Brioche

This recipe introduces a classic and indulgent bread called brioche. Known for its rich and buttery flavor, brioche is a versatile bread that can be enjoyed in various forms, such as sandwich bread, decorative loaf, or rolls. Its soft and tender texture makes it a delightful treat, and any leftover brioche can be transformed into delicious French Toast. This recipe provides step-by-step instructions to help you create two delicious loaves of brioche, perfect for any occasion.

MAKES: 2 loaves

TIME: At least 3 hours, largely unattended

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more as needed
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 8 tablespoons (1 stick) cold butter, cut into chunks, plus softened butter for the pan
• 3 eggs plus 1 yolk
• 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons milk

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a food processor, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Process for 5 seconds to mix the dry ingredients.
2. Add the cold butter and the whole eggs to the food processor. Process for 10 seconds until the ingredients are well combined.
3. While the machine is running, pour 1/2 cup of milk and 1/3 cup of water through the feed tube. Process for about 30 seconds until the dough forms. Remove the cover and check the consistency of the dough. It should be very sticky, similar to batter. If it is too dry, add water one tablespoon at a time and process for a few seconds after each addition. If it is too wet, add a tablespoon or two of flour and process briefly.
4. Grease a large bowl with softened butter and transfer the dough into it. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise for 2 to 3 hours, or until it has at least doubled in size.
5. Once the dough has risen, gently deflate it and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Shape the dough into two loaves, following the instructions for shaping sandwich bread. Place each loaf into a buttered 8×4-inch or 9×5-inch loaf pan. Alternatively, you can shape the dough into rolls as illustrated on page 855. Cover the pans or rolls and let them rise for about 1 hour.
6. Preheat the oven to 400°F. In a small bowl, mix the egg yolk with the remaining 2 tablespoons of milk. Brush the top of the loaves or rolls with this mixture.
7. Bake the brioche for approximately 30 minutes, or until they turn nicely browned. To check if they’re done, tap the bottom of the loaf (it should sound hollow) or use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the interior temperature reaches at least 190°F.
8. Once baked, remove the brioche from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.

Enjoy the heavenly aroma and delectable taste of homemade brioche. Whether you choose to enjoy it as a sandwich bread, a decorative loaf, or as rolls, this recipe will provide you with two loaves of indulgent brioche that are perfect for any occasion. Savor the rich and buttery flavor and delight in the soft and tender texture of this classic bread.