Steakhouse Brown Bread - Yum!

When we go out for a steak dinner we love it when they bring the bread basket and the whipped to the table.  Especially if there is a loaf of that lightly sweet brown bread in it.  As I've grown more confident with my bread baking skills I've enjoyed branching out and trying new ones.  This is what I came up with for my steakhouse style brown bread recipe.

Steakhouse Brown Bread

2 cups whole wheat flour

2 cups all purpose flour

1/4 cup sugar

1 tsp salt

2 Tbs baking cocoa

4 tsp yeast

1/4 cup dark molasses

1 egg

1 Tbs olive oil

1 -1 1/4 cup hot water

Select the dough cycle.  Place dry ingredients in pan and select start.  Add molasses, egg, water and oil.  Once dough forms a smooth ball (you may have to add a little flour or water depending on humidity) close lid and allow cycle to run completely.

Once finished remove dough from machine and knead lightly on a floured surface.  Dough should be smooth and not be sticky.  

Divide dough into three equal parts.  Shape into a round loaf and place on a lightly oiled baking sheet.  

Cut a cross on the top of each dough ball, if desired.

Cover with a tea towel and allow dough to raise until doubled in size in a warm draft free place, approximately one hour.

Bake loaf in a preheated 400° oven for 20 minutes.  Remove from oven and brush top with butter, if desired.

I like to brush with butter or spray with a little non stick cooking spray to keep the loaves soft.  If you prefer a crunchy crust just leave them alone.  Sliced and served with whipped butter is fantastic but we also think this would be excellent bread to use for tuna or ham sandwiches.