Introduction:
King’s Bread, also known as Brioche des Rois in French, is a beloved pastry with a rich, golden, and buttery texture. This traditional bread is often made to celebrate special occasions, particularly during the Epiphany season. It is slightly sweet, with a soft and tender crumb, and often topped with sugar, fruit, or almonds for added flavor. Known for its luxurious richness, King’s Bread is perfect for brunch, dessert, or simply as a special treat.
Ingredients:
4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
1/4 cup warm water (110°F)
4 large eggs, room temperature
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon orange zest (optional)
1/4 cup candied fruits (optional, for decoration)
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon coarse sugar (for topping)
Instructions:
Prepare the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, warm milk, and a pinch of sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the liquid and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until frothy.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
Combine Wet Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, vanilla extract, and orange zest (if using). Stir until combined.
Knead the Dough: Add softened butter a little at a time, mixing it in until fully incorporated. Then knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. You can knead by hand or use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Shape the Dough: Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope. Braid the ropes together to form a ring, tucking the ends under to seal it.
Second Rise: Place the braided dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, until puffed.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top of the dough with an egg wash (1 beaten egg with a tablespoon of water) and sprinkle with coarse sugar. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown. If the bread starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the bread cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with candied fruits or almonds if desired.
Description:
King’s Bread is known for its soft, airy, and buttery texture, combined with a delicate sweetness. Its rich flavor comes from the generous amount of butter, eggs, and a touch of vanilla and citrus zest. The bread is golden and slightly shiny thanks to the egg wash and coarse sugar sprinkled on top. This festive bread is often made into a ring shape, which symbolizes unity and completeness.
Tips:
Knead the Dough Properly: Proper kneading helps develop the gluten, which gives the bread its airy texture.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smoother dough.
Don’t Rush the Rising: Allow enough time for both the first and second rise. A slower rise helps develop flavor and texture.
Check Doneness: The bread is done when it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom or when the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).
Variations:
Fruit Fillings: You can add raisins, candied citrus peel, or dried cranberries for a fruity twist.
Nutty Flavor: Add chopped almonds or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
Flavored Glazes: After baking, you can glaze the bread with a lemon or orange glaze for a citrusy finish.
Add a “King”: Traditionally, a small figurine or bean is hidden inside the bread, and the person who finds it is crowned king or queen for the day!
Correction:
If your dough feels too sticky, add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time. If it’s too dry, add a little more warm water or milk to adjust the consistency.
Enjoy:
Serve warm with a cup of coffee or tea, or use it as an indulgent breakfast treat. This bread is perfect for celebrations and special moments, bringing a touch of royalty to your table!