Poppy brioche with condensed milk

Ingredients

Dough

350 grams (12.3 ounces) flour
5 grams (0.18 ounces) instant yeast
30 grams (1.06 ounces) sugar
50 grams (1.76 ounces or 3.5 tablespoons) warm water (up to 100°F | 38°C)
50 grams (1.76 ounces or 3.5 tablespoons) milk
2 pieces (large) eggs
50 grams (1.76 ounces or 3.5 tablespoons) butter

Filling

400 grams (14.1 ounces) condensed milk (chocolate, boiled, your choice)
100 grams (3.53 ounces) dry poppy seeds

Equipment

Mixing Bowls
You'll need at least two mixing bowls: one for kneading the dough and another for combining other ingredients. Using clear glass bowls can help you see everything blending together.
Saucepan
A medium-sized saucepan is perfect for heating the milk, sugar, and butter mixture. Make sure to stir constantly to prevent burning!
Rolling Pin
Invest in a sturdy rolling pin for evenly rolling out your dough. A silicone rolling pin can make clean-up a breeze.
Baking Tray
A high-quality baking tray ensures your pastry bakes evenly. Line it with parchment paper for easy removal and clean-up.

Instructions

Step 1

1. In a bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Cover with a towel and let it sit in a warm place.

Step 2

Using warm water (around 100°F or 38°C) speeds up the activation of the yeast.

Step 3

2. In a saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and butter. Heat the mixture until everything is completely melted, then remove it from the stove to cool.

Step 4

Make sure the mixture cools to room temperature before adding it to the yeast to avoid killing the yeast.

Step 5

3. Add the cooled milk mixture and eggs to the yeast and mix well. Gradually add sifted flour and stir until the mixture is homogeneous.

Step 6

Sifting flour helps to create a lighter dough by removing lumps.

Step 7

4. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it with your hands until it becomes shiny and smooth. Form the dough into a ball.

Step 8

Proper kneading develops gluten, which gives the dough its structure and elasticity.

Step 9

5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with clingfilm, and leave in a warm place for at least an hour until it doubles in size.

Step 10

The rising time may vary based on the temperature and humidity of your kitchen.

Step 11

6. Once doubled, roll out the dough into a rectangle. Spread the condensed milk over it and sprinkle with poppy seeds. Roll it up lengthwise and cut in half lengthwise. Form a braid with the two ends.

Step 12

Chilling the dough slightly before rolling can make it easier to handle.

Step 13

7. Place a round metal object, like an empty condensed milk can, on a baking tray. Wrap the braided dough around it and pinch the edges together. Cover and let rise for another 15 minutes.

Step 14

The metal object helps to maintain the shape while the dough rises and bakes.

Step 15

8. Preheat the oven to 347°F (175°C). Bake the brioche for about 45 minutes until browned. Once baked, brush the top with more condensed milk to form a sugar crust.

Step 16

Keep an eye on the brioche in the final minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.

Servings

**Serving Suggestions and Ideas** 🥐

Once your pastry is perfectly baked and has filled your kitchen with an irresistible aroma, it's time to think about the best way to serve it. Here are some creative ideas to make your pastry the star of any occasion:

Morning Delight: Serve a warm slice with your favorite morning coffee or tea for a comforting breakfast treat. The sweetness of the condensed milk and the crunch of the poppy seeds make a perfect start to any day.

Brunch Centerpiece: Planning a weekend brunch? This pastry pairs wonderfully with fresh fruits, cheese, and a selection of jams. Arrange everything on a large platter to create a rustic, charming presentation.

Decadent Dessert: Transform your pastry into an after-dinner delight by drizzling it with a bit of melted chocolate and serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of warm pastry and cold ice cream is simply divine!

However you choose to serve it, this pastry is sure to bring smiles and make any meal feel extra special. Enjoy! 🥧

Variations

**Gluten-Free and Vegan Variations** 🌱

Don't let dietary restrictions keep you from enjoying this delicious pastry! Here are some easy ways to make it gluten-free and vegan:

Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum to help mimic the elasticity of gluten for the best texture.

Vegan: Replace the milk with a non-dairy alternative like almond or soy milk. Use a vegan butter substitute in place of regular butter. For the eggs, you can use a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) as a binding agent.

These variations will ensure everyone can enjoy your delightful pastry, no matter their dietary needs. Happy baking! 🍃

Faq

Why isn't my dough rising?
Ensure your yeast is active by proofing with warm water. Also, check that your environment is warm enough for the dough to rise.
Can I use a different filling?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different fillings like fruit preserves, chocolate chips, or nuts.
How do I prevent my pastry from becoming too dry?
Keep an eye on baking times, and consider tenting your pastry with foil if it starts to darken too quickly. Also, avoid over-flouring your dough.
Can this recipe be halved?
Absolutely. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly. Smaller pastries may bake quicker than a full-sized one.
What's the best way to store leftover pastry?
Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It can also be frozen; just reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
How can I get a glossy finish on my pastry?
Brush the top of your pastry with a beaten egg or a mixture of milk and sugar before baking to achieve that beautiful golden sheen.