Tender Braided Brioche Bread

Imagine pulling apart a warm, soft, and buttery loaf of freshly baked brioche. This Tender Braided Brioche Bread is everything you want in a loaf—fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth texture with just the right amount of sweetness. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent snack, this brioche is the epitome of comfort. The braided shape adds a beautiful touch, making it not only delicious but also a showstopper at the table. Ready to get baking? Let’s dive in!

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Why You’ll Love This Brioche Bread
✔ Soft & Buttery – The rich butter and eggs create an incredibly soft, tender crumb that’s simply irresistible. ✔ Beautifully Braided – The elegant braid adds a sophisticated touch to your baking.
✔ Perfect for Any Meal – Whether served with jam, made into French toast, or simply enjoyed on its own, this brioche is versatile and delicious.
✔ Homemade Heaven – There’s nothing quite like fresh, homemade brioche straight from the oven.

Ingredients for Tender Braided Brioche Bread

• 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for kneading
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup whole milk, warm
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

Tools You’ll Need
✔ Stand mixer (optional, but helpful)
✔ Mixing bowl
✔ Loaf pan (optional)
✔ Pastry brush (for egg wash)
✔ Baking sheet or parchment paper

How to Make Tender Braided Brioche Bread Step 1: Activate the Yeast

• In a small bowl, combine warm milk and honey. Stir to dissolve.
• Sprinkle the yeast over the milk mixture and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until the mixture is frothy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

• In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, and softened butter.
• Mix using a dough hook attachment for about 5 minutes, until the dough is smooth and slightly sticky. If kneading by hand, turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 10 minutes.
• Once the dough is smooth and elastic, form it into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape the Dough

• After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air.
• Divide the dough into three equal pieces and roll them into long ropes, about 12 inches long each.
• Braid the dough by placing the three ropes side by side, then weaving them over and under, pinching the ends together once the braid is complete.
• Transfer the braided dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet or a greased loaf pan.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

• Cover the braided dough with a clean towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, until it puffs up and nearly doubles in size.

Step 5: Egg Wash & Bake

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a small bowl, whisk the egg for the egg wash. Brush the top of the braided dough with the egg wash for a shiny, golden finish.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 6: Cool & Serve

• Let the bread cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
• Serve warm, or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Serving Suggestions
Serve with a drizzle of honey or your favorite jam for a sweet treat.
Use the brioche for French toast by dipping slices into egg custard and frying until golden.
Enjoy with soft cheeses, meats, or even as a sandwich base for a more savory twist.

Tips for the Best Brioche
✔ Room Temperature Ingredients – Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for the best texture and rise.
✔ Don’t Rush the Rising – Let the dough rise fully to get that soft, airy texture. It’s worth the wait!
✔ Braid Loosely – When braiding, don’t pull the ropes too tight to allow room for the dough to rise and expand.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

• Store: Keep your brioche in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm slices in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or toast for a crispy finish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, bread flour will make the bread slightly chewier, but it will still work great.

Q2: Can I make this brioche ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can make the dough the night before, let it rise in the fridge overnight, and braid it the next day.

Q3: Can I add chocolate chips or fruit to the dough?
A: Yes! Feel free to fold in chocolate chips, dried fruit, or nuts before braiding to add a twist to the classic brioche.

A Loaf That’s a Work of Art! This Tender Braided Brioche Bread is everything you want in a bread: soft, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. The braided shape makes it as beautiful as it is tasty—perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a lazy morning with coffee or making French toast, this brioche will be the star of the show!

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Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: French

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 180
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 1g

Enjoy every tender, buttery bite of this heavenly brioche bread!

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