Flaky Honey Brioche Bread

Flaky Honey Brioche Bread is a delicious, soft, and slightly sweet bread that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even as a side for dinner. This homemade brioche is enriched with butter, honey, and a tender crumb, making it a real treat for bread lovers. The addition of a honey butter glaze gives it a delightful finish that enhances the natural sweetness of the bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This flaky honey brioche bread is a dream come true for anyone who loves rich, soft bread with a touch of sweetness. The dough, infused with honey and a buttery richness, creates a tender texture that’s just perfect for pulling apart. Whether you’re having it with your morning coffee or using it to make French toast, this brioche will elevate any meal. The honey butter glaze on top adds an extra layer of sweetness and shine, making it irresistible. With only a few simple ingredients, this brioche bread is surprisingly easy to make!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F, whole milk recommended)

• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)

• 1/4 cup honey

• 4 large eggs (room temperature, divided)

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened, cut into small cubes)

For the Honey Butter Glaze:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 egg yolk (for egg wash)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and honey. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes, until the mixture becomes frothy.

2. Prepare the Dough: Add the eggs (save one for the egg wash) and salt to the yeast mixture, mixing well. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, until the dough begins to come together. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.

3. Incorporate the Butter: Add the softened butter cubes to the dough and continue kneading until the butter is fully incorporated, and the dough is soft and smooth.

4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

5. Shape the Brioche: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions and shape each into a round ball. Arrange the balls in a greased 9×9-inch baking pan.

6. Second Rise: Cover the pan and let the dough rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until the balls have puffed up.

7. Bake the Brioche: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top of the dough with the remaining egg yolk for an egg wash. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

8. Prepare the Honey Butter Glaze: While the bread is baking, melt the butter and honey together in a small saucepan over low heat. Once the bread is finished baking, brush the honey butter glaze over the top of the hot bread.

9. Serve: Allow the brioche to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep time: 30 minutes

• Cooking time: 40 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Cinnamon Brioche: Add 1 tsp of cinnamon to the dough for a warm spiced flavor.

• Fruit Brioche: Incorporate dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or apricots into the dough for added sweetness and texture.

• Chocolate Brioche: Fold in some chocolate chips or chunks into the dough for a decadent twist.

• Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, and use non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk) along with an egg replacer.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover brioche in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze the cooled brioche bread for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing.

• Reheating: To reheat, simply wrap the brioche in foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or microwave it for 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, you can use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast. However, you’ll need to activate it in warm milk before adding it to the other ingredients.

2. Can I make this brioche dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the day before and refrigerate it after the first rise. When ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature before shaping and continuing with the recipe.

3. Can I use dairy-free alternatives in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the milk with almond or oat milk, and the butter with a dairy-free butter alternative to make this recipe dairy-free.

4. How can I make this recipe sweeter?

You can add more honey to the dough or glaze if you prefer a sweeter brioche. You could also sprinkle sugar on top before baking for a slightly crunchy, sugary topping.

5. Why is my dough not rising?

Ensure the yeast is still active by testing it in warm milk with sugar. If it doesn’t bubble or froth after 5-10 minutes, the yeast may be old or inactive.

6. Can I make this recipe without an egg wash?

Yes, if you prefer not to use an egg wash, you can skip it, though the bread will not have the same shiny finish.

7. Can I bake this bread in a different pan size?

Yes, you can adjust the pan size, but note that it may affect the baking time. A larger pan will result in a thinner loaf, while a smaller pan may require a longer baking time.

8. Can I add more butter to the dough?

Yes, you can add up to 3/4 cup of butter for an even richer texture, though it may alter the overall consistency of the dough slightly.

9. Is this brioche bread suitable for French toast?

Absolutely! This brioche bread makes for an amazing French toast due to its rich and soft texture. Just slice it up and dip it in your favorite egg batter.

10. How do I know when the brioche is done baking?

The brioche is done when it has a golden brown color on top, and it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also check with a thermometer—the internal temperature should reach around 190°F.

Conclusion

Flaky Honey Brioche Bread is a versatile, sweet, and buttery bread that is sure to impress your family and friends. With a soft, pillowy texture and the perfect hint of sweetness, this homemade brioche is perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a snack, breakfast, or dessert, the honey glaze on top is the perfect finishing touch. Try this recipe for a homemade treat that is as satisfying as it is delicious!