Brioche Bread Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
  • 1 cup milk, lukewarm
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• For the Egg Wash:
  • 1 large egg, beaten

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast:
   • In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
2. Mix the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
   • Add the activated yeast mixture, egg, and softened butter to the flour mixture.
   • Using a dough hook attachment on a stand mixer or your hands, mix until a smooth dough forms.
   • If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
3. First Rise:
   • Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.
4. Shape the Loaves:
   • Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into two equal pieces. Shape each piece into a loaf and place them in greased loaf pans.
5. Second Rise:
   • Cover the loaves with plastic wrap and let them rise again until they reach the top of the pans, about 1 hour.
6. Egg Wash:
   • Brush the tops of the loaves with the beaten egg.
7. Baking:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Bake the loaves for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and they sound hollow when tapped.
8. Cooling:
   • Let the loaves cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your homemade Brioche bread!