Toulouse Brioche

Introduction to Toulouse Brioche

The Toulouse Brioche is a traditional French pastry hailing from the culturally rich region of Toulouse. Known for its light, airy texture and subtle sweetness, this brioche has been a staple in French bakeries for centuries. The distinctive buttery flavor and golden crust are what set it apart from other bread-like baked goods. This exquisite combination has its roots in 15th-century France where it was first made to celebrate holidays and special occasions, showcasing the artistry of French baking.

Ingredients Needed for Toulouse Brioche

To prepare this timeless classic, you will need the following ingredients. Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor:

• All-Purpose Flour - 500 grams
• Sugar - 60 grams
• Salt - 10 grams
• Eggs - 5 large
• Unsalted Butter - 250 grams
• Whole Milk - 60 milliliters
• Active Dry Yeast - 10 grams

Preparing the Dough

Creating the perfect Toulouse Brioche begins with meticulous preparation. Start with the dough, which requires attention to detail to achieve the desired fluffy outcome.

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Begin by warming the whole milk to around 100°F (38°C). Add the active dry yeast to the milk, stirring gently to dissolve. Allow it to sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes frothy, a clear indication that the yeast has activated.

Step 2: Mixing the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the yeast mixture along with 4 of the eggs. Mix these ingredients together using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Step 3: Incorporate the Butter

Gradually incorporate the unsalted butter into the dough. It is essential to do this slowly, ensuring that each piece of butter is fully absorbed before adding the next one. This can take some time, but it is crucial for the dough's texture. Continue kneading the dough for about 10 to 15 minutes until it becomes glossy and pliable.

Setting and Resting the Dough

Once your dough is ready, it needs to be set aside to rest. This allows the gluten to relax and ferment, ultimately creating a light and airy brioche.

Step 4: First Rise

Transfer the dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm environment for about 1 to 1.5 hours. The dough should double in size during this period.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

After the first rise, gently deflate the dough by pressing down on it before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight. This makes it easier to handle and enhances the flavor profile of the brioche.

Shaping and Baking the Brioche

The next stage involves shaping the dough into its traditional form and preparing it for the oven.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) approximately 15 minutes before the next step. Ensure the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven for even baking.

Step 7: Shape the Dough

Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into the desired portions for your brioche—you can choose to make one large or multiple smaller loaves. Gently roll the dough into balls and place them in a greased brioche pan or a circular baking tin.

Step 8: Second Rise

Cover the shaped dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise again for another 30 to 60 minutes until it doubles in size. During this time, the dough should become puffy and light.

Step 9: Egg Wash

Before baking, beat the remaining egg with a tablespoon of water. Brush this egg wash over the top of the brioche to give it a rich, golden crust upon baking.

Step 10: Bake

Place the brioche into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 to 30 minutes until it reaches a deep golden brown color. Keep an eye on its progress and use a cooking timer to track the time.

Enjoying Toulouse Brioche

Once your Toulouse Brioche has cooled down slightly, it's ready to be enjoyed. This pastry pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea. Serve it with butter, jams, or marmalades for an enhanced flavor experience. Whether it's a part of a continental breakfast or an afternoon treat, the subtle sweetness and buttery texture make it a versatile and universally loved dish.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature, and your homemade brioche will remain fresh for several days. For an enticing experience, briefly warm it in the oven before serving.