Description
A lovely specialty from the north of France, light, fluffy brioche cake, topped with caramelized sugar.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Brioche Dough:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp (12g) dry yeast
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup (67g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/3 cup (80ml) warm milk
Topping:
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar (cassonade preferred)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 stick (28g) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
Instructions
Step by Step Guide:
- Prepare Yeast Mixture:
- Heat milk in the microwave for 20 seconds. It should be warm, not hot.
- Dissolve 1 tbsp of sugar and the yeast in the warm milk. Whisk until smooth and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mixing the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
- Add in softened butter or shortening, the egg, and the yeast mixture.
- Mix with a spatula until a sticky dough forms.
- First Rise:
- Shape the dough into a ball, dust with a little flour.
- Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise at room temperature for 1.5 hours, until doubled in size.
- Pan Preparation:
- Lightly grease a 10-inch tart pan with cooking spray or butter.
- Forming the Brioche:
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough to fit the tart pan.
- Transfer the dough to the pan, pressing it gently to fit the bottom and sides.
- Cover and let rise for another 45 minutes.
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Brioche for Baking:
- Gently prick the dough all over with a fork.
- Prepare Topping:
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream.
- Assembling:
- Evenly spread brown sugar over the surface of the risen dough.
- Pour the egg and cream mixture over the sugar.
- Dot the top evenly with pieces of butter.
- Baking:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
- Let cool slightly before serving, enjoy warm for the best flavor!
Notes
- Ensure milk is warm to touch but not hot to activate the yeast without killing it.
- The dough should be sticky; avoid adding too much flour when shaping.
- Allow the brioche to cool for a few minutes after baking for easier slicing.
- Prep Time: 140 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French