Are you dreaming of soft, buttery brioche, but intimidated by the idea of making it from scratch? Fear not! This brioche bread maker recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Forget complicated kneading and precise timing; your trusty bread machine will do the heavy lifting, leaving you with a golden-brown, melt-in-your-mouth loaf perfect for French toast, sandwiches, or simply enjoying with butter and jam. This easy recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes achievable even on busy weeknights. It's a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups bread flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
Instructions:
Get started:
- Ensure your bread machine is clean and ready. Grease the bread pan lightly with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This will make removing the finished bread easier.
Add the ingredients:
- Add the liquids to the bread pan in the following order: warm milk, sugar, eggs, and softened butter.
- Add the dry ingredients: salt, flour, and yeast to the bread pan. Make sure the yeast doesn't directly contact the salt.
Bread Maker Settings:
- Select the “dough” setting on your bread machine. This will allow for proper kneading and rising. The exact time will vary based on your machine; consult your user manual.
After the Dough Cycle:
- Once the dough cycle is complete, carefully remove the dough from the bread pan. Gently shape it into a round or oval loaf.
Second Rise and Baking:
- Place the shaped dough in a lightly greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 45-60 minutes, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the brioche for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
Cooling and Enjoying:
- Let the brioche cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the inside to finish setting.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Brioche:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh yeast and eggs are crucial for a successful brioche. Stale ingredients can affect the rise and overall texture.
- Don’t overwork the dough: Once the bread machine has finished kneading, avoid excessive handling. Gentle shaping is key.
- Proper proofing is essential: Allow ample time for the dough to rise. A properly risen brioche will be light and airy.
- Check for doneness: Use a toothpick or cake tester to ensure the brioche is fully baked. It should come out clean.
Variations:
- Add-ins: Incorporate dried cranberries, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts into the dough for added flavor and texture.
- Glaze: Brush the baked brioche with a simple egg wash before baking for a glossy finish. A sprinkle of sugar adds extra sweetness.
- Sweet Brioche: Increase the sugar to 1/2 cup for a sweeter brioche.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
This will vary based on the size of your loaf and the specific ingredients used. However, a general approximation is:
- Calories: 250-300
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
This homemade brioche bread maker recipe provides a simple and delicious way to enjoy this classic pastry. It's perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike, offering a delightful homemade treat without the fuss. Enjoy!