There’s nothing quite like the sweet scent of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen—a warm embrace that invites everyone to gather around the table. Recently, as I played with flour and chocolate chips, a delightful idea struck me: Buttery-Soft Chocolate Chip Brioche Rolls. These heavenly treats combine the rich, buttery texture of brioche with the gooey goodness of chocolate, creating a perfect pairing for breakfast, snack time, or that special potluck.
I discovered this recipe during a leisurely weekend, when the world outside seemed to slow down, making it the perfect opportunity to indulge in the art of baking. With an easy-to-follow process and minimal equipment, these rolls are surprisingly simple to make. Each bite is light yet rich, fluffy yet decadent—exactly what I needed to break free from the monotony of fast food! So, if you’re ready to impress your family or simply treat yourself, read on. You won’t want to miss out on the joy of making these delightful brioche rolls!
Why Are Buttery-Soft Chocolate Chip Brioche Rolls Amazing?
Decadence in Every Bite: These buttery-soft chocolate chip brioche rolls strike the perfect balance between rich flavors and fluffy textures, making them irresistible with every mouthful.
Baking Made Easy: With simple steps and easy ingredients, you don’t need to be a pro to create bakery-quality rolls in your own kitchen.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a crowd-pleasing dessert at your next gathering, these rolls are sure to delight everyone.
Versatile Indulgence: Enjoy them warm right out of the oven or store them for later—either way, they maintain their deliciousness beautifully.
Comforting Aroma: The warm, inviting scent of fresh-baked brioche fills your home, turning every baking session into a cherished moment.
Ready to bring joy to your kitchen? Discover more easy and delightful recipes like these brioche rolls that will transform your cooking experience!
Buttery-Soft Chocolate Chip Brioche Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
- ½ cup water – This activates the yeast, ensuring your rolls rise perfectly.
- ½ cup milk – Adds moisture, richness, and tenderness to the brioche.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – Provides that signature buttery flavor; be sure to melt it for easy incorporation.
- 3 eggs – Essential for richness and structure; use large eggs for best results.
- 3 tablespoons sugar – Sweetens the dough and enhances the golden color when baked.
- 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour – Use this as a starting point; additional flour may help if dough is too sticky.
- 1 ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast – Quick and reliable, ensuring a fluffy texture for your butter-soft chocolate chip brioche rolls.
For the Filling and Topping
- 1 ½ cups chocolate chips – Choose semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a delightful melted surprise.
- 1 egg beaten – This egg wash gives the rolls a shiny, golden crust after baking.
- Sparkling or pearl sugar – Adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal on top of your rolls.
How to Make Buttery-Soft Chocolate Chip Brioche Rolls
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Combine liquids: In a microwave-safe bowl, mix the water, milk, and butter. Heat on low power for 45-60 seconds until the butter melts and the mixture is warm. Stir well to dissolve everything.
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Mix ingredients: Place the warm milk mixture, eggs, sugar, flour (starting with 3 ¾ cups), salt, and instant yeast in your stand mixer. Use the dough hook to mix on low, then increase to medium and knead for about 8-10 minutes until slightly sticky but forms a cohesive ball.
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Adjust consistency: If your dough feels too sticky, gradually add flour one tablespoon at a time, allowing it to mix in before adding more—aim for a soft, slightly tacky texture.
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Incorporate chocolate: Once smooth and elastic, reduce the mixer speed to low and add the chocolate chips. Knead just until they are evenly distributed, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
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Let it rise: Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
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Shape the rolls: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and divide it into 18 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball, ensuring they are uniform in size for even baking.
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Prepare for a second rise: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the dough balls on the sheet with about 2 inches of space between each. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle sparkling or pearl sugar on top. Cover loosely with greased plastic wrap and let rise for about 45 minutes until puffy.
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Preheat the oven: During the last 10 minutes of the second rise, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready for baking.
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Bake: Bake the rolls for 15-17 minutes, or until golden brown and they sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. If browning too fast, tent with aluminum foil for the last few minutes.
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Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly. Enjoy warm or let cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.
Optional: Serve with a spread of butter for an extra indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These buttery-soft chocolate chip brioche rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the mixing and rising steps, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. For best results, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping the rolls. You can also shape the rolls and place them on the baking sheet, then cover them tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, allow the rolls to rise until puffy, about 45 minutes, brush with egg wash, and then bake as directed. This way, you’ll have delicious, bakery-quality brioche rolls ready with minimal last-minute effort!
What to Serve with Buttery-Soft Chocolate Chip Brioche Rolls?
Creating a delightful meal is all about balancing flavors and textures, especially alongside these warm, chocolatey treats.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A bright and refreshing medley of seasonal fruits that adds a sweet and tangy contrast to the rich brioche rolls.
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Smooth Vanilla Yogurt: The creamy, luscious texture and subtle sweetness of yogurt provide a delightful, tangy counterpoint to the rolls’ rich chocolate.
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Savory Breakfast Casserole: A hearty casserole filled with eggs, cheese, and vegetables creates a satisfying balance to the sweet brioche, perfect for brunch gatherings.
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Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it’s perfect for dolloping atop warm rolls, enhancing their sweet chocolate goodness.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: A comforting drink that echoes the chocolatey flavor of the rolls, making for a decadent pairing on chilly days.
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Crisp Bacon Strips: The salty, savory crunch of bacon acts as the perfect contrast to the sweet and buttery rolls, balancing the meal beautifully.
