Milk brioche rolls are the epitome of soft, buttery perfection. These rolls, with their rich flavor and tender crumb, are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful snack. Follow this detailed guide to bake your own batch of these deliciously fluffy rolls.
Ingredients
- 200ml (⅞ cup) warm milk
- 7g (1 ½ tsp) dry yeast
- 20g (4 ¾ tsp) sugar
- 6g (1 tsp) salt
- 20g (1 tbsp) honey
- 400g (3 cups) all-purpose flour
- 30g (2 tbsp) soft butter
- 50g (½ cup) chocolate chips (optional)
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Activating the Yeast
Begin by warming the milk until it is lukewarm (about 110°F or 43°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the warm milk, dry yeast, honey, and sugar. Allow this mixture to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to be used.
Step 2: Mixing the Dough
Incorporate the all-purpose flour and salt into the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough begins to form. At this stage, the dough may be slightly sticky, but it will become smoother as you knead it.
Step 3: Adding the Butter
Add the soft butter to the dough. Knead the dough until the butter is fully integrated and the dough becomes smooth and elastic, which should take about 5-10 minutes. Once the butter is well incorporated, set the dough aside in a warm place for 30 minutes to rest and rise slightly.
Step 4: Optional – Adding Chocolate Chips
If you want to make chocolate chip brioche rolls, knead the chocolate chips into the dough after the initial rise. Make sure the chocolate chips are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 5: Folding the Dough
Fold the dough as shown in the accompanying video. This involves folding it over itself two times with 15-minute intervals in between. This process helps to build structure in the dough. After the second fold, set the dough aside for 1 hour to rise until it doubles in size.
Step 6: Shaping the Rolls
After the dough has risen, divide it into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece out into a flat rectangle and then roll it into a cigar shape. Arrange the rolled pieces in a prepared baking pan, placing them snugly together.
Step 7: Final Rise
Allow the shaped dough to rise for another hour or until it has doubled in size. This final rise ensures that your rolls will be light and fluffy.
Step 8: Baking
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Just before baking, brush the tops of the rolls with an egg wash to give them a beautiful, glossy finish. Bake the rolls for 20-22 minutes or until they are golden brown.
Tips for Perfect Milk Brioche Rolls
- Temperature of Milk: Ensure the milk is warm, not hot. The ideal temperature is around 110°F (43°C) to activate the yeast without killing it.
- Soft Butter: Make sure the butter is soft but not melted to easily incorporate it into the dough.
- Even Distribution: If adding chocolate chips, knead them thoroughly into the dough to avoid clumping.
- Resting Time: Don’t rush the resting and rising times. This helps develop the dough’s texture and flavor.
- Egg Wash: For a vegan alternative, use a mixture of plant-based milk and maple syrup for brushing.
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast. You don’t need to dissolve it in warm milk first. Just add it directly to the dry ingredients.
What if I don’t have honey?
You can substitute honey with an equal amount of maple syrup or agave nectar.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Whole wheat flour can be used, but it will result in a denser roll. You might want to use a mix of half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.
How should I store the rolls?
Store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the rolls and thaw them at room temperature when ready to eat.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans can provide a nice crunch and additional flavor. Just be sure to chop them finely and incorporate them with the chocolate chips if you’re using them.
Conclusion
These milk brioche rolls are a delectable treat that’s sure to impress. With their rich, buttery flavor and soft, fluffy texture, they are perfect for any occasion. Follow these steps and tips to ensure your rolls turn out perfectly every time. Enjoy your baking!