Vegan Brioche

Vegan brioche is a delightful twist on the classic French bread, perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of day. This recipe uses aquafaba instead of eggs, making it a soft, fluffy, and rich alternative. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh or transforming it into French toast, this vegan brioche is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you’ll find this recipe simple enough for beginner bakers.
• Rich Flavor: The use of vegan butter or olive oil ensures each bite is packed with deliciousness.
• Versatile Use: Enjoy it plain, toasted with jam, or as part of a decadent French toast.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or a special gathering, this brioche suits all events.
• Plant-Based Goodness: Made without eggs and dairy, this brioche is suitable for those following a plant-based lifestyle.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer with dough hook
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Loaf tin (2 – 2 ½ lb)
• Baking parchment
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer with dough hook: Makes kneading the dough easier and more efficient than doing it by hand.
• Loaf tin: Ensures that your brioche has the right shape while baking; using the correct size prevents overflow.
• Wire rack: Allows for proper cooling of the bread post-baking, ensuring optimal texture.

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Ingredients

Vegan brioche – this vegan version of the classic French bread is made with aquafaba instead of eggs. It is wonderfully soft, fluffy, rich and full of flavour. Includes options to make it with either vegan butter or olive oil.

For the Bread

• 300 g (2 ½ cups) white bread flour
• 200 g (1 ⅔ cups) plain (all-purpose) flour
• 10 g (3 tsp) fast action/instant yeast
• 50 g (¼ cup) caster/granulated sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 120 ml (½ cup) aquafaba (from 1 tin of chickpeas)*
• 200 ml (½ + ⅓ cup) unsweetened non-dairy milk (soy is best)**
• 1 Tbsp vanilla extract

For the Fat Component

• 200 g (7 oz / ½ + ⅓ cup) vegan block butter (NOT spreadable kind) OR 160ml (⅔ cup) mild olive oil

For the Glaze

• 1 Tbsp non-dairy milk
• 1 Tbsp maple syrup
• ½ tsp sunflower/vegetable oil

How to Make Vegan Brioche

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start the day before you want to bake the bread. Place the white bread flour and plain flour in a bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. Add the yeast to one side of the bowl and put salt and sugar on the other side; mix to combine.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

Add the aquafaba, non-dairy milk, and vanilla extract. Stir to form a rough dough. Then set your mixer on medium speed and knead until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, knead by hand on an unfloured surface.

Step 3: Incorporate Fat

Add softened vegan butter or olive oil into your dough mixture. Continue mixing until everything is combined into a sticky yet smooth dough. You may find it easier to incorporate by mixing by hand.

Step 4: First Rise

Keep kneading until your dough pulls away from bowl sides cleanly but remains soft. Transfer it into a bowl, cover it well, and place it in the fridge overnight for rising.

Step 5: Shape Your Loaf

The next day, punch down your risen dough. Line your loaf tin with baking parchment. You can shape it as one loaf or divide into smaller sections for pull-apart style—shape each piece into smooth balls before arranging them in two rows in your prepared tin.

Step 6: Second Rise

Loosely cover your loaf tin and let it rise until doubled in size—this can take about 1 – 2.5 hours depending on warmth.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F/gas mark 4 while preparing your glaze by whisking together non-dairy milk, maple syrup, and oil in a small bowl.

Step 8: Bake Your Brioche

Gently brush some glaze on top of your loaf before placing it in the oven. Bake for about 20 minutes then brush again with glaze before lowering oven temperature to 160°C/320°F/gas mark 3 for an additional bake time of about 25–30 minutes until fully cooked through.

Step 9: Cooling Time

Once baked thoroughly, cool in the tin for around 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Store any leftovers in an airtight container once cooled down fully.

Enjoy making this delicious Vegan Brioche that’s perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Vegan Brioche

Vegan brioche is a versatile and delightful bread that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you choose it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, there are plenty of serving ideas to enhance your experience.

With Vegan Butter and Jam

• Spread a generous layer of vegan butter and top with your favorite fruit preserves for a classic breakfast treat.