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzling warm caramel over baked rolls adds an extra layer of indulgence, enriching each bite with gooey sweetness.
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Berry Compote: A warm, comforting fruit compote allows the fruity flavors to shine against the rolls’ tender richness, creating a splendid contrast.
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Chai Latte: The warm spices of a chai latte enhance the flavors in the rolls, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for any gathering.
Buttery-Soft Chocolate Chip Brioche Rolls Variations
Unlock the potential of your buttery-soft chocolate chip brioche rolls by exploring these delightful tweaks and substitutes.
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Whole Wheat: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. This twist adds buoyancy while still keeping it soft.
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Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. They complement the chocolate beautifully, enhancing texture with every bite.
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Flavor Infusion: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract into the dough for an aromatic twist that elevates the flavor profile. This small splash creates a memorable, comforting experience.
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Dairy-Free: Replace milk and butter with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk and coconut oil for a vegan version. You’ll still enjoy that lovely soft texture without dairy!
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Fruit-Filled: Fold in ½ cup of dried fruit like cranberries or cherries instead of chocolate chips for a fruity variation. This not only adds sweetness but also a lovely chewy contrast.
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Spicy Twist: Mix in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, comforting spice that makes your rolls feel even more indulgent on chilly days.
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Chocolaty Goodness: Try white chocolate or butterscotch chips in place of standard chocolate for a sweet twist. Different types of chocolate provide unique flavors that can surprise your palate!
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Savory Option: Add shredded cheese (like cheddar) instead of chocolate for a savory brioche roll that pairs perfectly with soups or stews. This alternative transforms them into a delightful side dish, perfect for any meal.
Expert Tips for Buttery-Soft Chocolate Chip Brioche Rolls
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Yeast Magic: Ensure your yeast is fresh and active—dissolve it in warm liquid to see if it foams, indicating it’s ready to work its magic.
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Kneading Technique: Don’t rush the kneading process! Properly knead the dough for 8-10 minutes to develop gluten, resulting in pillowy-soft chocolate chip brioche rolls.
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Perfect Rise: For the best rise, let your dough rise in a warm, draft-free area—consider using your oven with the light on as a cozy spot.
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Flour Adjustment: If your dough feels too sticky after mixing, gradually add flour, allowing the mixer to incorporate it fully—aim for a slightly tacky finish.
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Golden Glaze: Brush the tops of your rolls with the beaten egg mixture just before baking for a beautifully shiny, golden crust that’s irresistible!
Storage Tips for Buttery-Soft Chocolate Chip Brioche Rolls
Room Temperature: Keep the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and softness.
Fridge: If you want them to last a bit longer, store in the fridge for up to 5 days, but be aware that refrigeration may slightly alter their texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the rolls in a resealable bag for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before gently reheating.
Reheating: Warm the rolls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes or use the microwave for 15-20 seconds for that just-baked experience with your buttery-soft chocolate chip brioche rolls!
Buttery-Soft Chocolate Chip Brioche Rolls Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ingredients for my brioche rolls?
Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, especially for the butter, eggs, and chocolate chips, always go for the highest quality you can find. Opt for unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness, and use large, fresh eggs for the richest flavor and texture. For chocolate chips, semi-sweet or dark varieties are perfect as they melt beautifully and offer that sweet contrast to the dough.
What’s the best way to store leftover brioche rolls?
To keep your buttery-soft chocolate chip brioche rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last a bit longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just be cautious, as refrigeration can slightly affect their fluffy texture. When ready to enjoy, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or microwave for 15-20 seconds.
Can I freeze brioche rolls for later use?
Very! Freezing is a great way to extend the life of your brioche rolls. Allow them to cool completely first, then wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge and then reheat in the oven for that fresh-baked feel.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky while mixing?
It’s common for dough to become a bit sticky, but that’s easily fixable! If your dough clings too much after mixing, add extra flour one tablespoon at a time. Mix in each addition thoroughly before adding more, until the dough achieves a soft, slightly tacky texture. Remember, it’s better to start with less flour; you can always add more.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! If you have dietary restrictions, it’s important to consider substitutions. For dairy-free options, you can use almond or oat milk and substitute the butter with a dairy-free variety. Additionally, if you’re concerned about allergies, check that your chocolate chips are nut-free and dairy-free, if needed. Always have a conversation with guests about their dietary needs to ensure everyone can enjoy your delicious brioche rolls!
Can I use different flavors or fillings in my brioche rolls?
The more the merrier! You can easily customize your buttery-soft chocolate chip brioche rolls by adding various fillings. Consider mixing in nuts, dried fruit, or even swirls of cinnamon sugar. For a twist on flavor, try using white chocolate chips or a combination of chocolate chip types. Adjust according to your taste, and have fun exploring different combinations!
Buttery-Soft Chocolate Chip Brioche Rolls Your New Favorite Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine the water, milk, and butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat until the butter melts and the mixture is warm.
- In a stand mixer, mix the warm milk mixture, eggs, sugar, flour, salt, and instant yeast using the dough hook for 8-10 minutes.
- Adjust the consistency of the dough with additional flour if it feels too sticky.
- Add chocolate chips and knead just until incorporated.
- Let the dough rise in an oiled bowl, covered, in a warm area for about 1 hour.
- Divide the dough into 18 equal pieces and shape into balls.
- Place dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brushing with beaten egg and topping with sugar. Let rise for 45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) during the last 10 minutes of the rise.
- Bake for 15-17 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.