Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors and textures with these Lemon Poppy Seed Brioche Rolls, a sumptuous twist on the classic brioche. Infused with the zestiness of lemon and orange, and speckled with crunchy poppy seeds, each roll encases a tangy core of homemade lemon curd, offering a burst of citrus with every bite. These brioche rolls combine the soft, pillowy texture of traditional brioche with the vibrant, refreshing flavors of citrus and the unique addition of poppy seeds for an unforgettable treat.
Why You’ll Love This: These brioche rolls are the perfect balance between indulgence and refreshment. The dough is enriched with butter, making it incredibly soft and tender, while the lemon and orange zest add a fragrant aroma and bright flavor. The homemade lemon curd filling brings a lovely tanginess that cuts through the richness, and the poppy seeds provide an enjoyable crunch. Whether for a special breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea, these brioche rolls are sure to impress with their elegant appearance and exquisite taste.
Perfect Occasion: Perfect for spring celebrations, Easter brunch, or any occasion that calls for a special baked treat. They’re also wonderful for weekend breakfasts when you want to take the time to enjoy something truly special. Serve them at your next gathering to dazzle your guests with your baking skills and the rolls’ intricate flavors and textures.
Decoration Tips: For a beautiful finish, brush the rolls with beaten egg before baking to achieve a glossy, golden crust. After baking, a light drizzle of simple lemon icing or a dusting of powdered sugar can add a touch of sweetness and make them even more irresistible. Garnish the platter with fresh lemon zest and a few whole poppy seeds for a decorative touch that hints at the flavors inside.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 350g flour
- 130g milk, warmed
- 13g fresh baker’s yeast
- 8g salt
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 egg
- 50g sugar
- 90g butter, room temperature
- 40g poppy seeds
For the Lemon Curd:
- 2 eggs
- 200g water
- 100g lemon juice
- 80g sugar
- 30g flour
- 50g butter
Instructions:
- Dough Preparation: In a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine flour, milk, yeast, salt, lemon zest, orange zest, egg, and sugar. Knead for about 10 minutes. Add the butter and continue to knead until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl. Stir in the poppy seeds briefly, then let the dough rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Making the Lemon Curd: Boil water and lemon juice in a saucepan. Whisk eggs with sugar and flour in a separate bowl. Gradually add the boiling liquid to the egg mixture, whisking continuously. Return the mixture to the heat and cook until it thickens and boils. Remove from heat and stir in the butter. Cool completely.
- Assembly: Roll out the risen dough, spread evenly with the cooled lemon curd, then roll up the dough. Slice the roll into 3-4 cm wide pieces.
- Final Rise: Place the slices on a baking tray, allowing space for expansion. Let them rise again until doubled.
- Baking: Brush the rolls with beaten egg and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 30 minutes or until golden brown.
Enjoy these Lemon Poppy Seed Brioche Rolls, a delightful treat that marries the softness of brioche with the zesty sweetness of lemon curd and the distinctive crunch of poppy seeds for a truly special culinary experience.