As French Toast

• Dip slices of vegan brioche in a mixture of non-dairy milk and cinnamon, then cook until golden brown for a comforting brunch option.

With Avocado and Tomato

• Top toasted brioche with smashed avocado, sliced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of salt for a fresh and satisfying meal.

With Nut Butter

• Enjoy thick slices of brioche slathered with almond or peanut butter, perfect for an energy-boosting snack.

As a Sweet Dessert

• Slice the brioche into thick pieces and serve warm with dairy-free ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

With Salad

• Use brioche as the base for a savory salad topping. Toasted cubes add delightful crunch to fresh greens.

How to Perfect Vegan Brioche

Creating the perfect vegan brioche takes some attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your loaf turns out fluffy and delicious.

• Use Accurate Measurements: Precision in measuring flour and liquids is crucial. Too much flour can lead to dryness while too little may result in a dense loaf.

• Knead Thoroughly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This helps develop gluten, giving the bread its structure.

• Allow Proper Rise Time: Letting the dough rise overnight in the fridge enhances flavor. Be patient; the longer fermentation improves texture.

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperature settings. Baking at the right temperature is key for even cooking.

• Brush with Glaze Before Baking: Applying a glaze made from non-dairy milk and maple syrup gives your brioche a beautiful golden finish.

• Cool Completely Before Slicing: Allowing the brioche to cool completely prevents it from becoming gummy when sliced.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Brioche

Pairing your vegan brioche with complementary side dishes can elevate any meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fresh Fruits: Seasonal fruits like berries or sliced bananas add freshness and balance sweetness.
2. Chia Seed Pudding: A creamy chia pudding made with non-dairy milk offers a nutritious contrast to soft brioche.
3. Green Salad: A simple green salad drizzled with vinaigrette adds crunch and acidity, balancing the richness of the bread.
4. Soups: Serve slices alongside hearty vegetable soups for a satisfying combination on cooler days.
5. Coconut Yogurt Parfait: Layer coconut yogurt with granola and fruits for a delicious breakfast or snack option.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a sweet-savory contrast to the fluffy texture of brioche.
7. Hummus Platter: Pairing with hummus and veggie sticks makes for an enjoyable appetizer or light lunch option.
8. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies bring warmth and flavor that complements the richness of the bread beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking vegan brioche can be a delightful experience, but certain common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Ignoring the dough’s hydration: If the dough feels too dry, it won’t rise properly. Always check that your measurements are accurate, especially with flour and liquid.

• Not kneading enough: Insufficient kneading can result in a dense brioche. Make sure to knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic for the best texture.

• Skipping the overnight rise: This step is crucial for developing flavor and texture. Avoid rushing by letting the dough rest in the fridge overnight.

• Over-proofing the dough: If you let the dough rise too long, it may collapse. Monitor its size; it should double but not exceed that.

• Neglecting to preheat the oven: Baking in an unheated oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven before baking to ensure even rising and browning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your vegan brioche in an airtight container.
• It will keep fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Vegan Brioche

• Wrap individual slices or whole loaves in plastic wrap.
• Use aluminum foil for extra protection; it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Vegan Brioche

• Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F) and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat slices on low power for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat; cover with a lid for even warming without drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about vegan brioche:

What is Vegan Brioche?

Vegan brioche is a plant-based version of traditional French bread made without eggs or dairy. It uses aquafaba as an egg substitute, resulting in a soft and fluffy texture.

Can I make Vegan Brioche gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute gluten-free flour blends, though this may affect texture and flavor. Be sure to follow a recipe specifically designed for gluten-free baking for best results.

How do I enhance the flavor of Vegan Brioche?

You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or include citrus zest for added depth. Experimenting with different extracts can also provide unique flavors.

How long does Vegan Brioche last?

When stored properly, vegan brioche can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

This vegan brioche recipe offers an indulgent yet versatile option that’s perfect for breakfast or any occasion. Whether enjoyed plain, toasted, or as French toast, it’s bound to please everyone. Feel free to customize it with your favorite flavors or toppings!