoid overworking it.

Kneading Tips	How It Helps
8-10 minutes of kneading	Develops gluten for softness
Gentle, firm pressure	Creates an even, smooth dough
Resting dough	Allows the dough to relax and rise

Variations of Outback Bread for Different Taste Preferences

Adding Nuts and Seeds for Extra Crunch

If you love a little crunch in your bread, you can easily modify the Outback Bread Recipe (Sweet Molasses Bread) by adding nuts and seeds. Walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds all make great additions. Not only do they enhance the flavor, but they also provide extra texture and nutritional benefits. Nuts and seeds are packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making them a great choice for those looking to add a bit more to their bread. Plus, the addition of seeds like chia or flax can help give the bread a unique look and even more nutritional value. Experiment with different combinations of nuts and seeds to create your perfect version of Outback Bread!

Incorporating Dried Fruits for a Sweet Twist

For a fun and fruity twist, try adding dried fruits to your Outback Bread Recipe (Sweet Molasses Bread). You can use raisins, cranberries, or even dried apricots for a sweet surprise in each bite. Here are some ideas for incorporating dried fruits into your bread:

Raisins: Classic and sweet, they add natural sweetness to the bread.
Cranberries: A tart contrast to the molasses, they give the bread an exciting flavor.
Dried apricots: Offer a chewy texture and a sweet, tropical touch.
Figs: Adds a rich, dense sweetness for those who enjoy a deep flavor.

Dried Fruits to Try in Bread	Flavor Profile
Raisins	Sweet, familiar taste
Cranberries	Tart, refreshing contrast
Dried apricots	Sweet, tropical, and chewy

Storing and Reheating Outback Bread for Freshness

Best Practices for Storing Leftover Sweet Molasses Bread

After enjoying your Outback Bread Recipe (Sweet Molasses Bread), you’ll want to store any leftovers properly to keep the bread fresh. The best way to store your bread is to wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or place it in an airtight container. This helps preserve the bread’s moisture while preventing it from drying out. You can store the bread at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing the bread to maintain its freshness. Just make sure to slice it before freezing, so you can take out only what you need. This way, you’ll have fresh, soft bread whenever you want!

Reheating Methods to Maintain Softness and Flavor

Reheating your Sweet Molasses Bread is simple, and it ensures the bread stays soft and flavorful. Here are a few methods to reheat your leftovers:

Oven: Wrap the bread in foil and bake at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Microwave: Place a damp paper towel around the bread and heat in 30-second intervals.
Toaster: Slice the bread and lightly toast it for a warm, crispy exterior.
Stovetop: Heat slices in a pan over low heat for a few minutes.

Reheating Method	How It Keeps Bread Fresh
Oven (350°F, 10 minutes)	Maintains moisture and soft texture
Microwave with damp towel	Quick and easy, retains softness
Toaster (lightly toasted)	Crispy outside, soft inside

Time to roll up your sleeves and bake this sweet, molasses-loaded goodness! Let’s get started!

Ingredients

First up, let’s talk about the ingredients that will turn your kitchen into a bakery! Each one plays a vital role in making this loaf soft, sweet, and irresistibly delicious.

Water – The base for your dough! This ingredient helps bring everything together, creating that perfect texture. Lukewarm water will activate the yeast and get things rolling.
Vegan Honey or Maple Syrup – A sweet alternative to regular sugar, these add that warm, comforting sweetness to your bread. Vegan honey also gives it a slight floral note, balancing perfectly with the rich molasses.
Molasses – The star of the show! This is what gives the Outback Bread Recipe (Sweet Molasses Bread) its deep, dark color and distinctive flavor. It adds a touch of caramel-like sweetness that makes the bread a standout.
All-Purpose Flour – This is the backbone of your dough. It creates the right structure for your bread, allowing it to rise beautifully without being too heavy.
Whole Wheat Flour – This adds texture and a slightly nutty flavor to your loaf. Plus, it gives a little extra nutritional punch compared to all-purpose flour alone!
Cocoa Powder – A small amount goes a long way, adding depth and a subtle chocolatey hint to the bread, which balances the sweetness of the molasses.
Instant Yeast – The magic behind that lovely rise! Instant yeast works quickly, helping the dough become light and fluffy. It’s easy to use and doesn’t need any proofing!
Salt – A pinch of salt balances the sweetness, enhancing all the flavors and ensuring the bread isn’t overly sugary.
Oil – This ingredient adds moisture and softness to the bread. You can use vegetable oil or any mild oil of your choice.
Cornmeal – Used for dusting, cornmeal helps prevent sticking while also giving the rolls a deliciously crispy bottom.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the fun part—baking your own Outback Bread Recipe (Sweet Molasses Bread)!

Mix the Dry Ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, cocoa powder, salt, and instant yeast. This step is super important to evenly distribute the dry ingredients and make sure everything mixes well.

Mixing dry ingredients for sweet molasses bread in a bowl on a white marble counter

Add the Wet Ingredients – Pour in the lukewarm water, vegan honey or maple syrup, molasses, and oil. Stir everything together until it forms a sticky dough. The molasses and syrup will create a lovely, rich texture.

Adding wet ingredients to dry ingredients for sweet molasses bread dough

Knead the Dough – Now, knead! Whether using a stand mixer or your hands, knead the dough for 8-10 minutes if using a mixer, or 12-15 minutes by hand. Kneading is key to developing the gluten and giving your bread its chewy, soft texture.

