Classic Brioche from Tous les Jours features buttery, golden-brown dough with a soft, fluffy interior and a slightly sweet flavor, making it a perfect light, tender treat for breakfast or any time.
Equipments
- Mixing bowl
- Stand mixer (with dough hook attachment)
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Bench scraper
- Rolling pin
- Loaf pan or brioche molds
- Pastry brush
- Cooling rack
- Kitchen scale
- Plastic wrap or kitchen towel (for covering dough)
- Oven
Ingredients
- 3 1/4 cups (400g) bread flour
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, lukewarm
- 5 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
Using bread flour with a higher protein content ensures the dough develops proper gluten structure for a tender yet sturdy brioche. Lukewarm whole milk activates the yeast effectively without killing it, crucial for optimal dough rise. Softened unsalted butter added gradually creates the dough's rich, buttery texture and flavor critical to classic brioche. Room temperature eggs incorporate smoothly, helping to achieve the dough's light and fluffy interior. Your success in replicating the Classic Brioche from Tous les Jours relies on precise measurement and quality ingredients for that golden-brown crust and subtly sweet taste.
Instructions
- **Instructions:**
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together bread flour, sugar, and salt.
- In a separate small bowl, dissolve yeast in lukewarm milk; let it sit until foamy (about 5 minutes).
- Add the yeast mixture and eggs to the dry ingredients.
- Using a stand mixer with dough hook, mix on low speed until a shaggy dough forms.
- Continue mixing on medium speed for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth.
- Gradually add softened butter, a few pieces at a time, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Mix on medium-high speed for 10–15 minutes, until dough is glossy, elastic, and pulls away from the sides.
- Transfer dough to a lightly greased bowl; cover with plastic wrap or kitchen towel.
- Let dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size (1–2 hours).
- Punch down the dough to deflate; cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
- Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface; use a bench scraper to divide and shape as desired for loaf pan or molds.
- Place shaped dough into greased loaf pan or brioche molds.
- Cover with plastic wrap or kitchen towel; let rise until nearly doubled (about 1–2 hours).
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Whisk the remaining egg and brush gently over risen dough with a pastry brush.
- Bake for 25–35 minutes, or until brioche is deep golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Remove from oven and cool in pan for 10 minutes.
- Remove brioche from pan or molds and cool completely on a cooling rack before serving.
Substitution
Classic Brioche from Tous les Jours copycat menu replicates the rich, buttery texture and slightly sweet flavor characteristic of the original bakery. If unsalted butter is unavailable, use salted butter but reduce added salt to maintain balance in taste. When active dry yeast is not on hand, instant yeast can be substituted without proofing, though dough rise times might slightly vary. Your baking environment affects dough fermentation, so keep it in a warm, draft-free spot for optimal rising. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements to achieve consistent dough texture and loaf volume each time.
Tips
Ensure your milk is lukewarm, around 100degF (38degC), to properly activate the yeast without killing it. Incorporate softened butter gradually to avoid breaking the dough's structure, ensuring a smooth and elastic texture. Refrigeration after the first rise develops flavor and makes the dough easier to handle. Applying a gentle egg wash before baking gives your brioche a shiny, golden crust that enhances its visual appeal.
Nutritions
Classic Brioche from Tous les Jours is rich in calories due to its high butter and egg content, providing a good source of protein and healthy fats. The bread flour offers carbohydrates necessary for energy, while whole milk contributes calcium and vitamin D important for bone health. Although it contains sugar, the amount is moderate, making it a balanced option for a treat. You can enjoy this light, tender brioche knowing it delivers both taste and nutritional value.
Storage
Store your Classic Brioche in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain its soft, fluffy texture for up to 2 days at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze the brioche by wrapping it in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, allowing it to keep fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen brioche at room temperature and refresh by warming it briefly in the oven before serving.
Variation or Alternatives
For a richer flavor, consider substituting whole milk with half-and-half or heavy cream in your brioche dough. You can add finely grated orange zest or vanilla bean paste to enhance the subtle sweetness and aroma of your bread. To achieve a taller, more open crumb structure, try extending the final proofing time by an extra 30 minutes in a slightly warmer environment. Use chilled butter cut into small cubes during mixing to help maintain dough temperature and improve layering for a delicate, flaky texture.
Allergies
Classic Brioche contains common allergens such as eggs, milk, and wheat, which may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. If you have an allergy to dairy or eggs, consuming this bread could cause symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe reactions. Always check ingredient lists carefully and consider alternatives if you have known food allergies.
Why this recipe?
Classic Brioche from Tous les Jours is favored for its rich, buttery texture and slightly sweet flavor that melts in your mouth. The delicate crumb and golden crust reflect expert baking techniques that balance softness with a subtle crispness. You will appreciate the versatility of this brioche, perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or desserts, making it a worthwhile challenge to replicate at home. Enjoying a homemade version allows you to customize ingredients and capture the authentic taste that has delighted many customers.