Soft brioches are a timeless classic, perfect for breakfast or a snack. These small delights, with their enveloping aroma and very soft texture, are ideal to enjoy plain or filled with jam, custard, or chocolate. The recipe I propose today was passed down to me by my aunt, and after trying it, I haven’t stopped making it. These brioches, with a dough rich in butter and aromas, melt in your mouth and stay soft for a long time. Additionally, they can be frozen and reheated at the moment 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 1/2 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
Procedure
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 orange essence.
When the dough starts to form, add the softened butter little by little, allowing it to be completely absorbed.Form a ball with the dough and place 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 glaze.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
Check the cooking, as times may vary based on the size of the brioches and the oven.Once baked, let the soft brioches cool on a rack.
Enjoy them immediately or fill them with jam, cream, or ice cream for an irresistible snack!
Storage
The brioches stay soft for 2-3 days well closed in a food bag.
You can freeze them and reheat them for a few minutes in the oven to bring them back like freshly baked.
Variations
Panc brioche: If you want an even softer texture, replace 50 g of butter with 50 g of fresh cream.
Chocolate brioche: Add 30 g of cocoa to the dough for a chocolate version.
Different flavors: Try with grated lemon zest or a teaspoon of honey for a more intense taste.
FAQ – Soft Brioches
Can I use less yeast?
Yes! You can use 20 g 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 the air fryer?
Yes, bake them at 320°F for about 12 minutes, checking the glaze.
Making soft brioches at home is easier than you think! With a few ingredients and some patience for the rising, you’ll achieve perfect delights for breakfast or a snack. Try the recipe and let me know in the comments how they turned out!
