Cheesecake Factory Brown Bread

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix together the 1 1/4 cups warm water, yeast, and 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar. Let proof for about 10 minutes, until bubbly and frothy.
2. In a large bowl or your stand mixer, add the 2 cups of flour, 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour, 2 teaspoons of cocoa powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix together.
3. Add the yeast mixture, along with the 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, 3 tablespoons of molasses, and 1/4 cup of honey.
4. Use the dough hook to mix all the ingredients together.
5. Keep kneading with the dough hook (or on a floured surface by hand) for 5-8 minutes. The dough should be pliable and not sticky.
6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and set in a warm place to rise for 1-2 hours, until doubled in size.
7. Punch down the dough and divide into four equal pieces.
8. On a floured cutting board or clean counter, press each piece into a rectangle. Fold a long edge toward the middle and press down.
9. Fold the opposite edge toward the middle and press down.
10. Repeat this process one or two more times, until your dough has lengthened to about six inches.
11. Turn the dough over and tuck the ends under.
12. Place on a parchment-lined or lightly greased large baking sheet. Depending on the size of your baking sheet, you may be able to get all four loaves on if you place them diagonally.
13. Slash each loaf diagonally four times.
14. Spray or brush with water, then sprinkle with rolled oats (optional).
15. Cover lightly with plastic wrap and allow to rise for about 30 minutes.
16. While bread is rising, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
17. After bread has risen, remove the plastic wrap and bake for 25 minutes.
18. Allow to cool on a wire rack.