Xmas brioche bread recipe Make the ultimate festive loaf Delicious soft perfect for sharing Get this brioche bread recipe now
140 chars
Total Time:3 hours
Yield:1 Large Loaf
Ingredients
Bread flour
Active dry yeast or instant yeast or fresh yeast
Unsalted butter
Large eggs
Sugar
Whole milk
Salt
Candied Fruits (orange peel, citron, cherries)
Nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
Orange Zest
Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom)
Instructions
Proof the Yeast (if using active dry yeast): In a small bowl, combine warm water (105-115°F) with the yeast and a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy. If using instant yeast, skip this step.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, milk, and yeast mixture (if using) to the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until a shaggy dough forms.
Incorporate the Butter: With the mixer running on low, gradually add the softened butter, a tablespoon at a time, allowing each piece to be fully incorporated before adding the next. This process may take 5-10 minutes.
Knead the Dough: Increase the mixer speed to medium and knead the dough for 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth, elastic, and pulls away from the sides of the bowl. The dough will still be slightly sticky. If kneading by hand, knead on a lightly floured surface for 10-15 minutes.
First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Punch Down the Dough: Gently punch down the dough to release the air.
Add Candied Fruits and Nuts: Knead in the chopped candied fruits, nuts, orange zest, and spices until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Second Rise (optional): For a more developed flavor, cover the dough and let it rise again for 30-60 minutes.
Shape the Bread: Divide the dough into portions depending on your chosen shape (Christmas tree, wreath, etc.). Get creative! For Christmas Tree: Roll out the dough into a large rectangle. Spread a thin layer of Nutella or jam over the dough. Cut the dough into long triangles. Twist each triangle and arrange them on a baking sheet to form a Christmas tree shape. For Wreath: Divide the dough into three equal strands. Roll each strand into a rope. Braid the ropes together and form a circle. Pinch the ends together to seal the wreath.
Proof the Shaped Bread: Cover the shaped bread with a clean kitchen towel and let it proof for 30-45 minutes, or until slightly puffy.
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together an egg with a tablespoon of milk or water. Brush the egg wash evenly over the surface of the bread.
Bake: Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until golden brown. If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent it with foil.
Cool: Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Notes
Elevate your holiday baking with a show-stopping Brioche Christmas Bread. This recipe combines the rich, buttery flavor of classic brioche with festive additions like candied fruits, orange zest, and a hint of warming spices, creating a bread that’s both delicious and visually stunning.
