Braided Chocolate Chip Brioche Recipe Made Easy

Who doesn’t love the irresistible combination of soft, fluffy brioche and sweet, melty chocolate chips? This Braided Chocolate Chip Brioche Recipe is a showstopper that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a decadent dessert, it combines rich flavors with a beautiful braided design that will impress anyone at the table.

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Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious beginner, this recipe simplifies the process while delivering bakery-quality results. So, grab your apron, and let’s create a masterpiece that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat!

Key Benefits of Braided Chocolate Chip Brioche

Making this Braided Chocolate Chip Brioche Recipe at home is more than just a baking project—it’s an experience filled with delightful results. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Soft and Fluffy Texture: The brioche dough creates a light, airy bread with just the right amount of chewiness. It’s a bakery classic made easy for home bakers.
Rich, Decadent Flavor: The combination of buttery dough and pockets of sweet chocolate chips makes every bite irresistible.
Stunning Presentation: The braided design isn’t just for looks—it creates an even bake and ensures every slice is picture-perfect.
Versatility: This brioche is perfect for various occasions, from a leisurely Sunday brunch to a comforting dessert with coffee.

Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver both flavor and style. Plus, it’s beginner-friendly, so even if you’re new to braiding dough, you’ll find this recipe approachable and fun to try!

Ingredients for Braided Chocolate Chip Brioche

Before diving into the recipe, let’s gather everything you’ll need. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will ensure your brioche turns out soft, buttery, and absolutely irresistible.

Essential Ingredients:

Bread Flour (3 ½ cups): Provides the structure for a soft yet sturdy dough.
Granulated Sugar (¼ cup): Adds a subtle sweetness to balance the chocolate chips.
Active Dry Yeast (2 ¼ tsp): Helps the dough rise, giving it that fluffy texture.
Warm Milk (1 cup): Activates the yeast and keeps the dough tender.
Unsalted Butter (½ cup, softened): Infuses the dough with a rich, buttery flavor.
Large Eggs (3): Contribute to the bread’s soft texture and golden hue.
Salt (1 tsp): Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (1 cup): The star ingredient, creating pockets of gooey, melty chocolate in every bite.

Optional Additions:

Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): For a hint of warm, aromatic flavor.
Orange Zest (1 tsp): Adds a subtle citrusy brightness that complements the chocolate.

Tools You’ll Need:

Large mixing bowl
Stand mixer with a dough hook (optional, but helpful)
Plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel
Baking sheet lined with parchment paper

Having everything prepped and ready will make the process seamless and enjoyable. Once you’ve gathered these essentials, you’re all set to start crafting your braided masterpiece!

How to Make Braided Chocolate Chip Brioche

Hands braiding chocolate chip-studded dough ropes on a floured surface, with an egg wash bowl and a parchment-lined baking tray in the background. — Braiding chocolate chip dough to create a stunning braided brioche loaf, with tools and ingredients ready for the next steps in the baking process.

Creating a Braided Chocolate Chip Brioche may seem complex, but it’s simpler than you think when broken down into manageable steps. Let’s walk through the process together, ensuring you achieve a stunning and delicious loaf every time.

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Warm the milk to about 110°F (43°C)—it should feel warm but not hot.
In a small bowl, mix the warm milk and sugar until dissolved. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. A foamy layer will form, indicating the yeast is ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt. Make a small well in the center.
Pour in the yeast mixture, then add the eggs and softened butter. Mix the ingredients until a rough dough forms.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-6 minutes. The dough should be smooth, slightly elastic, and just a little sticky to the touch.

Step 3: Add the Chocolate Chips

Flatten the dough gently and sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over it.
Fold the dough over the chips and knead briefly, just enough to incorporate them without crushing them.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning it to coat all sides lightly. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.
Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Shape and Braid

Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release air. Divide the dough into three equal portions.
Roll each portion into a rope about 12-14 inches long. Lay the ropes parallel on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Pinch the ends of the ropes together at one end, then braid them carefully. Once you reach the end, pinch the ropes together and tuck the ends underneath.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the braided loaf loosely with plastic wrap or a towel and let it rise again for 30-40 minutes. The dough should become slightly puffy but still hold its shape.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly brush the loaf with a beaten egg to achieve a golden, glossy finish.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the brioche is golden brown and emits a hollow sound when tapped.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Transfer the bread to a wire rack and let it cool completely before slicing. This allows the flavors to settle and the texture to firm up perfectly.

Now you have a beautiful, braided brioche that’s soft, buttery, and studded with rich chocolate chips. It’s perfect for a luxurious breakfast, a brunch centerpiece, or a delightful dessert. Enjoy the satisfaction of baking something truly special!

