Poppy Seed Brioche Rolls

Poppy Seed Brioche Rolls: A Gourmet Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F / 45°C)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons poppy seeds

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon water

Instructions:

Preparing the Dough:

1. In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. Add the warm milk, softened butter, and eggs to the dry mixture. Mix until a cohesive dough forms.
3. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for approximately 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If preferred, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step.
4. Gently incorporate the poppy seeds into the dough, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

First Rise:

1. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm environment for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Shaping the Rolls:

1. After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any trapped air.
2. Divide the dough into 12-16 equal portions, depending on your preferred roll size.
3. Shape each portion into a round ball and arrange them in greased small ramekins or a muffin tin.

Second Rise:

1. Cover the shaped rolls with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and allow them to rise for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until they have significantly puffed up.

Baking:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create the egg wash.
3. Brush the tops of the risen rolls with the egg wash to achieve a beautiful golden-brown finish.
4. Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Cooling and Serving:

1. Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
2. Serve warm or at room temperature. These delightful poppy seed brioche rolls are perfect on their own or paired with butter and jam.

Enjoy the rich, buttery flavor and the delicate texture of these exquisite poppy seed brioche rolls—an indulgence perfect for any occasion.