Milk Brioche Rolls: Soft, Buttery, and Perfectly Fluffy

Brioche rolls are the epitome of soft, buttery goodness, and when they’re made with milk, they become even more decadent. These Milk Brioche Rolls offer a melt-in-your-mouth texture with a slightly sweet flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as an accompaniment to a main dish, using them for sandwiches, or simply enjoying them with a bit of butter, these rolls are a treat you’ll want to make again and again.

With their light, airy crumb and rich flavor, these rolls are a great addition to any meal. The use of warm milk and yeast ensures a light, fluffy texture, while the butter adds a richness that’s hard to resist. Baking these rolls at home fills your kitchen with a comforting aroma, making them a perfect treat for family gatherings, dinner parties, or just as an everyday indulgence. If you’ve ever wanted to bake your own bread at home, these Milk Brioche Rolls are a great place to start.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Soft and Fluffy Texture

The combination of milk and butter gives these rolls a soft, pillowy texture that’s incredibly satisfying.

2. Perfectly Sweet Flavor

The touch of sugar in the dough gives the rolls just the right amount of sweetness, without being overwhelming.

3. Versatile Use

These rolls can be served as a side to any meal, used to make delicious sandwiches, or enjoyed on their own with a spread of butter.

4. Easy to Make

Despite their rich flavor and texture, these brioche rolls are surprisingly easy to make, with simple ingredients and straightforward instructions.

5. Great for Meal Prep

Once baked, these rolls can be easily stored and enjoyed throughout the week, making them perfect for meal planning and family dinners.

Ingredients

• Warm milk
• Active dry yeast
• Sugar
• All-purpose flour
• Salt
• Eggs
• Unsalted butter (softened)

Variations

• Cinnamon Brioche Rolls: Add ground cinnamon and a bit of nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Garlic Butter Brioche Rolls: Mix in garlic powder into the dough and top with melted garlic butter after baking for a savory twist.
• Herb Brioche Rolls: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a fragrant, savory version.
• Chocolate Brioche Rolls: Add chocolate chips or chunks into the dough for a sweet, dessert-like twist on the traditional brioche roll.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a bowl, combine the warm milk, active dry yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Add the flour, salt, eggs, and softened butter to the yeast mixture. Stir everything together until a dough starts to form.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Punch the dough down to release the air and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and place them on a baking sheet, leaving some space between each roll.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the rolls with a clean towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes, or until they puff up.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top.

Step 8: Serve

Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with butter or as part of a meal!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Warm Milk: Ensure the milk is warm but not hot, as too much heat can kill the yeast. The milk should be around 110°F (43°C).
• Kneading: Knead the dough long enough to develop the gluten, which gives the rolls their light, airy texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Rolls: Leave some space between the rolls when placing them on the baking sheet so they can rise properly.
• Check for Doneness: The rolls should be golden brown on top when done. You can also tap the bottom of a roll—if it sounds hollow, it’s done.
• Use Fresh Yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh and active to ensure the dough rises properly.

How to Serve

These Milk Brioche Rolls are incredibly versatile. Serve them warm alongside your favorite meal, whether it’s a hearty soup, salad, or a roasted meat dish. They also make excellent buns for sandwiches or sliders. For a sweet treat, serve them with a dollop of jam, honey, or Nutella.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once the rolls have cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh, you can also store them in a resealable plastic bag.

Freezing

These rolls freeze beautifully! After baking, allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature and warm them in the oven for 5-10 minutes.

Reheating

To reheat the rolls, wrap them in aluminum foil and place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes, or until warm.

FAQs

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast. You don’t need to activate it in warm milk—simply add it directly to the dry ingredients.

2. Can I make this dough in a stand mixer?

Yes, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook to knead the dough. Mix on low speed for 8-10 minutes.

3. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before, refrigerate it after the first rise, and shape and bake the rolls the next day.

4. Can I make this recipe without eggs?

Yes, you can omit the eggs and use an egg replacer, such as flaxseed meal or an extra tablespoon of butter, to maintain moisture.

5. What if my dough isn’t rising?

Ensure that your yeast is fresh and that the milk is warm enough (around 110°F/43°C). If the dough is still not rising, try placing it in a warmer spot, like near a stove or in an oven with the light on.

6. Can I add flavors to the rolls?

Absolutely! You can mix in herbs, garlic, or cheese to the dough for added flavor.

7. Can I use whole wheat flour?

You can use whole wheat flour, but the rolls may not be as soft and fluffy. A mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour can provide a healthier option with a lighter texture.

8. How do I prevent the rolls from drying out?

Make sure to store the rolls in an airtight container, and avoid overbaking them. Wrapping them in a damp towel while they cool can also help retain moisture.

9. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While margarine can be used in place of butter, it may alter the flavor and texture of the rolls slightly.

10. How do I know when the rolls are fully baked?

The rolls should be golden brown on top, and when you tap the bottom, it should sound hollow. You can also use a thermometer to check if the internal temperature reaches around 190°F (88°C).

Conclusion

These Milk Brioche Rolls are the perfect combination of soft, buttery goodness and a slightly sweet flavor. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to enjoy with a family meal, these rolls are sure to impress. With a straightforward recipe and the ability to make them ahead of time, you’ll find that these fluffy rolls are not only delicious but also convenient. Their versatility makes them the perfect accompaniment to any dish, and once you try them, you’ll never want store-bought rolls again!

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