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A freshly baked braided chocolate chip brioche loaf with a golden-brown crust, topped with chocolate chips, placed on a wooden cutting board with a knife, scattered chocolate chips, and baking ingredients in the background.

Braided Chocolate Chip Brioch

This beautifully braided chocolate chip brioche is soft, buttery, and filled with delicious pockets of chocolate. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat, this brioche is sure to impress! With options to make it vegan or gluten-free, you can easily customize it to suit your dietary needs.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
RISE TIME 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Course Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine European, French
Servings 10
Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients:

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour or use a gluten-free flour blend
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast one packet

Wet Ingredients:

  • 4 large eggs or vegan egg replacer
  • 1/2 cup warm milk or non-dairy alternative
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened (or plant-based butter)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Special Add-In:

  • 1 cup chocolate chips or more for extra chocolatey goodness

Instructions
 

  • Would you like to create images for each instruction step? 😊 Let me know, and I'll generate them for you!

1️⃣ Activate the Yeast

  • Warm the milk to about 100°F (37°C).
  • Stir in 1 teaspoon of sugar and the yeast.
  • Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

2️⃣ Mix the Dough

  • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
  • Add the eggs and the activated yeast mixture.
  • Mix until a rough dough forms.

3️⃣ Knead and Add Butter

  • Knead for 8-10 minutes (by hand or in a stand mixer).
  • Gradually add the softened butter in small pieces.
  • Continue kneading until smooth and elastic.

4️⃣ Fold in the Chocolate Chips

  • Gently fold in the chocolate chips using a spatula.
  • Ensure even distribution without overmixing.

5️⃣ First Rise

  • Place dough in a greased bowl and cover.
  • Let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours until doubled.

6️⃣ Shape and Braid the Dough

  • Punch down the dough and divide into three equal portions.
  • Roll each portion into long strands.
  • Braid the strands, pinching the ends together.

7️⃣ Second Rise

  • Place the braided dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  • Cover and let rise for 45 minutes to 1 hour.

8️⃣ Egg Wash and Bake

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Brush the dough with a beaten egg for a golden finish.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, covering with foil if browning too quickly.

9️⃣ Cool and Serve

  • Let cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
  • Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Video

Notes

Pro Tips:
✅ Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensures even mixing and a smooth dough.
✅ Proper Kneading: Develops gluten for a light, airy texture.
✅ Proofing: Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for the best results.
Creative Variations:
🍊 Citrus Twist: Add orange zest for a fresh flavor.
🥜 Nutty Addition: Mix in toasted pecans or walnuts.
🍫 Chocolate Variety: Try dark, white, or ruby chocolate chips.
🌱 Vegan-Friendly: Use flax eggs, plant-based milk, and vegan butter
Keyword braided bread, braided chocolate chip brioche, chocolate chip bread, fluffy brioche, homemade brioche, no yeast bread, sweet bread recipe, yeast bread