Brioche

Brioche is a luxurious French bread known for its high butter and egg content, giving it a rich flavor and a soft, tender crumb. Its golden color and slightly sweet taste make it a versatile bread that can be enjoyed in both sweet and savory contexts.

Brioche dates back to the 15th century in France. It was traditionally associated with the upper classes due to its expensive ingredients. The bread gained notoriety during the French Revolution when Marie Antoinette allegedly said, "Let them eat brioche" (often mistranslated as "Let them eat cake") when told the peasants had no bread.

• Texture: Soft, tender, and pull-apart
• Color: Golden-brown exterior, yellow interior
• Flavor: Rich, buttery, and slightly sweet
• Ingredients: Flour, butter, eggs, milk, sugar, and yeast

Brioche dough contains a high proportion of butter and eggs, which must be carefully incorporated. The dough typically undergoes a long, cold fermentation to develop flavor and make it easier to handle. It can be shaped in various ways, with the classic "brioche à tête" having a small ball (the "head") on top of a larger base.

Brioche is incredibly versatile. It's used for French toast, hamburger buns, and as a base for sweet treats like the Bostock (almond brioche) or the Tarte Tropézienne. In France, it's often enjoyed for breakfast with jam or as a simple snack.