Peach Brioche: A Deliciously Sweet Recipe for Summer Mornings

Peach brioche is a delightful treat that perfectly marries the sweetness of ripe peaches with the rich, buttery texture of traditional brioche. As I embarked on my culinary journey, I discovered that this recipe not only showcases the beauty of seasonal fruits but also pays homage to the French baking tradition. The origins of brioche date back to the 15th century, and it has since evolved into a beloved staple in many households around the world.

What I adore about peach brioche is its incredible versatility; it can be enjoyed as a breakfast delight, a luxurious dessert, or even a charming addition to a brunch spread. The combination of fluffy brioche and juicy peaches creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible. People love this dish not only for its taste but also for its convenience—it’s a perfect way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Join me as we dive into this scrumptious recipe that celebrates the essence of summer and the joy of baking!

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed to about 110°F (43°C)
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened and cut into pieces
• 2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

Preparing the Dough

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means your yeast is active and ready to go!
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients.
3. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, pour it into the well along with the eggs and vanilla extract. Using a wooden spoon or a dough hook attachment on your mixer, mix until the dough starts to come together.
4. Add the softened butter, a few pieces at a time, mixing well after each addition. The dough will be sticky, but that’s okay! It’s what makes brioche so deliciously rich.
5. Once all the butter is incorporated, knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If you’re using a stand mixer, knead on medium speed for about 5-7 minutes.
6. Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, turning it to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Preparing the Peaches

1. While the dough is rising, prepare the peaches. Peel and dice the fresh peaches into small pieces, about 1/2 inch in size.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the diced peaches with ground cinnamon and nutmeg (if using). Toss gently to coat the peaches evenly. Set aside to let the flavors meld.

Shaping the Brioche

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
2. Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a rectangle, about 12×8 inches in size.
3. Evenly distribute half of the peach mixture over one rectangle of dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Roll the dough tightly from one long side to the other, creating a log shape. Pinch the seams to seal.
4. Repeat the process with the second portion of dough and the remaining peach mixture.
5. Now, you can either place each log into a greased loaf pan or cut each log into smaller pieces to create individual rolls. If you choose to cut them, slice each log into 6-8 equal pieces and place them cut-side up in a greased baking dish.
6. Cover the pans with a kitchen towel and let the dough rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.

Baking the Brioche

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough is rising.
2. Once the dough has risen, brush the tops with the beaten egg to give it a beautiful golden color while baking.
3. Bake the brioche in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Remove the brioche from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Conclusion:

In summary, this peach brioche recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their baking game. The combination of soft, buttery brioche and sweet, juicy peaches creates a delightful treat that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. The versatility of this recipe allows you to serve it warm with a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience. Feel free to experiment with variations by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even incorporating other fruits such as blueberries or raspberries for a unique twist. You can also try making mini brioche loaves or rolls for individual servings that are perfect for sharing with friends and family. I encourage you to give this peach brioche recipe a try and share your experience with me! I would love to hear how it turned out for you and any creative variations you came up with. Trust me, once you taste this delightful combination, you’ll be hooked and eager to make it again. Happy baking! Print