This brioche bread recipe produces a soft, rich, and buttery loaf that is perfect for everything from breakfast toast to gourmet sandwiches. Brioche is a classic French bread that is enriched with eggs and butter, giving it a tender crumb and a slightly sweet flavor. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just because you love homemade bread, this brioche bread recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
Ingredients for the brioche bread recipe:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 5 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Execution
Step-by-Step Method for the brioche bread recipe:
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until it becomes foamy and bubbly.
- Mix the dough: In a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, 5 eggs, and softened butter. Mix on low speed until the dough comes together, then increase the speed to medium and knead for 8-10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Let it rise: Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the dough: Punch down the dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a loaf. Place the loaves in greased loaf pans.
- Second rise: Cover the pans with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise again for 1 hour, until the loaves have puffed up.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the loaves with the beaten egg for a glossy finish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the loaves are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
- Cool and serve: Let the brioche loaves cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy fresh or toasted with butter and jam.
Tips:
For the best brioche bread recipe:
- Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature to ensure the dough mixes smoothly.
- Let the dough rise properly: Brioche dough is enriched with butter and eggs, so it may take longer to rise than traditional bread. Be patient and allow it to rise fully for the best texture.
- Make ahead: You can refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise, then shape and bake the loaves the next day for fresh brioche.
- Serve with: Brioche is perfect for French toast, sandwiches, or as a side with jam and butter. It also pairs beautifully with savory dishes like roasted meats.
FAQs:
- Can I make brioche dough by hand? Yes, if you don’t have a stand mixer, you can knead the dough by hand, but it will take longer (about 15 minutes) to achieve the right consistency.
- How do I store brioche bread? Store brioche at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
- Can I use brioche dough for rolls? Yes, you can divide the dough into smaller portions to make brioche rolls. Follow the same rising and baking instructions.
- What can I serve with brioche bread? Brioche is versatile and pairs well with sweet spreads like honey and jam, or savory ingredients like cheese and cured meats.
