Ingredients

For the Brioche Dough:

• 500g all-purpose flour
• 50g sugar
• 10g salt
• 7g instant yeast (equivalent to 1 packet)
• 300ml warm milk (around 110°F/45°C)
• 1 large egg
• 50g unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons poppy seeds (plus extra for topping)

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 beaten egg
• 2 tablespoons water

Steps to Make Poppy Seed Brioche Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast
   In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and instant yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast begins to foam. This step is essential to ensure the yeast is active and will help the dough rise properly.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt. Stir to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
3. Add Wet Ingredients
   Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the dry ingredients, followed by the egg and softened butter. Mix everything together using a wooden spoon or your hands until the dough begins to come together.
4. Knead the Dough
   Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky. If the dough feels too sticky, add small amounts of flour as needed. This kneading process is important for developing the gluten, which gives the rolls their soft texture.
5. Let the Dough Rise
   Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm area for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape the Rolls

1. Divide the Dough
   Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions (you can use a kitchen scale to ensure they are even). Roll each portion into a smooth ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a small gap between each roll for expansion.
2. Add Poppy Seeds
   Sprinkle poppy seeds over the top of each roll. Gently press them into the dough to ensure they stick, but be careful not to press too hard and deflate the rolls.

Step 3: Proof the Rolls

1. Second Rise
   Cover the rolls with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let them rise for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until they puff up and nearly double in size. This second rise is essential to achieving a light and airy texture in the rolls.

Step 4: Bake the Brioche Rolls

1. Preheat the Oven
   While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for baking the rolls, allowing them to cook through while developing a golden, slightly crisp exterior.
2. Egg Wash
   Before placing the rolls in the oven, brush them with the egg wash (1 beaten egg mixed with 2 tablespoons of water). This will give the rolls a beautiful, shiny finish.
3. Bake
   Once the rolls are proofed and brushed with the egg wash, bake them in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through. You can test if they are done by tapping the bottom of a roll—it should sound hollow.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Cool the Rolls
   Allow the rolls to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. While they can be eaten warm, letting them cool slightly will make them easier to handle and will help them firm up.
2. Serve
   These Poppy Seed Brioche Rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can also be served with butter, jam, or your favorite spreads. They also make an excellent side for savory dishes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Roll)

The following values are estimates based on one roll (without any additional spreads).

• Calories: 210 kcal
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Sugar: 5g
• Calcium: 40mg
• Iron: 1.5mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I make this dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance. After the first rise, punch it down, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, allow the dough to come to room temperature and proceed with shaping and baking the rolls as usual.

Q2: Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, you can. If you’re using active dry yeast, you’ll need to activate it in warm water before adding it to the dry ingredients. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.

Q3: What can I substitute for poppy seeds?
If you don’t have poppy seeds, you can substitute them with sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, or even leave them out entirely. The poppy seeds give a slight crunch and visual appeal, but the rolls will still be delicious without them.

Q4: How can I make these rolls more decadent?
To make the rolls even richer, you can add a few tablespoons of honey to the dough for a touch of sweetness. You could also add more butter or egg yolks for extra softness and flavor.

Q5: How do I store leftover brioche rolls?
To store leftover brioche rolls, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

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Tips for Making the Perfect Poppy Seed Brioche Rolls

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients
   Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature when making the dough. This will help the dough come together smoothly and rise better.
2. Don’t Overwork the Dough
   While it’s important to knead the dough, be careful not to overwork it. Over-kneading can lead to tough rolls, so stop as soon as the dough is smooth and elastic.
3. Let the Rolls Cool Before Storing
   Allow the rolls to cool completely before storing them to prevent condensation from making them soggy. Always store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Conclusion

These Poppy Seed Brioche Rolls are the perfect combination of soft, rich dough with a satisfying crunch from the poppy seeds. They are versatile enough to serve with both sweet and savory dishes, making them an excellent choice for breakfast, dinner, or a special treat. With a little patience and a few simple ingredients, you can create bakery-quality rolls at home that will impress your family and friends. Whether served alongside a hearty soup or enjoyed with a dollop of jam, these rolls are sure to become a beloved addition to your recipe collection.