Copycat Cheesecake Factory Brown Bread: The Ultimate Guide

Craving that slightly sweet, subtly molasses-flavored brown bread served at The Cheesecake Factory? You’re not alone! It’s a beloved appetizer, and the good news is, you can recreate it at home. This copycat recipe captures the essence of the restaurant’s version, providing you with warm, delicious bread whenever you desire. Forget waiting in line; let’s bake!

## Why This Recipe Works

This copycat recipe aims for accuracy by focusing on the key elements that make Cheesecake Factory’s brown bread so unique:

* **Molasses:** The signature flavor comes from dark molasses, providing depth and sweetness.
* **Whole Wheat Flour:** Gives the bread its distinctive brown color and nutty flavor.
* **Oatmeal:** Adds texture and a subtle chewiness.
* **Coffee:** Enhances the chocolate notes and adds complexity to the overall flavor profile (don’t worry, you won’t taste coffee!).
* **Sweetness:** A balanced blend of molasses and brown sugar creates the perfect level of sweetness.
* **Moisture:** The addition of buttermilk and vegetable oil ensures a moist and tender crumb.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start, gather these ingredients. Measuring accurately is crucial for achieving the right flavor and texture.

* **Dry Ingredients:**
* 3 cups whole wheat flour
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1 cup rolled oats (not instant)
* 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* **Wet Ingredients:**
* 1/2 cup dark molasses
* 1/4 cup vegetable oil (canola or vegetable)
* 2 large eggs
* 1 3/4 cups buttermilk (see notes for substitutions)
* 1 cup hot strong brewed coffee

## Equipment Needed

* Two 9×5 inch loaf pans
* Mixing bowls (large and medium)
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Whisk
* Rubber spatula
* Cooling rack
* Optional: Stand mixer with dough hook

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions for perfect copycat Cheesecake Factory brown bread.

**Step 1: Prepare the Loaf Pans**

Grease and flour your 9×5 inch loaf pans. Alternatively, line them with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

**Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients**

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Make sure everything is evenly distributed.

**Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients**

In a separate medium mixing bowl, whisk together the molasses, vegetable oil, eggs, and buttermilk until well combined. Add the hot coffee and whisk again to incorporate.

**Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently fold the mixture together using a rubber spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few streaks of flour are okay. Overmixing will result in a tough bread.

**Step 5: Divide the Batter**

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans. The batter will be quite thick.

**Step 6: Bake the Bread**

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. If the tops of the loaves are browning too quickly, you can tent them loosely with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.

**Step 7: Cool the Bread**

Let the loaves cool in the pans for 10-15 minutes before transferring them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely. This prevents the bread from sticking to the pan and allows it to cool evenly.

**Step 8: Slice and Serve**

Once the bread is completely cooled, slice it with a serrated knife. Serve warm or at room temperature with softened butter, honey, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. You can also enjoy it plain!

## Tips for Success

* **Don’t Overmix:** Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to a tough bread. Mix until just combined.
* **Use Fresh Ingredients:** Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for optimal leavening.
* **Measure Accurately:** Baking is a science, so accurate measurements are crucial for the best results.
* **Temperature Matters:** Make sure your wet ingredients are at room temperature (except for the hot coffee) for better emulsification.
* **Cool Completely:** Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to prevent it from crumbling.
* **Buttermilk Substitute:** If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 3/4 tablespoons of lemon juice or white vinegar to a measuring cup. Fill the cup with milk until it reaches the 1 3/4 cup mark. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
* **Coffee Substitute:** If you prefer to avoid coffee altogether, you can substitute it with hot water. However, the coffee does enhance the flavor, so it’s recommended if you’re aiming for the most authentic copycat flavor.

## Variations and Additions

* **Nuts:** Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the batter for added texture and flavor.
* **Raisins:** Stir in 1/2 cup of raisins or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness and chewiness.
* **Chocolate Chips:** Add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
* **Spices:** Experiment with other spices like cardamom, cloves, or ginger.
* **Orange Zest:** Add 1 tablespoon of orange zest for a bright and citrusy flavor.
* **Maple Syrup:** Substitute some of the brown sugar with maple syrup for a richer, more complex sweetness.

## Serving Suggestions

* **Butter and Honey:** The classic pairing! Spread softened butter and drizzle with honey for a simple and satisfying treat.
* **Cream Cheese:** Top with cream cheese for a tangy and creamy complement to the sweet bread.
* **Cinnamon Sugar:** Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for a sweet and spiced topping.
* **Savory Toppings:** Try it with savory toppings like avocado and a sprinkle of salt and pepper for a unique twist.
* **Soup and Salad:** Serve it as a side with your favorite soup or salad.
* **Sandwiches:** Use it to make delicious sandwiches with your favorite fillings.

## Storage Instructions

* **Room Temperature:** Store the cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
* **Refrigerator:** For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Let it come to room temperature before serving, or warm it slightly in the microwave or oven.
* **Freezer:** To freeze, slice the bread and wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer bag or airtight container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator before serving. You can also toast the frozen slices directly from the freezer.

## Troubleshooting

* **Bread is too dry:** Make sure you’re measuring the ingredients accurately. Too much flour or not enough liquid can result in a dry bread. Also, avoid overbaking.
* **Bread is too dense:** Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense bread. Mix until just combined. Also, ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh.
* **Bread is not rising:** Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh. Also, avoid opening the oven door frequently during baking, as this can cause the bread to collapse.
* **Bread is browning too quickly:** Tent the loaves loosely with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
* **Bread is sticking to the pan:** Make sure you grease and flour the loaf pans thoroughly or line them with parchment paper.

## Nutritional Information (approximate, per slice)

* Calories: 250-300
* Fat: 8-12g
* Saturated Fat: 1-2g
* Cholesterol: 30-40mg
* Sodium: 250-350mg
* Carbohydrates: 40-50g
* Fiber: 4-6g
* Sugar: 15-20g
* Protein: 5-7g

*Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

## Conclusion

This copycat Cheesecake Factory brown bread recipe is a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy a restaurant favorite at home. With its unique flavor and moist texture, it’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Enjoy!

## Recipe Card

**Copycat Cheesecake Factory Brown Bread**

**Yields:** 2 loaves
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 50-60 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 3 cups whole wheat flour
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1 cup rolled oats (not instant)
* 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/2 cup dark molasses
* 1/4 cup vegetable oil (canola or vegetable)
* 2 large eggs
* 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
* 1 cup hot strong brewed coffee

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9×5 inch loaf pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together molasses, oil, eggs, and buttermilk. Add hot coffee and whisk to combine.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared loaf pans.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool in pans for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Slice and serve with butter, honey, or your favorite toppings.

Enjoy your homemade Cheesecake Factory Brown Bread!