Introduction
Milk brioche is a delicious and indulgent bread that is perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of the day. It is a rich and buttery bread that has a soft and tender crumb. The addition of milk gives it a slightly sweet flavor and a beautiful golden crust. Whether you enjoy it plain, with a spread of butter, or with your favorite jam, milk brioche is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
To make a delectable milk brioche, you will need the following ingredients:
– 500g all-purpose flour
– 7g instant yeast
– 50g granulated sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 250ml whole milk
– 3 large eggs
– 150g unsalted butter, softened
Steps
Follow these steps to create a delightful milk brioche:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix well.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and eggs until well combined.
3. Gradually add the milk and egg mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon until a dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
5. Gradually add the softened butter, a few tablespoons at a time, kneading well after each addition until the butter is fully incorporated.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
7. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a loaf pan.
8. Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a loaf. Place the dough in the prepared loaf pan and cover with the kitchen towel. Let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it reaches the top of the pan.
9. Bake the brioche in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. Remove the brioche from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations
There are endless possibilities to customize your milk brioche:
– Add chocolate chips or raisins to the dough for a touch of sweetness.
– Sprinkle the top of the brioche with pearl sugar or sliced almonds before baking for added texture.
– Brush the brioche with a simple syrup after baking for a glossy finish.
Tips
Follow these tips for the perfect milk brioche:
– Make sure the butter is softened and at room temperature before incorporating it into the dough.
– Allow enough time for the dough to rise. It should double in size before shaping and baking.
– For a richer flavor, you can use half milk and half heavy cream in the recipe.
Conclusion
Milk brioche is a delightful bread that is perfect for any occasion. Its soft and buttery texture, combined with a hint of sweetness, makes it a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you enjoy it on its own or toasted with your favorite spread, milk brioche is sure to satisfy your cravings for a delicious and indulgent treat.
FAQs
Q: Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, you can substitute bread flour for all-purpose flour. However, keep in mind that bread flour has a higher protein content, which may result in a slightly denser brioche.
Q: Can I make milk brioche without a stand mixer?
A: Absolutely! While a stand mixer makes the kneading process easier, you can still achieve excellent results by kneading the dough by hand. Just be prepared for a bit of an arm workout!
Q: How should I store milk brioche?
A: To keep your milk brioche fresh, store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It will stay fresh at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
