Why Make This Recipe

Chocolate Brioche Bread is a delightful treat that combines the richness of brioche with the indulgence of chocolate. It’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any time you need a comforting snack. This soft, fluffy bread is sure to impress your family and friends, making it a fun recipe to try at home.

How to Make Chocolate Brioche Bread

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1/2 cup milk, warmed
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup dark chocolate, chopped or chocolate chips
1 egg (for egg wash)

Directions

In a bowl, combine warmed milk and sugar; add yeast and let it sit until frothy.
In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs; mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread the chocolate evenly, and roll it up tightly.
Cut the roll in half lengthwise, twist the two halves together, and form a braid.
Place in a greased loaf pan, cover, and let rise again for about 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Brush the braid with beaten egg.
Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Let cool before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Chocolate Brioche Bread

Serve Chocolate Brioche Bread warm or at room temperature. It makes a great breakfast with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also enjoy it as a dessert, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

How to Store Chocolate Brioche Bread

To store, wrap the bread in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature. It will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bread. Slice it before freezing for easy individual portions.

Tips to Make Chocolate Brioche Bread

Ensure your milk is warm, not hot, to help the yeast activate properly.
Knead the dough well to develop the gluten, which gives the bread its fluffy texture.
When rolling the dough, try to roll it tightly to ensure the chocolate is evenly distributed throughout the loaf.

Variation

You can experiment with different types of chocolate, like milk chocolate or white chocolate. For a nutty twist, add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans along with the chocolate.

FAQs

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast. You do not need to activate it in warm milk; simply mix it directly with the flour.

2. Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise, then refrigerate it overnight. The next day, let it come to room temperature before continuing with the recipe.

3. Why is my bread dense?
There could be several reasons, such as not kneading enough or not allowing it to rise properly. Make sure to follow the rising times closely for a lighter bread.