This Milk Brioche is an incredibly soft, buttery, and fluffy bread that melts in your mouth like a cloud. Perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or simply enjoying with a pat of butter, this recipe is easy to follow and yields a bakery-worthy result every time. With its rich milk base, hint of sweetness, and luxurious texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Cloud-Like Texture: The combination of warm milk, yeast, and butter creates an impossibly soft and airy brioche.
- Versatile: Enjoy it plain, toasted, or as the base for sweet and savory creations.
- Perfect for Beginners: Simple steps and clear instructions make this recipe foolproof.
Ingredients:
- 500ml (2 cups) warm milk (lukewarm, not hot—about 110°F/43°C)
- 7g (1½ tsp) dry yeast
- 100g (½ cup) brown sugar
- 60ml (¼ cup) oil (vegetable, canola, or neutral oil works well)
- 1 tbsp vinegar (white or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 eggs
- 750g (6 cups) all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 50g (¼ cup) butter , melted and cooled
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk , dry yeast , and brown sugar . Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes , or until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates the yeast is active and ready to use.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
- Add the oil , vinegar , salt , and eggs to the yeast mixture. Whisk until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour , one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
- Once the dough starts to come together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes , adding small amounts of flour as needed to prevent sticking. The dough should be soft, smooth, and slightly tacky but not overly sticky.
Step 3: Add the Butter
- Incorporate the melted butter into the dough by kneading it in gradually. Continue kneading for another 3–5 minutes , until the dough becomes elastic, shiny, and pulls away cleanly from your hands.
- Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
Step 4: First Rise
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1–1.5 hours , or until it has doubled in size. To test if it’s ready, gently press your finger into the dough—if the indentation remains, it’s proofed.
Step 5: Shape the Brioche
- Punch down the risen dough to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Divide the dough into equal portions (about 8–12 pieces, depending on desired size). Roll each piece into a smooth ball.
- Place the shaped dough balls into a greased loaf pan (for a classic brioche loaf) or onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (for individual rolls). Leave space between each piece for expansion.
Step 6: Second Rise
- Cover the shaped dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise again for 30–45 minutes , or until puffy and nearly doubled in size.
Step 7: Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough is rising.
- Optional: Brush the tops of the dough with a beaten egg wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp water) for a shiny, golden crust.
- Bake the brioche for 25–30 minutes (for rolls) or 35–40 minutes (for a loaf), or until the top is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C) when measured with a thermometer.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack before slicing or serving.
Tips for Success:
- Warm Environment: If your kitchen is cold, place the dough in a slightly warmed (but turned-off) oven with a bowl of hot water nearby to create a warm, humid environment for rising.
- Storage: Store cooled brioche in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature for up to 3 days . For longer storage, freeze wrapped slices for up to 3 months .
- Customize: Add raisins, chocolate chips, or cinnamon sugar to the dough for a sweet twist.
Nutritional Information (per roll, makes 12):
- Calories: ~220
- Protein: ~5g
- Carbohydrates: ~35g
- Fat: ~8g
Enjoy this Milk Brioche as a soft, buttery, and irresistible treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Its melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor make it a standout bread that’s sure to impress!
