Kitchies! There’s something truly magical about homemade brioche bread. The moment you pull it from the oven, the golden crust glows with a buttery sheen, and the aroma is enough to make anyone stop in their tracks. This isn’t just any bread—it’s a French classic that’s rich, tender, and slightly sweet, making it perfect for sandwiches, French toast, or just enjoying with butter and jam.
Brioche might sound fancy, but trust me—it’s easier than you think! This foolproof recipe gives you that pillowy-soft texture and buttery richness every time. Whether you want to make a beautiful braided loaf, fluffy dinner rolls, or classic brioche buns, this dough is versatile and incredibly delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Buttery & Rich Flavor – The perfect balance of sweetness and richness.
✔️ Soft & Fluffy Texture – Light, airy, and melt-in-your-mouth good!
✔️ Great for Any Occasion – Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner rolls.
✔️ Easy to Make – A step-by-step guide for foolproof brioche.
✔️ Versatile Dough – Use it for loaves, rolls, or buns!
A Family Favorite – The Bread That Wins Hearts
Growing up, I always thought of brioche as bakery magic—something only the pros could make. That changed when I made my first homemade loaf, and let me tell you: it was life-changing. The moment my husband took a bite, he looked at me and said, “This is better than any bakery brioche I’ve had!” My little ones? They couldn’t stop sneaking slices, slathered with butter and honey.
Now, it’s a staple in our home. We use it for grilled cheese, French toast, breakfast sandwiches, or just tearing off chunks to enjoy with a warm drink. Once you make homemade brioche, you’ll never go back to store-bought!
Why This Brioche Bread is a Must-Try
What Makes It Special?
✅ The Buttery, Fluffy Perfection – Rich in butter and eggs for a soft, tender crumb.
✅ A Touch of Sweetness – Just the right amount for a lightly sweet flavor.
✅ Beautifully Golden Crust – That iconic glossy finish from an egg wash!
✅ Perfect for French Toast – Absorbs custard beautifully without getting soggy.
Cuisine: French / Bakery-Style Bread
Tips for the Best Homemade Brioche Bread
✔️ Use Warm Milk – Not too hot, or it’ll kill the yeast! Around 110°F is perfect.
✔️ Don’t Rush the Kneading – Brioche dough needs time to develop elasticity. 10-12 minutes is ideal.
✔️ Room Temperature Butter – Softened butter incorporates better into the dough.
✔️ Double Rise is Key – A long, slow rise makes the bread fluffy and flavorful.
✔️ Make It Ahead – Let the dough rise overnight in the fridge for even better flavor.
Substitutions & Variations for Brioche Bread
Make It Dairy-Free:
✔️ Swap butter for vegan butter and milk for almond or oat milk.
Sweeten It Up:
✔️ Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon + ½ cup chocolate chips for a dessert-style brioche.
✔️ Swirl in fruit preserves for a delicious fruity version!
Savory Brioche:
✔️ Add shredded cheese and herbs for a more savory bread.
✔️ Mix in roasted garlic and Parmesan for a garlic brioche twist.
Make It Healthier: Whole Wheat Version
For a healthier brioche:
✔️ Swap half the flour for whole wheat flour.
✔️ Use honey instead of sugar for natural sweetness.
✔️ Reduce the butter slightly to cut down on fat.
The Perfect Bread for Every Occasion
And there you have it! This Homemade Brioche Bread is buttery, soft, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven, toasted with jam, or turned into the best French toast ever, you’re in for a treat.
Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your brioche creations! Tag us with your bakes, and check out our other homemade bread recipes!
Categories:
🍞 Homemade Bread | 🇫🇷 French Bakery | 🥪 Sandwich Breads | 🥖 Breakfast & Brunch | 🍽️ Baking
Tags:
#BriocheBread #HomemadeBread #FrenchBaking #BakingFromScratch #EasyBreadRecipe #SoftAndFluffy
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Homemade Brioche Bread
Description
There’s something truly magical about homemade brioche bread.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- ½ cup warm milk (110°F, warm but not hot)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but enhances flavor)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (cut into cubes)
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, whisk together warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. (This means your yeast is active!)
Step 2: Mix the Dough
- In a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, add flour and salt.
- Pour in the activated yeast mixture, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed for 3-4 minutes, until the dough starts coming together.
Step 3: Add Butter for Richness
- Gradually add the softened butter, a few cubes at a time, while mixing on medium speed.
- Continue kneading for 10-12 minutes until the dough is smooth, stretchy, and slightly sticky.
Step 4: First Rise – Let it Puff Up!
- Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1.5-2 hours (or until doubled in size).
Step 5: Shape the Loaf
- Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into three equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a log and braid them together for a traditional braided brioche. Alternatively, shape it into a loaf or small rolls.
- Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan.
Step 6: Second Rise – Almost There!
- Cover with a clean towel and let it rise for 45-60 minutes, until puffy.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Whisk together 1 egg + 1 tbsp milk and brush it over the dough for that glossy golden crust.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is deep golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Let cool before slicing (if you can resist!).
