Ingredients
For the Tangzhong:
- 24 g all-purpose flour (approx. 3 tbsp.)
- 96 g whole milk (⅓ cup + 1 ½ tbsp.)
For the Brioche Dough:
- 80 g whole milk (around ⅓ cup)
- 1 tbsp. granulated sugar
- 1 ½ tsp. active dry yeast
- 220 g all-purpose flour (1 ¾ cup + 1 tbsp.)
- 1 tsp. salt
- 56 g unsalted butter, at room temperature and diced (about ¼ cup)
- 1 egg, at room temperature
For the Honey Butter Spread:
- 85 g unsalted butter, at room temperature (about ¼ cup + 2 tbsp.)
- ¼ tsp. salt
- 40 g honey (2 tbsp.)
Method
1. Tangzhong Preparation: a. Over medium heat in a small saucepan, whisk the flour and milk. Continue stirring until it becomes a thick paste. Once done, remove from heat and let it cool.
2. Brioche Dough: a. In a heat-proof measuring cup, warm the milk to about 100°F (38°C). Stir in the sugar and yeast. Allow to sit until it foams, approximately 5 minutes. b. In a stand mixer bowl equipped with a dough hook, combine the tangzhong, flour, salt, butter, and egg. Once the yeast mixture is ready, add it to the mixer. c. Start kneading on low for a minute, then switch to medium-high for about 10 minutes, until the dough clears the sides and passes the windowpane test. d. Mold the dough into a ball. Grease your mixing bowl lightly and place the dough back in, covering with a towel. Let it rise in a warm area until doubled in size, roughly 1 hour. e. Once risen, gently deflate the dough. Prepare a rectangular pan (9x7 inches) for 8 rolls or an 8x8-inch pan for 9 rolls. f. Divide the dough accordingly and form tight balls, placing them in the prepared pan. g. Seal the top with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. h. 30 minutes before baking, remove the rolls from the fridge. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Create an egg wash with 1 egg and 1 tbsp. milk, brushing it atop each roll. i. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until they have a golden-brown hue and reach an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C).
3. Honey Butter Spread: a. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and salt together until smooth. Integrate the honey and continue to beat until combined.
Serve your fresh brioche buns warm, paired with the delectable honey butter spread. Enjoy!