Introduction:

Brioche bread, with its rich and tender crumb, is one of the most delectable types of bread you can make at home. In this article, we will guide you through an easy-to-follow brioche bread recipe that is sure to impress your friends and family alike. Let’s learn how to make the best brioche bread ever!

Ingredients:

– 1/4 cup (60 ml) warm milk, about 110°F (45°C)

– 2 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast

– 1/3 cup (75g) sugar

– 4 cups (480g) all-purpose flour

– 1 teaspoon (6g) salt

– 4 large eggs, room temperature

– 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened and cut into pieces

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix the warm milk with the yeast and a pinch of sugar. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2. In a separate large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and remaining sugar. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients.

3. Pour the frothy yeast mixture into the well of the dry ingredients. Add in the eggs one by one while mixing with a wooden spoon or an electric mixer fitted with a dough hook attachment.

4. Continue to mix the dough until it forms a sticky ball. Gradually add the softened butter by incorporating small chunks at a time. Ensure each addition is fully mixed in before adding more.

5. Knead the dough on low speed for about 10 minutes using your electric mixer or approximately 15 minutes if using your hands on a lightly floured surface.

6. Once your dough has formed a smooth and elastic consistency, gently shape it into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1.5 to 2 hours until it doubles in size.

7. After rising, lightly punch down the dough to release trapped air. Divide the dough into equal portions and shape each one into the desired brioche form (braids, buns, or loaves)

8. Place shaped brioches on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in appropriately shaped bake ware. Cover them again with a clean towel and let them rise for an additional 45 minutes to 1 hour.

9. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush the surface of each brioche with a mixture of one beaten egg yolk and 1 tablespoon of milk for a golden shine.

10. Bake the brioches for approximately 20-30 minutes (depending on the size), or until they have turned a beautiful golden brown. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean.

11. Allow your brioches to cool on a wire rack before indulging in their buttery, rich taste!

Conclusion:

Mastering this best brioche bread recipe may require some practice, but once you’ve got it down, you’ll have an impressive addition to your baking repertoire. Take your time, pay attention to detail, and enjoy the incredible aroma of freshly baked brioche bread filling your kitchen!