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Easy Brioche Bread: Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

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Soft, buttery, and slightly sweet, this classic French brioche is perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or French toast!

Ingredients

Units Scale

✔️ Dough:

  • 5 cups bread flour
  • 1 tbsp instant yeast
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 cup whole milk (warm or room temperature)
  • 4 oz unsalted butter (room temperature, cut into small cubes)
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)

✔️ Egg Wash:

  • 1 large egg (beaten)
  • 1 tbsp whole milk

Instructions

1. Mix the Dough: In a stand mixer with a dough hook, combine flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. Gradually add eggs and milk, mixing on low speed for 2 minutes.

2. Incorporate Butter: Increase speed to medium-low and add butter, one cube at a time, letting each piece fully incorporate.

3. Knead & First Proof: Mix until the dough is smooth but slightly sticky (about 3-4 minutes). Transfer to a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let proof for 1.5 to 2 hours until doubled.

4. Shape the Dough: Turn dough onto a floured surface, press down, and divide into 3 equal pieces. Shape each into a ball, then roll into long ropes.

5. Braid & Second Proof: Pinch ropes at one end, braid them together, then place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover loosely and let rise for 1 to 1.5 hours until puffy.

6. Bake the Brioche: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush dough with egg wash and bake for 35-40 minutes, rotating halfway. If browning too quickly, tent with foil.

7. Cool & Enjoy: Let the brioche cool completely before slicing.

Notes

Pro Tips & Variations

🔹 For a richer flavor: Chill the dough overnight before baking.
🔹 For a sweeter brioche: Increase sugar to ¾ cup.
🔹 For a fun twist: Add chocolate chips, dried fruit, or cinnamon.

Storage & Reheating

  • At Room Temp: Wrap in plastic wrap or foil for up to 2 days.
  • Freezing: Store slices in an airtight bag for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Warm slices in a toaster or oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes.