There’s something truly special about homemade brioche—the rich, buttery flavor, the soft, fluffy texture, and that golden, slightly crisp crust. Now, imagine all of that goodness braided together with melty chocolate chips in every bite! This braided chocolate chip brioche recipe is easier than you think, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping brunch treat or a comforting homemade bread to enjoy with coffee, this recipe delivers. Ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked brioche? Let’s get started!
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Key Benefits of Braided Chocolate Chip Brioche recipe
Baking your own braided chocolate chip brioche isn’t just about making delicious bread—it’s about creating something special with your hands. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:
✅ Soft, Buttery Texture – This enriched dough, made with butter, eggs, and milk, gives the brioche its signature fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth feel.
✅ Rich Chocolate Flavor – Every bite is filled with gooey, melted chocolate chips, making it the perfect balance of sweet and indulgent.
✅ Impressive Yet Easy to Make – The braided design may look intricate, but with a little guidance, you’ll master it in no time!
✅ Perfect for Any Occasion – Enjoy it as a breakfast treat, a brunch centerpiece, or a comforting dessert. Serve it warm with coffee or tea for an extra cozy touch.
✅ Make-Ahead Friendly – The dough can be prepared in advance, so you can have freshly baked brioche ready whenever you need it.
With its irresistible flavor and stunning presentation, this homemade brioche will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need!
Ingredients for Braided Chocolate Chip Brioche recipe
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making a light, fluffy, and delicious braided chocolate chip brioche. Here’s everything you’ll need:
For the Brioche Dough:
- 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour – Provides structure and elasticity.
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness.
- 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast – Helps the dough rise for that soft, airy texture.
- ½ cup (120ml) warm milk – Activates the yeast and enriches the dough.
- 3 large eggs – Brings richness and helps with the dough’s structure.
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened – Adds that classic buttery flavor and tenderness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the overall sweetness and aroma.
- ½ tsp salt – Balances the flavors.
For the Chocolate Filling:
- ¾ cup (130g) chocolate chips – Use dark, milk, or semi-sweet chocolate for your preferred taste.
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted – Helps the chocolate stay in place during braiding.
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp milk – Creates a beautiful golden-brown crust.
Ingredient Tips & Substitutions:
✔ Flour Options: Swap all-purpose flour with bread flour for a chewier texture.
✔ Yeast Choice: Instant yeast can replace active dry yeast; just skip the proofing step.
✔ Chocolate Varieties: Try chopped chocolate bars for a more intense chocolate experience.
✔ Dairy-Free Adaptation: Substitute butter with vegan butter and milk with almond or oat milk.
Now that you have everything ready, let’s move on to making this incredible brioche!
How to Make Braided Chocolate Chip Brioche recipe
Creating this braided chocolate chip brioche may look fancy, but it’s easier than you think! Follow these step-by-step instructions for a perfectly soft, golden, and chocolate-filled loaf.
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, warm the milk to about 110°F (43°C)—it should be warm, not hot.
- Stir in the yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar, then let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
This step guarantees that the yeast is active and prepared to make the dough rise
Step 2: Make the Brioche Dough
- In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer with a dough hook, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
- Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and activated yeast mixture. Mix until the dough starts coming together.
- Gradually add the softened butter, one piece at a time, kneading continuously. The dough will be sticky at first but will become smooth and elastic after about 8–10 minutes of kneading.
Step 3: First Rise (Proofing)
- Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1.5 to 2 hours or until doubled in size.
Tip: To speed up rising, place the bowl in a slightly warm oven (turned off) or near a warm spot in the kitchen.
Step 4: Shape and Braid the Dough
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air bubbles.
- Roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle (about 12×16 inches).
- Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the dough, pressing them in slightly.
- Cut the dough into three long strips, leaving the top edge connected.
- Braid the strips together, tucking the ends underneath.
Step 5: Second Rise
- Place the braided loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let it rest for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brush the loaf with egg wash for a glossy, golden crust.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the brioche is deep golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Step 7: Cool & Enjoy
- Let the brioche cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Now that your homemade chocolate chip brioche is ready, let’s explore some pro tips and delicious variations!
Pro Tips and Variations
This braided chocolate chip brioche is incredibly versatile and easy to personalize. Here are some pro tips and fun variations to help you make the most of this recipe!
Pro Tips for Perfect Brioche
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps the dough come together more easily and ensures a smooth texture.
- Kneading is Key: The dough should be smooth and elastic. If you’re using a stand mixer, knead for about 8 minutes. If you’re kneading by hand, it may take a little longer. The more you knead, the softer the brioche will be!
- Don’t Rush the Proofing: The dough needs time to rise properly, so be patient! Proofing helps develop the delicate, airy texture that makes brioche so special.
- Test for Doneness: To check if the brioche is baked through, tap the bottom of the loaf. It should sound hollow. If not, bake it a little longer, checking every 3 minutes.
Fun Variations
- Nutty Brioche: Add chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts along with the chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Fruit-Filled Brioche: Try adding dried fruit like raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots for a sweet, chewy bite.
- Spiced Brioche: Sprinkle ground cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm, spiced aroma that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
- Citrus Twist: Add a tablespoon of orange zest or lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing citrusy flavor that balances the richness of the brioche.
- Vegan Option: Replace the butter with vegan butter and the milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version. Use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) as an egg substitute.
By adding your personal touch, you can customize this chocolate chip brioche to suit your taste. Whether you stick with the classic or try a fun variation, you’re in for a treat!
Serving Suggestions for Braided Chocolate Chip Brioche
Your braided chocolate chip brioche is perfect for any occasion! Whether it’s for breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or a special dessert, this soft and decadent treat is sure to impress. Here are a few serving ideas to enhance your experience:
1. Enjoy it Fresh & Warm
Nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked brioche! Slice it while it’s still warm, and enjoy the gooey chocolate chips melting in each bite. This is the perfect way to enjoy it on its own with a cup of coffee or tea.
2. Add a Dusting of Powdered Sugar
For a touch of sweetness and a refined look, dust the cooled brioche with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar. This adds an elegant finish and enhances the flavors.
3. Pair with Fresh Fruit & Whipped Cream
Serve slices of this decadent brioche alongside fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. A dollop of homemade whipped cream or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream would make for a delightful dessert.
4. Brioche French Toast
Transform your leftovers into a luxurious French toast the next day! Simply dip the brioche slices in a cinnamon-vanilla egg mixture and fry until golden. Top with syrup, more chocolate chips, and a dusting of powdered sugar for an indulgent brunch.
5. Toast & Spread with Nut Butter
Toast a slice of the brioche for a crispy, buttery bite and spread it with your favorite nut butter like almond or peanut butter. The creamy spread complements the richness of the brioche beautifully.
6. Serve with Coffee or Hot Chocolate
Pair this chocolate chip brioche with a warm beverage to take your treat to the next level. A rich coffee or a cup of hot chocolate enhances the chocolatey goodness and makes for a cozy snack.
This braided chocolate chip brioche is wonderfully versatile. Serve it in a variety of ways to suit your mood or the occasion—whether you’re keeping it simple or dressing it up for a special treat, it will always be a hit!
Conclusion
Your braided chocolate chip brioche is now ready to be enjoyed, and I’m sure it’ll quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire! This soft, buttery, and slightly sweet bread is perfect for almost any occasion, whether you’re treating yourself to something special or impressing guests at a gathering.
The charm of this recipe is in its versatility. It can be enjoyed as a sweet breakfast, a mid-afternoon snack, or transformed into a decadent French toast. The addition of chocolate chips brings a rich, melty center to every bite, while the braiding adds a touch of elegance.
The process of making braided chocolate chip brioche may take a little time, but the result is totally worth it. With the tips and variations provided, feel free to experiment and make it your own. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or get creative, your kitchen will soon be filled with the mouthwatering aroma of freshly baked brioche!
Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family—this recipe is bound to make memories and satisfy cravings. Happy baking!
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Braided Chocolate Chip Brioche recipe
Ingredients
Brioche Dough:
- 3 ½ cups 440g all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup 50g granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ tsp 1 packet active dry yeast
- ½ cup 120ml warm milk
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup 115g unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp salt
Chocolate Filling:
- ¾ cup 130g chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter melted
Egg Wash:
- 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp milk
Substitutions & Tips:
- Use bread flour for a chewier texture.
- Swap instant yeast for active dry yeast skip proofing.
- Try chopped chocolate bars instead of chips for richer flavor.
- Make it dairy-free with vegan butter and almond or oat milk.
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: Warm milk (110°F), mix with yeast and 1 tbsp sugar, let sit until foamy.
- Make Dough: Mix flour, sugar, salt, add eggs, vanilla, yeast mix, then knead in butter until smooth.
- First Rise: Cover dough, let rise 1.5–2 hours until doubled.
- Shape & Braid: Roll dough 12×16 inches, add chocolate chips, cut into three strips, braid.
- Second Rise: Let rest 30–45 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), brush with egg wash, bake 25–30 minutes.
- Cool & Enjoy: Let cool before slicing.
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Notes
- Calories: 330 kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Iron: 2.5mg
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you with your braided chocolate chip brioche recipe. These answers will address common concerns and give you helpful insights to ensure success in your baking journey!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough a day before you plan to bake. After the first rise, cover the dough and place it in the fridge overnight. The next day, let it come to room temperature before braiding and baking. This can save you time, especially if you’re prepping for a special occasion!
Can I freeze braided chocolate chip brioche?
Absolutely! If you want to store your brioche for later, you can freeze it. After baking and cooling, wrap the brioche tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place it in a freezer bag. It will last for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw at room temperature or warm it in the oven at a low temperature until heated through.
Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate! You can use dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate chips. You can also mix in chocolate chunks for a more rustic look and added texture.
What can I use if I don’t have a stand mixer?
No stand mixer? No problem! You can knead the dough by hand. Simply combine the ingredients in a large bowl, then knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. It might take a bit more elbow grease, but the results will be just as delicious!
Can I make this recipe without eggs?
Yes, you can make a vegan version of this brioche! Substitute the eggs with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) and use vegan butter and plant-based milk (such as almond or oat milk). The brioche will still be wonderfully soft and delicious.
How can I make the brioche dough fluffier?
To make your dough even fluffier, make sure to let it rise in a warm, draft-free place. You can also try adding a little more yeast (instant or active dry) to the dough for extra lift. Just be sure not to add too much, as it can affect the flavor.
By following these FAQs, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to bake the perfect braided chocolate chip brioche. Enjoy the process and feel free to reach out if you have any other questions!
Braided Chocolate Chip Brioche Recipe Recap
Recipe Details:
- Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 8-10
- Calories per Serving: 330 kcal (approx.)
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 330 kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Iron: 2.5mg
Categorize the Recipe:
- Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
- Cuisine: French, Bakery
- Diet: Vegetarian, Nut-Free (check for other allergies)
- Method: Baking
- Keyword: Braided chocolate chip brioche, brioche bread, chocolate chip brioche, easy brioche recipe
- Skill Level: Intermediate
Enjoy baking this delectable braided chocolate chip brioche, and let the perfect balance of sweetness and softness shine at your table!