brioche recipes

Welcome to our guide on making Classic Brioche. This French bread is known for its rich, buttery flavor and soft, tender crumb. It’s perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or even as a decadent treat on its own. Let’s get started with this delightful recipe!

Ingredients

To prepare Classic Brioche, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 5 large eggs, room temperature
• 1/4 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened and cut into cubes
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the yeast mixture and eggs to the flour mixture. Mix on low speed until a dough forms.
4. Add Butter: Gradually add the softened butter, a few pieces at a time, mixing on medium speed until the butter is fully incorporated and the dough is smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes. The dough will be sticky.

Step 2: First Rise

1. Rise: Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape the Dough

1. Deflate Dough: Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
2. Shape: Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces if making individual rolls, or shape it into a loaf if making a single large brioche. Place the shaped dough pieces into a greased loaf pan or a greased muffin tin for individual rolls.

Step 4: Second Rise

1. Second Rise: Cover the shaped dough with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has puffed up.

Step 5: Bake the Brioche

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water for the egg wash. Brush the tops of the risen brioche with the egg wash.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes for individual rolls or 35-40 minutes for a loaf, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

1. Cool: Remove the brioche from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Serve: Serve the brioche warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect on its own or with butter, jam, or your favorite toppings.

Cooking Tips and Variations

• Chocolate Brioche: Add chocolate chips or a swirl of Nutella to the dough for a sweet variation.
• Savory Brioche: Add herbs, grated cheese, or garlic to the dough for a savory twist.
• Brioche Buns: Shape the dough into burger buns and bake for 15-20 minutes for delicious homemade brioche buns.
• Storing: Store leftover brioche in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Conclusion

Classic Brioche is a rich and buttery bread that’s perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures a soft and tender brioche every time. Enjoy making and savoring this delightful French bread with your family and friends.

Key Takeaway

Classic Brioche offers a delicious and versatile bread that’s perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or as a treat on its own. This easy recipe can be customized with various add-ins and flavors to suit your taste. Enjoy the rich, buttery, and tender results of this amazing brioche!