Description
This soft brioche bread recipe is rich, buttery, and perfect for breakfast or brunch, evoking nostalgia of home-cooked goodness.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose or bread flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk (warmed to about 110°F)
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened and cut into chunks)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, add flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture, followed by the eggs. Mix until the dough starts to come together.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead for about 10 minutes, adding in the softened butter gradually, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm environment for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Punch down the dough gently and turn it out onto a floured surface. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and tablespoon of milk. Brush the mixture over the loaf. Preheat the oven to 350°F and let the dough rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Use room-temperature eggs for better rising, and ensure the milk is at the right temperature to activate the yeast.