Golden Brioche Loaf

Here’s a delightful recipe for a Golden Brioche Loaf, known for its rich, buttery flavor and soft, airy texture. This versatile bread is perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or simply enjoyed with a spread of butter or jam.

Golden Brioche Loaf Recipe

Ingredients

• For the Dough:
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon instant yeast
  • 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed (110°F or 43°C)
  • 4 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened and cut into cubes
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• For the Egg Wash:
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon milk

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Mix well.
   • In another bowl, whisk together the warm milk, eggs, and vanilla extract (if using).
   • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Knead the Dough:
   • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
   • Gradually incorporate the softened butter, a few pieces at a time, kneading until fully incorporated. The dough will be sticky but should pull away from the surface as you knead.
3. First Rise:
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.
4. Shape the Loaf:
   • Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
   • Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and divide it into three equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball, then roll each ball into a long rope (about 10-12 inches).
   • Braid the three ropes together, pinching the ends to seal, and place the braided loaf into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
5. Second Rise:
   • Cover the loaf with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
6. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Prepare the Egg Wash:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Brush the egg wash over the top of the loaf.
8. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. An internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) is ideal.
9. Cool:
   • Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips

• Storage: Store the brioche in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze slices for up to 3 months.
• Variations: You can add chocolate chips, dried fruit, or nuts to the dough for added flavor.
• Serving Suggestions: Brioche is delicious on its own or toasted with butter, jam, or used for French toast and sandwiches.

Enjoy your homemade Golden Brioche Loaf! It’s sure to be a hit at any breakfast or brunch table!