Fluffy Brioche Bread

Fluffy Brioche Bread

Ingredients:

– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
– 1/4 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened and cut into pieces
– 1 egg (for egg wash)
– 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. **Activate the Yeast:**
– In a small bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2. **Make the Dough:**
– In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
– Add the yeast mixture, warm milk, and eggs. Mix until the ingredients come together to form a dough.
– Knead the dough on medium speed (if using a stand mixer with a dough hook) for about 5 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic.
– Gradually add the softened butter, a few pieces at a time, and continue to knead until fully incorporated and the dough is shiny and smooth.

3. **First Rise:**
– Transfer the dough to 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.

4. **Shape the Dough:**
– Punch down the dough to release any air. On a lightly floured surface, shape the dough into a round loaf or divide it into smaller portions if you prefer individual rolls.
– Place the dough in a greased round cake pan or on a baking sheet if making individual rolls.

5. **Second Rise:**
– Cover the shaped dough again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.

6. **Prepare for Baking:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 tablespoon of milk to create an egg wash.
– Gently brush the top of the dough with the egg wash, which will give the bread a shiny, golden crust.

7. **Bake:**
– Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
– If the bread is browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil.

8. **Cool and Serve:**
– Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

This fluffy brioche bread is perfect for breakfast, served with butter and jam, or used to make indulgent sandwiches. Enjoy!