When it comes to special occasions, there’s no better way to impress your guests than with a show-stopping brioche bread. Rich, buttery, and indulgent, brioche is the perfect canvas for any flavor combination you can think of. Whether you’re looking to create a stunning centerpiece or a comforting breakfast spread, we’ve got 20 decadent brioche bread recipes that are sure to impress.
From classic French loaves to innovative twists like donuts and croissants, these mouthwatering treats are perfect for holidays, special birthdays, or simply because. With flavors ranging from sweet and fruity to savory and herbaceous, there’s something for everyone on this list. So go ahead, get creative, and let the aroma of freshly baked brioche fill your kitchen with joy.
Classic French Brioche Loaf
A rich and buttery brioche loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat any time of the day. This recipe yields a tender and flaky crumb with a golden-brown crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) warm milk (105°F/40°C)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons (45g) granulated sugar
– 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon whole milk
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, beaten egg, and yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Shape the dough into a loaf and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chocolate Chip Brioche Rolls
These buttery, sweet, and indulgent rolls are filled with dark chocolate chips, making them the perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
– 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, yeast mixture, and chocolate chips to the dry ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Punch down the dough, shape into rolls, and place on the prepared baking sheet. Brush with egg wash.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Brioche French Toast Casserole
Start your day with a decadent twist on traditional French toast by combining the richness of brioche with the convenience of a casserole. This indulgent breakfast or brunch option is perfect for special occasions or weekend treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of brioche, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Cinnamon or nutmeg for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Add brioche cubes to the egg mixture and stir until coated.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and dot with melted butter.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
6. Serve warm, sprinkled with cinnamon or nutmeg if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Savory Garlic and Herb Brioche
Elevate your bread game with this savory garlic and herb brioche recipe, perfect for accompanying soups, salads, or as a base for sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm milk
– 4 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add melted butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and salt to the mixture. Mix well.
3. Gradually add flour to the mixture and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Brioche Donuts with Vanilla Glaze
Elevate your donut game with these decadent brioche donuts, infused with the warmth of butter and eggs. Paired with a luscious vanilla glaze, these treats are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm milk
– 1/4 cup active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
– Vanilla glaze ingredients (see below)
Vanilla Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, salt, sugar, eggs, and melted butter to the mixture; mix until smooth.
4. Knead dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
5. Cut into desired shapes and fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil and let cool before glazing with vanilla glaze.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Maple Pecan Stuffed Brioche
Start your day with a decadent breakfast treat that combines the richness of maple syrup, the crunch of pecans, and the tender flakiness of brioche.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of brioche (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the brioche into 1-inch thick slices.
3. In a small bowl, mix together maple syrup and chopped pecans.
4. Spread a layer of melted butter on each brioche slice, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Spoon the maple-pecan mixture onto the butter, followed by a beaten egg.
6. Place the stuffed brioche slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Brioche Hamburger Buns
These rich, buttery buns are the perfect accompaniment to your favorite burger. With a tender crumb and golden brown crust, they’ll take your backyard BBQs or casual gatherings to the next level.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– Sesame seeds or poppy seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until just combined.
3. Add melted butter, beaten egg, and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into buns. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Blueberry Brioche Bread
This sweet and tangy bread combines the brightness of lemon zest with the natural sweetness of blueberries, all wrapped up in a tender brioche dough. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, this show-stopping loaf is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F – 115°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup blueberries, fresh or frozen
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, eggs, lemon zest, and yeast mixture.
3. Add flour and mix until just combined.
4. Fold in blueberries and salt to taste.
5. Knead dough for 10 minutes.
6. Place dough in a greased loaf pan and let rise for 1 hour.
7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Brioche Cinnamon Swirl Bread
This decadent bread is a perfect treat for breakfast or brunch. Soft and fluffy on the inside, with a sweet and buttery cinnamon swirl throughout.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough to a 1/4-inch thickness. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
5. Roll the dough into a tight log and cut into 12 equal pieces.
6. Place the pieces in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving some space between each piece.
7. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
8. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bacon and Cheese Stuffed Brioche
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this rich and buttery brioche, filled to the brim with crispy bacon and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.1 oz) package active dry yeast
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, eggs, flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm).
