What makes a perfect weeknight dinner even better? Freshly baked homemade brioche buns, layered with melted cheese and served alongside your favorite family meals, are a game changer. Rich butter and eggs make these easy bread treats irresistible. Save this idea for your next quick family favorite recipe to try soon

bread buns stacked on top of each other with cheese in the background and text overlay reading brioche buns

Introduction

Imagine a world where the fluffiest, most tender bread buns are stacked high, inviting you to indulge in their soft, cheesy goodness. Welcome to the realm of brioche buns, where creativity meets simplicity and everyday ingredients transform into a culinary masterpiece. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the effortless process of crafting these heavenly treats, perfect for breakfast, lunch, or even as a snack. With minimal effort and a dash of imagination, you’ll be on your way to creating an impressive, mouth-watering dish that’s sure to delight both kids and adults alike.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: Our recipe relies on readily available ingredients, ensuring that you can easily replicate the dish without a trip to specialty stores. The combination of cheese, eggs, and butter creates a rich, balanced flavor profile that complements the soft buns perfectly.
• Ease of preparation: With a straightforward, step-by-step approach, you’ll find that preparing these brioche buns is a breeze, even for novice bakers. The simple mixing and rising process makes it easy to achieve professional-looking results without the hassle.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite the simplicity of the recipe, the end result is nothing short of impressive. The stacked buns, adorned with melted cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, are sure to become the centerpiece of any meal or gathering, earning you compliments and requests for the recipe.

Key Ingredients

To make these delectable brioche buns, you’ll need the following main ingredients: warm milk, active dry yeast, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsalted butter, eggs, and a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheese. For practical substitutions, you can use alternative types of milk, such as almond or soy milk, and swap the cheese blend with your preferred variety. Additionally, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, consider replacing the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by activating the yeast in warm milk, then combine the flour, sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and eggs, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
2. Step 2: Knead the dough for 10 minutes, until it becomes elastic and shiny, then place it in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free environment for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.
3. Step 3: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces, shape each into a ball, and flatten slightly into disks. Place the disks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each bun.
4. Step 4: Brush the tops with egg wash, sprinkle with grated cheese, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown. Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, and stack the buns on top of each other to create the signature brioche bun tower.

Handy Tips

• To ensure the buns rise evenly, make sure the yeast is fresh and the milk is at the correct temperature. Also, avoid overmixing the dough, as this can lead to dense, rather than light and fluffy, buns.

Heat Control

When baking the buns, it’s essential to maintain a consistent oven temperature of 375°F (190°C). Keep an eye on the buns after 12 minutes, as the baking time may vary depending on your oven. The buns are done when they’re golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Crunch Factor

To achieve the perfect crunch on the outside and softness on the inside, make sure to not overbake the buns. A light golden brown color and a gentle tap on the bottom should indicate doneness. If you prefer a crisper crust, you can try baking the buns for an additional 2-3 minutes, but be cautious not to overcook them.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To add an extra layer of flavor, try brushing the buns with a mixture of melted butter and garlic before baking. This will give the buns a rich, aromatic flavor that complements the cheese perfectly.

Storage Tips

• To store the brioche buns, allow them to cool completely on a wire rack, then place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the buns for up to 2 months and reheat them in the oven or microwave when needed.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re looking to share your brioche buns as a gift, consider packaging them in a decorative basket or tin, lined with parchment paper or a cloth napkin. You can also add a personal touch by including a handwritten note or a small jar of homemade jam or honey.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding a pinch of dried herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to the dough for a unique flavor twist.
• Creative toppings: Experiment with various cheese combinations, such as feta and parmesan, or add some caramelized onions or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
• Ingredient swaps: Replace the eggs with flax eggs or use a non-dairy milk alternative to create a vegan version of the brioche buns.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the buns turn out dense or heavy, it may be due to overmixing the dough or using old yeast. Try adjusting the mixing time and using fresh yeast to achieve a lighter texture.
• Ingredient replacements: If you’re missing an ingredient, don’t be afraid to get creative with substitutions. For example, you can use almond milk instead of regular milk or swap the cheddar cheese with a similar variety.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the buns while they’re baking, and check for doneness by tapping on the bottom. If they’re undercooked, they’ll sound hollow and feel soft; if they’re overcooked, they’ll be dark brown and dry.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the brioche buns for up to 2 months. Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Is it gluten-free? No, this recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can try replacing the flour with a gluten-free flour blend to create a gluten-free version.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to make more brioche buns. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as the buns may take longer to cook through.

Conclusion

With these simple, yet impressive, brioche buns, you’ll be able to wow your friends and family with your culinary skills. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. So go ahead, get creative, and experiment with different flavors and toppings to make the brioche buns your own. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with us!