Milk Brioche

Recipe Details

• Author: deesviral
• Cuisine: French / Sweet Bread
• Category: Breakfast / Baking
• Keywords: Brioche Bread, Fluffy Milk Bread, Soft Bread Recipe, deesviral Brioche
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Rise Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Bake Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 1 large loaf or 12 buns

Ingredients

• 3 1/2 cups (450g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) sugar
• 1 packet (7g) instant dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 3/4 cup (180ml) warm milk
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast (keep salt and yeast on opposite sides).
2. Add eggs, warm milk, and vanilla (if using). Mix until a sticky dough forms. Knead by hand or mixer for 8–10 minutes.
3. Add softened butter gradually and continue kneading until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Form the dough into a ball, place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1.5 to 2 hours or until doubled.
5. Punch down the dough and divide into equal pieces (loaf or rolls). Shape and place into a greased pan or tray.
6. Cover and let rise again for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until very puffy.
7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the tops with egg wash.
8. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
9. Let cool slightly before slicing or serving warm with butter.

Tips for Fluffy Brioche

• Use warm milk: Not hot! 100–110°F (38–43°C) is ideal to activate the yeast.
• Soft butter only: Melted butter won’t build structure. Use room temp, softened butter.
• Long knead time: Proper kneading helps develop gluten for structure and softness.
• Double rise: Both rises are essential for cloud-like texture.

Storage & Freezing

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight bag for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw and warm before serving.
• Best Use: Perfect for toast, jam, French toast, or bread pudding.

Why This Recipe Works

This Milk Brioche recipe blends classic French technique with simple ingredients to create an incredibly fluffy and soft bread. Eggs and butter enrich the dough, while the warm milk and proper rise deliver that signature lightness. It’s a trusted deesviral go-to for bakers at all levels.

Expert Tips

• Use bread flour for slightly more chew if desired.
• Add a touch of lemon or orange zest for flavor complexity.
• Top with pearl sugar or slivered almonds before baking for bakery-style flair.
• Serve warm with honey butter or clotted cream for a treat!