There’s something irresistible about the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen, and these Golden Sesame Seed Brioche Buns capture the essence of that magic. Soft, fluffy, and buttery, brioche buns are the epitome of decadence and comfort. They are enriched with eggs and butter, making them richer and more tender than your average bread roll. Topped with a golden egg wash and sprinkled with sesame seeds, these buns have a beautiful crust that contrasts perfectly with the soft interior.
Brioche has its origins in French baking, where it has been cherished for centuries as a luxurious bread suitable for both sweet and savory dishes. The dough is rich yet light, making these buns versatile enough to accompany a gourmet burger or to be slathered with jam for breakfast. Despite their sophisticated reputation, brioche buns are surprisingly simple to make at home, with just a bit of patience and love for the craft of baking. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice, this recipe will guide you through the process of creating these golden, buttery delights that will elevate any meal.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- Dough Ingredients:
- 70 g (2.5 oz) sugar
- 10 g (0.4 oz) dried yeast
- 450 ml (15 fl oz) warm milk
- 200 g (7.1 oz) butter, melted
- 800 g (28 oz) all-purpose flour
- 5 g (0.2 oz) salt
- 10 g (0.4 oz) baking powder
- 10 eggs
- Egg Wash:
- 1 egg
- 30 ml (1 fl oz) milk
- Topping:
- 30 g (1.1 oz) sesame seeds
- Boiling Liquid:
- 2 liters (68 fl oz) water
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Rising Time: 2 hours
Baking Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours
Servings: 12 buns
Steps to Make It
1. Activate the Yeast
- In a large bowl, combine the warm milk (about 37°C/98°F) with the sugar and dried yeast. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.
2. Prepare the Dough
- In a separate large bowl, sift together the flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Beat the eggs in a medium bowl and add them to the yeast mixture. Slowly incorporate the melted butter, ensuring it’s not too hot, to avoid cooking the eggs.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the flour mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes on a floured surface or in a stand mixer with a dough hook until smooth and elastic.
3. First Rise
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
4. Shape the Buns
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball by pulling the edges toward the bottom and rolling gently.
5. Prepare the Boiling Water
- Bring 2 liters of water to a gentle simmer. This step helps achieve a slightly denser crust, akin to pretzel-style brioche buns. Briefly dip each bun into the simmering water for 20 seconds, then remove and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Second Rise
- Allow the buns to rise again for about 30 minutes, or until they puff up slightly. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) during this time.
7. Egg Wash and Topping
- Whisk together the egg and milk for the egg wash. Brush each bun generously with the mixture, ensuring even coverage. Sprinkle sesame seeds liberally over the tops.
8. Bake the Buns
- Place the buns in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Cool and Serve
- Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature.
Why This Recipe is Timeless
Brioche buns are timeless because they combine simplicity with elegance. Their rich, buttery flavor is universally appealing, while their pillowy texture provides a sense of indulgence. Bread is a staple in nearly every culture, and enriched breads like brioche represent the pinnacle of what can be achieved with humble ingredients like flour, yeast, and eggs.
These buns are adaptable to any occasion, whether you’re hosting a sophisticated brunch, making gourmet burgers, or preparing a simple yet luxurious breakfast. Their versatility, combined with their irresistible flavor, ensures they remain a beloved recipe in kitchens around the world.
Nutritional Facts (per bun)
- Calories: 330 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 9g
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Sugar: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
- Sodium: 220mg
FAQs
1. Can I use instant yeast instead of dried yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast. Use the same amount and skip the activation step; just mix it directly into the dry ingredients.
2. What if my dough is too sticky?
Brioche dough is naturally sticky due to the high butter and egg content. Lightly flour your hands and work surface, but avoid adding too much extra flour to maintain the dough’s softness.
3. How can I make the buns sweeter?
Increase the sugar to 100 g (3.5 oz) for a sweeter dough, ideal for breakfast buns or to pair with sweet spreads.
Tips for Perfect Brioche Buns
- Use Room-Temperature Ingredients:
- Ensure the eggs and butter are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother dough.
- Don’t Rush the Rising Process:
- Allow the dough to rise fully for a light, airy texture. Patience is key when making brioche.
- Experiment with Toppings:
- Try poppy seeds, coarse sea salt, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for different variations.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature:
- Store the buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Freezing:
- Freeze the baked buns in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in a warm oven for a fresh taste.
Conclusion
Golden Sesame Seed Brioche Buns are a testament to the art of baking. Their soft, buttery texture and rich flavor make them a luxurious addition to any meal. While they require patience and care, the end result is more than worth the effort—a batch of golden, pillowy buns that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests. These timeless buns are a reminder that the best things in life are often the simplest. Enjoy the joy of baking, and savor every bite of these homemade brioche buns.