Soft brioches are a timeless classic, perfect for breakfast or a snack. These small delights, with their enveloping aroma and super soft texture, are ideal to enjoy plain or filled with jam, custard, or chocolate. The recipe I propose today was handed down to me by my aunt, and after trying it, I never stopped making it. With a dough rich in butter and aromas, these brioches melt in your mouth and stay soft for a long time. Moreover, they can be frozen and reheated on the spot to always have a delicious breakfast ready to enjoy!
- Difficulty: Medium
- Cost: Very economical
- Rest time: 5 Hours
- Preparation time: 30 Minutes
- Portions: 12 Pieces
- Cooking methods: Electric oven
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: All seasons
Ingredients
- 8 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2/3 cup butter
- 1.4 oz fresh yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 egg
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup water
- 1 packet vanillin
- orange essence
Tools
- 1 Mixer
- 1 Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- 1 Brush
Method
If you decide to prepare the dough with a mixer, divide the ingredients and prepare the dough in two batches. Once ready, combine the two doughs in the same bowl and let them rise together.
Warm the water and milk, dissolve the yeast and mix well.
Add the sugar and the egg beaten with a fork.
Start mixing by gradually adding the flour.
Add the salt and the orange essence.
When the dough begins to form, add the softened butter little by little, allowing it to be fully absorbed.Form a ball with the dough and put it in a covered bowl.
Let it rise for about 2 hours, until it has doubled in volume.Once risen, divide the dough into balls of 3 oz each.
Place them on a baking tray with parchment paper, spacing them to prevent sticking during rising.Cover the brioches with a cloth and let them rise for another 3 hours.
Brush the brioches with egg white, yolk, or milk for a perfect golden finish.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
Check the baking, as times may vary depending on the size of the brioches and the oven.Once baked, let the soft brioches cool on a wire rack.
Enjoy them immediately or fill with jam, cream, or ice cream for an irresistible snack!
Storage
The brioches remain soft for 2-3 days if well closed in a food bag.
You can freeze them and heat them for a few minutes in the oven to make them as fresh as newly baked.
Variations
Panc brioche: If you want an even softer texture, replace 1/5 cup of butter with 1/5 cup of fresh cream.
Cocoa brioche: Add 1/4 cup of cocoa to the dough for a chocolate version.
Different aromas: Try with grated lemon zest or a teaspoon of honey for a more intense flavor.
FAQ – Soft brioches
Can I use less yeast?
Yes! You can use 0.7 oz of fresh yeast and extend the rising times for an even lighter and more digestible result.
How do I know if the dough is ready?
The dough should be elastic and soft, not sticky. If you stretch it slightly and it doesn’t break immediately, it’s ready.
Can I bake them in an air fryer?
Yes, bake them at 320°F for about 12 minutes, checking for doneness.
Making soft brioches at home is easier than you think! With few ingredients and a little patience for rising, you’ll obtain perfect delights for breakfast or a snack. Try the recipe and let me know in the comments how they turned out!
