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subtle sweetness to the dough.
Instructions for Making Milk Brioche Rolls
1. Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, warm the whole milk to about 100°F (38°C)—it should feel warm but not hot to the touch. Stir in the sugar and sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy and bubbly, indicating that it’s activated.
2. Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture, eggs, and honey (if using). Mix everything together until the dough begins to form.
3. Knead the Dough
Using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment or your hands, knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes. The dough should be soft but slightly sticky. If you’re kneading by hand, be prepared for a bit of a workout, but kneading is essential to developing the dough’s texture.
4. Incorporate the Butter
Add the room-temperature butter a little bit at a time, kneading it into the dough as you go. This process can take about 5 minutes. The dough will become smoother and more elastic as the butter is fully incorporated. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s soft, shiny, and slightly sticky but not too wet.
5. Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, covering 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.
6. Shape the Rolls
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan or on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each roll.
7. Second Rise
Cover the shaped rolls with a towel or plastic wrap and let them rise for another 30–45 minutes, or until they have puffed up and are touching each other.
8. Bake the Rolls
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the rolls have risen, brush the tops with a beaten egg to give them a glossy, golden finish. Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through. You can test them by tapping the top of the roll—if it sounds hollow, they’re ready.
9. Cool and Serve
Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they can be stored in an airtight container for a few days. If you have leftovers, you can also reheat them in the oven or microwave for a warm, soft treat.
Why You Should Try Milk Brioche Rolls
Milk Brioche Rolls are an irresistible combination of sweetness, butteriness, and fluffiness. They’re not just an accompaniment to a meal—they’re an experience in themselves. When baked fresh, they fill the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma that will have everyone in the house eagerly awaiting the moment they’re ready to be served.
Whether you’re serving them with a cozy Sunday dinner, making them the base for sliders at your next BBQ, or enjoying them for breakfast with a smear of jam or honey, these rolls will add a touch of elegance and comfort to any occasion. They’re incredibly versatile, too—you can even make them ahead of time, freeze them, and bake them off as needed.
Tips for Perfect Milk Brioche Rolls
- Use room temperature butter: For the best texture, make sure your butter is soft, not melted. Room temperature butter is easier to incorporate into the dough, helping it achieve that smooth, rich texture.
- Don’t rush the rises: Brioche dough benefits from slow, steady rises. Be patient and let the dough rise fully for the best result. If you can, allow the dough to rise in a warm spot (but not too hot) to help it rise evenly.
- Brush with butter after baking: For extra flavor and a shiny, soft crust, brush the rolls with melted butter as soon as they come out of the oven.
Conclusion
Milk Brioche Rolls are the epitome of comfort food. Their rich, buttery texture and delicate sweetness make them the perfect treat for almost any meal, from breakfast to dinner. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a delicious homemade roll, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Soft, fluffy, and undeniably satisfying, Milk Brioche Rolls are the kind of baked good that will have you reaching for seconds—if not thirds!
