ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions for Milk Brioche Rolls
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the milk and stir gently. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast becomes frothy and bubbly. This means the yeast is active and ready to help your dough rise.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the frothy milk-yeast mixture, eggs, and honey (if using). Mix everything together using a wooden spoon or a dough hook attached to a stand mixer until it forms a rough dough.
Step 3: Add Butter and Knead
Add the softened butter, a little at a time, to the dough. Once incorporated, continue kneading the dough for 8-10 minutes by hand or 5-6 minutes using a stand mixer with a dough hook, until it becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly sticky. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle in small amounts of flour, but be careful not to add too much.
Step 4: First Rise
Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. If you’re short on time, you can place the dough in an oven with just the light on, creating a warm environment.
Step 5: Shape the Rolls
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball by tucking the edges underneath, creating a round shape. Place the dough balls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, arranging them close together so that they touch each other.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the pan with a kitchen towel and let the dough balls rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until they puff up and fill the pan.
Step 7: Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Before baking, brush the tops of the rolls with a tablespoon of milk to give them a glossy finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped. If you’re unsure, you can also check the internal temperature—when it reaches about 190°F (88°C), the rolls are ready.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely or serve them warm right from the pan. They are perfect on their own, or you can top them with butter, jam, or honey for an extra special touch.
Why You’ll Love Milk Brioche Rolls
- Incredibly Soft and Buttery: These rolls are known for their melt-in-your-mouth texture. The addition of butter, eggs, and milk creates a rich, tender dough that’s soft and fluffy, with just the right amount of sweetness.
- Versatile: Milk Brioche Rolls are perfect for any occasion. Serve them as a side with dinner, use them for sandwiches or sliders, or enjoy them for breakfast with a dollop of jam or honey.
- Beautifully Golden: The milk glaze brushed on top before baking gives the rolls a gorgeous golden-brown finish, making them both a visual and culinary treat.
- Perfect for Special Occasions: These rolls elevate any meal, from holiday dinners to casual get-togethers. Their slightly sweet flavor makes them a crowd-pleasing addition to any table.
- Made from Scratch: Unlike store-bought rolls, these Milk Brioche Rolls are made with simple ingredients you can feel good about. Baking them yourself means you can control the quality of every ingredient and enjoy the pride of creating something homemade.
Customizations for Milk Brioche Rolls
While this recipe is already delicious as is, here are some fun ways to make it your own:
- Herbed Brioche Rolls: Add fresh or dried herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or basil to the dough for a savory twist. These would pair beautifully with roasted meats or a hearty soup.
- Cinnamon Sugar Brioche Rolls: Before shaping the rolls, sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar on the dough. This will infuse the rolls with a warm, spiced sweetness. Perfect for a brunch or a sweet treat.
- Cheese Stuffed Rolls: For a cheesy twist, stuff each dough ball with a small piece of cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) before shaping the rolls. These will bake up with a gooey, cheesy center.
- Add Orange or Lemon Zest: If you prefer a fresh, citrusy flavor, add a teaspoon of grated orange or lemon zest to the dough. This will give your rolls a bright, aromatic flavor.
- Vegan Version: To make the rolls vegan, substitute the butter with plant-based butter or coconut oil, use plant-based milk, and replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water for each egg).
Serving Suggestions for Milk Brioche Rolls
These Milk Brioche Rolls are perfect for any meal or snack:
- Breakfast: Serve them warm with butter and jam for a comforting start to your day.
- Dinner: Pair them with your favorite savory dishes such as roasted meats, soups, or salads.
- Sandwiches: Use these rolls to make delicious sandwiches or sliders. They work well with both savory and sweet fillings.
- Dessert: Serve with whipped cream or ice cream for a sweet treat.
Conclusion
Milk Brioche Rolls are the ultimate in soft, buttery, and slightly sweet bread. These rolls are versatile enough for any occasion, from a simple family meal to a special holiday feast. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and golden, shiny finish, they’re bound to become a beloved staple in your baking routine. Try making them today, and enjoy the heavenly taste of homemade, freshly baked bread!
ADVERTISEMENT
