07 Jun 2025
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 225 min
Ingredients:
1 tsp yeast
1/3 cup milk (1% fat)
2 tbsp sugar
2.50 cups all-purpose white wheat flour
1 tsp salt
1 egg
1/2 cup butter
1 tbsp sesame seeds
Brioche buns are a delicious and versatile bread option that can elevate any meal, whether you're using them for burgers, sandwiches, or enjoying them on their own. This recipe will guide you through the steps to achieve soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet buns that are sure to impress your family and friends.
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
- Warm the milk to lukewarm (about 100-110°F or 38-43°C). Do not overheat.
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Mix well.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate small bowl, beat the egg lightly.
4. Form the Dough:
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in the frothy yeast mixture and the beaten egg.
- Mix the ingredients until they start to come together. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment or mix by hand.
5. Incorporate Butter:
- Cut the butter into small cubes. Gradually add the cubed butter into the dough mixture while continuing to knead.
- Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. The dough will be slightly sticky.
6. First Rise:
- Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
7. Shape the Buns:
- Punch down the doubled dough to release the gas.
- Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a smooth ball. Place the dough balls evenly spaced on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Second Rise:
- Cover the shaped buns with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up.
9. Preheat the Oven:
- While the buns are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
10. Prepare for Baking:
- If desired, brush the tops of the risen buns lightly with a bit of milk or a beaten egg to achieve a glossy finish.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds evenly over the tops of the buns.
11. Bake the Buns:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the brioche buns are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
12. Cool and Serve:
- Transfer the baked buns to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy your homemade brioche buns as a perfect accompaniment to burgers, sandwiches, or as a tasty snack on their own!
Tips:
- Ensure your milk is lukewarm, around 110°F (43°C), to activate the yeast properly without killing it.
- Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This may take around 10 minutes by hand or about 5 minutes using a stand mixer with a dough hook.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area. Ideal temperatures are between 75°F and 85°F (24°C - 29°C).
- For a shiny and golden crust, brush the buns with an egg wash made from a beaten egg mixed with a tablespoon of water before baking.
- Allow the buns to cool completely on a wire rack to prevent sogginess on the bottom.
- If you prefer a more pronounced buttery flavor, opt for European-style butter with a higher fat content.
Once you've mastered this brioche bun recipe, you'll have a go-to bread option that is perfect for a variety of dishes. The rich, buttery flavor and tender crumb make these buns a favorite for any occasion. Happy baking, and enjoy the delicious results of your homemade brioche buns!