Kneading dough for sweet molasses bread on a white marble counter.

Let It Rise – Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 ½ hours. The dough should double in size. This step lets the yeast do its magic, creating a fluffy loaf.

Sweet molasses bread dough rising in a bowl on a white marble counter.

Shape and Second Rise – After the dough rises, deflate it gently and divide it into 4 pieces. Roll each piece into a rectangle, then roll them up into cylinders and pinch the seams. Place them on a lined baking sheet dusted with cornmeal and let them rise for another 40 minutes. The dough should puff up nicely during this rise.

Shaping sweet molasses bread dough into rolls on a white marble counter.

Bake – Preheat your oven to 350°F. Once the rolls have risen, place them in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until golden brown. The house will smell amazing during this time!

Freshly baked sweet molasses bread cooling on a wire rack

Cool and Serve – Let the bread cool for about 20 minutes before slicing. The cool-down time is crucial for letting the flavors settle in. Serve the soft molasses bread warm, or store it in an airtight container for later.

Beautifully presented sweet molasses bread loaf on a white marble counter.

Serving

This recipe serves 4-6 people, depending on how big your slices are! The Outback Bread Recipe (Sweet Molasses Bread) is perfect served warm with a pat of vegan butter or as a side for soups and stews.

Serving Suggestions: Enjoy this bread on its own or use it to make delicious sandwiches. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
Optional Garnishes: Try sprinkling a little more cornmeal on top before baking for an extra bit of crunch, or drizzle with a touch of maple syrup for an even sweeter finish.

Beautifully presented sweet molasses bread loaf

For a fun twist, why not add some chopped nuts or seeds before baking? This adds texture and flavor, making it even more irresistible!

Tips and Hacks

Tip 1 – If you want your bread extra fluffy, make sure to knead it thoroughly! Proper kneading helps develop gluten, making the bread soft and airy.
Tip 2 – Add a touch more molasses for a richer, deeper flavor. You can even experiment with using different types of molasses (light or dark) for subtle changes in taste.
Tip 3 – You can make this recipe your own! Add some chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruit for added texture and flavor. The possibilities are endless!
Tip 4 – Store your bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it in a bag or container.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size: 1 roll
Calories: 180
Fat: 4g
Carbs: 32g
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 250mg
Fiber: 3g

Please note: These values are estimated based on ingredient brands and portion sizes. The calorie count will vary depending on exact measurements.

Prep Time

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 2 hours (including rise time)

Please note: Prep time may vary slightly depending on your experience and kitchen tools. But don’t worry, the wait will be worth it!

What to Serve with Copycat Outback Bread (Soft Molasses Loaf)

Grilled Potato Wedges Recipe: A perfect crispy side dish with a hint of smoky flavor.
Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Chicken: A rich and savory main course to pair with the bread.
Easy Pear Salad Recipe: A refreshing and sweet contrast to the molasses loaf.
Clam Chowder Bread Bowls Recipe: Ideal for dipping the soft loaf into creamy, hearty soup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is squaw bread the same as brown bread?

Not exactly, but they’re like cousins! Squaw bread is slightly sweeter and softer than traditional brown bread. It’s made with molasses, which gives it that rich flavor and dark color. Brown bread, on the other hand, often has a more earthy, hearty taste. Both are delicious, but squaw bread feels more like a treat. If you love sweet molasses bread, you’ll adore squaw bread too!

Is squaw bread the same as rye?

Nope, they’re quite different! Squaw bread has molasses and sometimes honey, which makes it sweet and soft. Rye bread is denser and has a stronger, tangy flavor because of the rye flour. If you’re craving something sweet to pair with butter, squaw bread is the winner. But if you want a robust bread for savory dishes, rye is a great choice!

What does squaw bread taste like to eat?

It’s like a cozy hug for your taste buds! Squaw bread is sweet, soft, and full of warm molasses flavor. It has a slight hint of nuttiness from whole grains, making it rich but not overwhelming. You’ll love how it pairs with creamy butter or a drizzle of honey. It’s perfect for soups, sandwiches, or just enjoying on its own.

Why is squaw bread dark?

The secret is molasses! This natural sweetener gives squaw bread its signature dark color and rich flavor. Sometimes, a touch of cocoa powder is added too, which deepens the color even more. Don’t worry, though—it’s not chocolatey! The dark color doesn’t mean it’s heavy. Instead, it’s soft, light, and oh-so-yummy. It’s like a delicious little surprise in every slice!

Enjoy Your Homemade Outback Bread with Family and Friends

Congratulations! You’ve just learned how to make your very own Outback Bread recipe (sweet molasses bread). First, picture the joy of pulling a warm, golden loaf from your oven. Then, imagine the smiles as you serve it to your loved ones. This bread is soft, sweet, and perfect for any occasion. In addition, it pairs wonderfully with butter, honey, or jam. Plus, making it yourself adds a personal touch that store-bought bread just can’t match. Sharing this treat is like sharing a piece of happiness. Also, the recipe is simple enough to make anytime you want. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner or a special celebration, this bread will steal the show.

If you’re looking for another low-carb and gluten-free option, check out this Cloud Bread Pizza recipe. It’s a delicious alternative that’s just as easy to make and perfect for those with dietary restrictions.

So, get baking and enjoy every delicious bite. You’ll love how easy and fun it is to create this classic, sweet molasses bread right in your own kitchen!