Ingredients and Quantities
Flour: 3 1/2 cups (440 g)
Granulated Sugar: 1/4 cup (50 g)
Salt: 1 teaspoon
Instant Yeast: 2 1/4 teaspoons
Whole Milk: 1/3 cup (80 ml), warmed
Large Eggs: 4, room temperature
Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (113 g), softened and cubed
Optional Additions
Sweet Additions: Chocolate chips, dried fruits, or a swirl of cinnamon sugar.
Savory Additions: Shredded cheese, herbs, or garlic.
Toppings: Sesame seeds, pearl sugar, or a honey glaze.
Tips for Success
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for smooth incorporation.
Proper Kneading: Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes with a stand mixer.
First Rise: Let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size for a light texture.
Chill Overnight (Optional): Chilling the dough overnight enhances flavor and makes it easier to handle.
Egg Wash: Brush with an egg wash before baking to achieve the signature golden crust.
Instructions
Prepare Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Add warm milk and eggs, mixing until a dough forms.
Incorporate Butter: Gradually add the butter, one piece at a time, kneading until fully incorporated.
First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
Shape the Dough: Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased loaf pan.
Second Rise: Cover and let rise again for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Egg Wash: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the dough with an egg wash (1 egg + 1 tablespoon water).
Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
Cool: Let cool before slicing and serving.
Description
This brioche loaf is soft, buttery, and slightly sweet, with a tender crumb and a glossy, golden crust. Its aroma is irresistibly rich, making it perfect for breakfast spreads, sandwiches, or enjoying on its own.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Approximate)
Calories: 190
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 180mg
Conclusion and Recommendation
Brioche is a timeless classic that elevates any meal with its rich flavor and delicate texture. It is perfect for holiday feasts, breakfast indulgences, or a comforting treat.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat flour, reducing the sugar, or substituting a portion of the butter with Greek yogurt.
These modifications maintain the richness while adding nutrients.
To store brioche and keep it fresh, follow these tips:
Cooling: Allow the brioche to cool completely after baking. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container.
Wrapping: Wrap the brioche tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to maintain moisture and prevents it from drying out.
Storage: Place the wrapped brioche in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This adds an extra layer of protection against air exposure.
Room Temperature: If you plan to consume the brioche within a few days, you can store it at room temperature. Just make sure it’s in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Refrigeration: If you want to store it for a longer period (up to a week), you can refrigerate it, but this may affect the texture slightly.
Freezing: For longer storage, brioche freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it at room temperature or warm it in the oven.
Enjoy