Indulge in the delightful flavors of this homemade brioche, a rich and tender loaf enriched with butter and eggs, and subtly flavored with orange blossom water. This recipe creates a generously sized brioche, perfect for slicing and sharing. You can choose to add chocolate chips for a sweet twist or pearl sugar for a crunchier texture. Each ingredient works together to produce a brioche that’s not only fluffy and light but also deeply satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This:
The brioche’s buttery richness and the aromatic hint of orange blossom water make it a luxurious treat that’s hard to resist. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a breakfast or brunch spread, this brioche offers a perfect balance of sweetness and softness, making every bite a pleasure. The addition of chocolate chips or pearl sugar adds an extra layer of texture and flavor that will delight any palate.
Perfect Occasion:
This brioche is ideal for special breakfasts, celebratory brunches, or as a comforting snack. It’s a fantastic addition to holiday meals, or when hosting a weekend gathering with friends and family. Additionally, it makes a wonderful gift, offering a touch of homemade luxury to someone special.
Decoration Tips:
Before baking, brush the loaf with an egg wash to achieve a shiny, golden crust. Sprinkling pearl sugar or arranging chocolate chips on top not only adds flavor but also makes the loaf visually appealing. For a festive touch, you can even weave in some sliced almonds or a light drizzle of honey over the crust before baking.
Ingredients:
- 500g flour
- 2 eggs
- 80g sugar
- 80g soft butter
- 1.5 tbsp orange blossom water (or vanilla extract)
- 10-12g dry yeast
- 8g salt
- 180-220g milk
- Chocolate chips or pearl sugar for topping
Method:
- Prepare the Yeast:
- Dissolve the yeast in a small amount of lukewarm milk and let it sit for 10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix the Dough:
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine all the dry ingredients. Add the eggs, orange blossom water, and yeast mixture.
- Gradually add the milk, mixing until a smooth dough forms. Be careful not to add too much, as the dough should not be too sticky.
- Knead for about 3 minutes.
- Incorporate the Butter:
- Gradually add the soft butter, previously cut into pieces, and knead for an additional 10 minutes until the dough is elastic and glossy.
- First Rise:
- Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1.5 to 2 hours, until doubled in size.
- Shape the Brioche:
- Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal parts. Roll each part into a long rope and braid them together.
- Place the braid on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and cover it. Let it rise again for another 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Prepare for Baking:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Brush the brioche with a mix of egg yolk and milk.
- Sprinkle with pearl sugar or scatter chocolate chips on top.
- Bake:
- Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the brioche is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the brioche to cool slightly before slicing. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy this luxurious brioche, perfect for a decadent start to your day or as a special treat to share with loved ones!