Pro Tips and Variations

Want to take your Braided Chocolate Chip Brioche to the next level? Here are some expert tips and creative variations to ensure your bread is as impressive as it is delicious.

Pro Tips for Perfect Brioche

Measure Ingredients Precisely: For consistent results, use a kitchen scale to measure your flour and other ingredients accurately.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature. This helps the dough blend more smoothly.
Avoid Overproofing: During both rises, keep an eye on the dough. Overproofing can cause the loaf to lose its structure and deflate during baking.
Create a Warm Proofing Environment: If your kitchen is cool, place the dough in an oven with the light on or near a warm surface to encourage rising.
Egg Wash for Shine: Don’t skip the egg wash—it gives the brioche its characteristic golden, glossy finish.

Tasty Variations to Try

Cinnamon Sugar Twist: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar to the dough before braiding for a warm, spiced twist.
Nutty Addition: Mix in chopped nuts, such as hazelnuts or almonds, for added crunch and flavor.
Orange-Chocolate Delight: Incorporate orange zest into the dough to complement the chocolate chips with a zesty citrus note.
Dairy-Free Version: Substitute plant-based butter and almond or oat milk to make the brioche dairy-free.
Dark Chocolate Lover’s Brioche: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for chunks of dark chocolate for a richer flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Dough Too Sticky? Lightly dust your hands and work surface with flour, but avoid adding too much, as this can make the brioche dense.
Loaf Not Rising? Check that your yeast is fresh and your proofing environment is warm enough.
Braiding Woes? If your dough ropes are uneven, gently roll them out again and start over. The braid doesn’t need to be perfect to look beautiful!

Experimenting with these tips and variations not only makes your brioche unique but also boosts your confidence as a baker. Have fun trying out new flavors and textures to create a loaf that reflects your personal touch!

Serving Suggestions

Your freshly baked Braided Chocolate Chip Brioche is a treat that deserves to be enjoyed in all its buttery, chocolatey glory. Here are some ideas to serve and savor this delightful bread.

For Breakfast or Brunch

Simple and Warm: Serve slices slightly warm with a pat of salted butter or a drizzle of honey for a comforting start to your day.
With Fresh Fruit: Pair with a side of fresh berries or sliced citrus to balance the sweetness with a burst of freshness.
Toasted Perfection: Lightly toast a slice and spread it with cream cheese or hazelnut spread for a decadent twist.

For Dessert

Brioche Bread Pudding: Transform leftover slices into a rich bread pudding by soaking them in a vanilla custard and baking until golden.
Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use thick slices of brioche to make indulgent ice cream sandwiches—perfect for summer evenings!
Chocolate Fondue: Cut the brioche into chunks and serve with a pot of melted chocolate or caramel for dipping.

For Entertaining

Tea Party Treat: Serve your brioche as part of a tea party spread alongside scones, jams, and freshly brewed tea.
Elegant Cheese Pairing: Combine slices of brioche with soft cheeses like brie or camembert for a sophisticated appetizer.
Mini Brioche Canapés: Use smaller slices or shapes of brioche as a base for sweet or savory toppings, like smoked salmon or whipped mascarpone with berries.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Keep It Fresh: Store your brioche in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Freeze for Later: Slice the brioche, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven for a freshly baked taste.
Reheat Gently: For warm slices, place the brioche in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes.

This versatile bread is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the taste buds. Whether you enjoy it as part of a hearty breakfast, an elegant dessert, or a party-ready centerpiece, this braided chocolate chip brioche will elevate any occasion. Enjoy!

Conclusion

Baking a Braided Chocolate Chip Brioche at home is a truly rewarding experience. This recipe combines the soft, buttery texture of classic brioche with the irresistible sweetness of chocolate chips, creating a loaf that looks as impressive as it tastes. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this step-by-step guide simplifies the process, making it approachable and fun.

The best part? This brioche is incredibly versatile. Enjoy it warm from the oven, dress it up for special occasions, or use leftovers to create exciting new dishes. Each bite is a testament to the love and care you’ve put into making something from scratch.

So, why not give it a try? Gather your ingredients, set aside a little time, and let the magic of baking fill your home with warmth and the aroma of fresh bread. Trust me, one slice of this braided chocolate chip brioche, and you’ll be hooked. Happy baking!

braided chocolate chip brioche recipe

sandra

Learn how to make a soft, buttery braided chocolate chip brioche recipe with easy steps, pro tips, and variations. Perfect for breakfast or dessert!

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 25

Total Time 2 45

Course Breakfast

Cuisine French-inspired

Servings 10 slices

Calories 280 kcal