How to Make Brioche

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil provides a dairy-free option while margarine can reduce costs.

eggs

🥗Healthier: flaxseed meal

💰Cheaper: egg substitute

Flaxseed meal is a vegan alternative, while egg substitutes can be more economical.

In a stand mixer bowl, add 1/2 cup very warm water (about 110°F).

Add 3 - 3 and 1/8 teaspoons of active dry yeast to the water.

Add 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and whisk together.

Let the mixture sit for about five minutes to proof the yeast.

After five minutes, check that the yeast has foamed up.

Add 1 cup of melted unsalted butter (226 grams) to the yeast mixture.

Add 1.5 teaspoons of salt and whisk to combine.

Add 4 large beaten eggs to the mixture.

Add 4 cups of all-purpose flour to the bowl.

Using the dough hook on the stand mixer, mix on low speed to incorporate the flour.

Increase the speed and knead the dough for about 7-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Grease a large mixing bowl with shortening, oil, or vegetable spray.

Turn the dough out onto a work surface and check its stickiness; it should come out cleanly.

Form the dough into a ball by folding the edges underneath.

Place the dough seam side up in the greased bowl and cover with plastic wrap.

Let the dough rise in a warm location until it doubles in volume, about 90 minutes to 2 hours.

Once risen, deflate the dough gently and turn it out onto a non-floured work surface.

Cut the dough in half using a bench scraper or knife.

For each half, form it into a ball by folding the ends underneath to create surface tension.

Pat the dough into a circle that fits the bread pan, creating 'Mickey Mouse ears' by pulling out two parts of the circle.

Fold the ears in and roll the dough tightly, sealing the seam by karate chopping it.

Place the shaped dough into greased 8x4 inch bread pans.

Cover the pans loosely with cling film and let them rise until they just barely climb above the rim, about 20-30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 400°F after the dough has been rising for about 10-15 minutes.

Once risen, beat one egg yolk with about a tablespoon of heavy cream or milk for the egg wash.

Brush the egg wash over the tops of the loaves for a glossy finish.

Bake the loaves in the preheated oven at 400°F for about 30 minutes until deep golden brown.

Let the loaves cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens