There’s something truly special about homemade brioche bread. Its rich, buttery flavor and soft, pillowy texture make it perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or simply enjoying with a little jam. This braided version is not only delicious but also visually stunning—perfect for impressing family and friends!
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Why You’ll Love This Brioche Bread
✅ Rich and Buttery – Made with eggs and butter for that signature soft texture.
✅ Versatile – Enjoy it plain, toasted, or as the base for French toast!
✅ Fun to Make – The braiding adds a beautiful touch to your homemade bread.
✅ Make-Ahead Friendly – The dough can be prepared in advance and baked fresh when needed.
Ingredients for Tender Braided Brioche Bread
To make this soft and buttery brioche, you’ll need:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ cup warm milk (about 110°F/45°C)
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)
Tools You’ll Need
✔ Large mixing bowl
✔ Stand mixer with dough hook (optional but helpful)
✔ Baking sheet
✔ Parchment paper
✔ Pastry brush
How to Make Tender Braided Brioche Bread
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, mix warm milk and 1 tablespoon of sugar.
- Sprinkle the yeast over the milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl (or stand mixer), combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture, eggs, and softened butter. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead on medium speed for 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: First Rise
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise for 1.5 to 2 hours until doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape and Braid the Dough
- Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal parts.
- Roll each piece into a long rope, about 12 inches in length.
- Braid the ropes together, pinching the ends to seal.
- Place the braided loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 5: Second Rise
- Cover the loaf with a towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
Step 6: Bake the Brioche
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush the loaf with the egg wash mixture for a golden crust.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
- Let the brioche cool on a wire rack before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
🥐 Enjoy it with butter and jam for breakfast.
🍯 Use it for French toast or bread pudding.
🥪 Make gourmet sandwiches with this soft, buttery bread.
Tips for the Best Brioche Bread
✔ Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Helps the dough come together smoothly.
✔ Be Patient with Rising – Brioche dough takes time to develop its texture.
✔ Knead Well – Proper kneading gives the bread its signature soft crumb.
✔ Store Properly – Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Storage Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I make this without a stand mixer?
A: Yes! Knead by hand for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Q2: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
A: Yes! Skip the activation step and mix the yeast directly with the dry ingredients.
Q3: How do I make it sweeter?
A: Increase the sugar to ½ cup for a slightly sweeter bread.
A Buttery, Fluffy Treat for Any Occasion!
This Tender Braided Brioche Bread is as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re serving it fresh with butter or using it for the best French toast ever, it’s a must-try for any home baker. Give it a go, and let us know how it turns out!
Did you make this recipe? Share your photos and tag us on social media!
🕒 Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus 2.5 hours rising time)
🔥 Cooking Time: 30 minutes
🌍 Cuisine: French
Nutritional Information (per slice)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
Enjoy your homemade brioche, and happy baking!
Print
Tender Braided Brioche Bread
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Description
There’s something truly special about homemade brioche bread. Its rich, buttery flavor and soft, pillowy texture make it perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or simply enjoying with a little jam. This braided version is not only delicious but also visually stunning—perfect for impressing family and friends!
Subscribe to our newsletter for more delightful baking recipes straight to your inbox!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ cup warm milk (about 110°F/45°C)
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, mix warm milk and 1 tablespoon of sugar.
- Sprinkle the yeast over the milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl (or stand mixer), combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture, eggs, and softened butter. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead on medium speed for 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: First Rise
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise for 1.5 to 2 hours until doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape and Braid the Dough
- Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal parts.
- Roll each piece into a long rope, about 12 inches in length.
- Braid the ropes together, pinching the ends to seal.
- Place the braided loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 5: Second Rise
- Cover the loaf with a towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
Step 6: Bake the Brioche
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush the loaf with the egg wash mixture for a golden crust.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
- Let the brioche cool on a wire rack before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
✔ Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Helps the dough come together smoothly.
✔ Be Patient with Rising – Brioche dough takes time to develop its texture.
✔ Knead Well – Proper kneading gives the bread its signature soft crumb.
✔ Store Properly – Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 2.5 hours rising time)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: French
