Description
This braided chocolate chip brioche is the ultimate homemade treat—soft, buttery, and filled with rich, melty chocolate chips. With its golden, glossy crust and pillowy interior, this stunning braided loaf is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special dessert. Whether you enjoy it fresh, toasted with butter, or transformed into French toast, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ cup (120ml) warm milk (100-110°F / 37-43°C)
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened and cubed
- 1 cup (170g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tbsp milk
Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Make the Dough
- In a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, mix the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the eggs and yeast mixture, mixing on low speed until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Incorporate the Butter
- Gradually add the softened butter, a few cubes at a time, while mixing.
- Increase to medium speed and knead for 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and slightly sticky.
4. Fold in the Chocolate Chips
- Gently mix in the chocolate chips, ensuring even distribution.
5. First Rise (Proofing)
- Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Shape the Braid
- Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal portions.
- Roll each portion into a 12-inch rope.
- Place the ropes side by side and braid them together, tucking the ends underneath.
7. Second Rise
- Transfer the braided dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover loosely, and let it rise for 45 minutes.
8. Egg Wash & Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brush the brioche with egg wash, then bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Cool & Enjoy
- Let the bread cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temp eggs and butter ensures a smooth, even dough.
- Proofing Tip: If your kitchen is cold, place the dough inside a turned-off oven with the light on to create a warm environment.
- Storage: Store at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Serving Ideas: Delicious toasted with butter, jam, or Nutella! Also perfect for French toast or bread pudding.
- Variations: Add orange zest, cinnamon, or swap the chocolate chips for white chocolate or nuts.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Proofing Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread, Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 260 kcal
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Braided chocolate chip brioche, homemade brioche, soft brioche recipe, easy brioche bread, chocolate chip bread, French brioche, bakery-style brioche, best chocolate chip brioche, breakfast bread, sweet bread recipe