6. Sprinkle crumbled bacon and shredded cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
7. Fold the edges over the filling to form a tight seal.
8. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Brioche Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce
Transform leftover brioche into a decadent bread pudding, paired with a sweet and sticky caramel sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale brioche, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
2. Add the brioche cubes, heavy cream, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until the bread is evenly coated.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
5. While the pudding is baking, prepare the caramel sauce according to package instructions (or make your own).
6. Remove the pudding from the oven and drizzle with warm caramel sauce. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Rosemary and Sea Salt Brioche
Rosemary and Sea Salt Brioche: A flavorful and aromatic bread that combines the earthy taste of rosemary with the savory saltiness of sea salt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F – 115°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt to the mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add melted butter, chopped rosemary, and sea salt to the dough. Mix until fully incorporated.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Brioche Apple Tart with Cinnamon
Transforming apples into a sweet and tender filling, this Brioche Apple Tart is an autumnal delight. With a flaky brioche crust and a hint of cinnamon, it’s the perfect dessert for cozy gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 4-6 apples (Granny Smith or your favorite variety), peeled and sliced thin
- Sugar to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and cinnamon.
4. Spread the mixture evenly over the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around.
5. Arrange apple slices in a spiral pattern on top of the filling, slightly overlapping each other.
6. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the apples, pressing gently to seal.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and tender.
Pumpkin Spice Brioche Loaf
This moist and flavorful pumpkin spice brioche loaf is perfect for the fall season. With a hint of warm spices and a deep orange color, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup warm milk (105°F – 115°F)
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy.
2. Add flour, salt, sugar, melted butter, pumpkin puree, egg, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Mix until smooth.
3. Knead dough on floured surface for 10 minutes.
4. Place in greased loaf pan and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Brioche Croissant Hybrid (Cruffin)
This Cruffin recipe combines the best of both worlds – flaky, layered croissant dough infused with rich brioche flavors. The result is a tender, buttery pastry that’s perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brioche dough (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5-7 minutes, until frothy.
2. Add flour to the bowl and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Roll out brioche dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.
4. Place croissant dough on top of brioche, aligning edges.
5. Fold and roll out the combined dough to form a log.
6. Cut into 12 equal pieces and shape into Cruffins.
7. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each Cruffin.
8. Brush tops with egg wash and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Almond and Honey Brioche Twists
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with these tender, flaky, and sweet brioche twists infused with the warmth of almonds and honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
3. Add flour, salt, and melted butter. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth.
5. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Cut into long strips.
6. Twist each strip into a coil shape, tucking ends under. Place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with almonds and honey.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Brioche Ice Cream Sandwiches
Elevate your ice cream game with these decadent treats featuring soft, buttery brioche cookies and creamy vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup whole milk, chilled
– Vanilla ice cream
– Fresh berries or other toppings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
3. Whisk together flour and salt. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Gradually add milk, mixing until dough forms. Roll out to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares or circles). Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Allow cookies to cool completely. Sandwich with your favorite vanilla ice cream and optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Brioche
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this rich and buttery brioche, infused with the sweet and savory flavors of caramelized onions and melted Gruyère cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup caramelized onions (see note)
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until yeast is activated.
3. Add melted butter, sugar, eggs, flour, and salt. Mix until a smooth dough forms.
4. Fold in caramelized onions and Gruyère cheese.
5. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 2-3 minutes until smooth.
6. Place the dough on the prepared baking sheet, shape into a rectangle, and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Note: Caramelize onions by cooking 1 large onion in 2 tablespoons of oil over low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until dark golden brown and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Brioche Banana Bread with Walnuts
Moist banana bread infused with the buttery flavor of brioche, punctuated by crunchy walnuts and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 tbsp (30g) brioche mix or instant yeast
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, eggs, milk, and brioche mix or yeast. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add softened butter and whisk until well combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture and fold until just combined.
6. Fold in chopped walnuts.
7. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Cherry and Almond Brioche Braid
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this sweet and buttery brioche braid, bursting with cherries and almonds. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy morning treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 3 tablespoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup pitted cherries, chopped
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and melted butter.
3. Add the egg, confectioners’ sugar, cherries, and almonds to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to a 12×10-inch rectangle.
5. Fold the dough in thirds like a letter, then braid the dough into a 12-inch log.
6. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise for 1 hour.
7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these decadent brioche bread recipes perfect for special occasions. From classic French loaves to sweet treats like chocolate chip rolls and maple pecan stuffed brioche, there’s something for everyone. Try savory options like garlic and herb or bacon and cheese stuffed brioche, or go all out with indulgent recipes like brioche donuts with vanilla glaze or brioche ice cream sandwiches. With a range of flavors and textures, these brioche breads are sure to delight.