Caramel Upside-Down Brioche

Name: Caramel Upside-Down Brioche
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 175 min
Yield: 12 servings
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 3 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting); 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 tbsp instant yeast; 1 tsp salt; 4 large eggs (room temperature); 1/2 cup whole milk (room temperature); 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup water; 1/2 cup heavy cream (warmed); 1/4 cup unsalted butter (cut into pieces); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp salt

175 min 12 servings Medium

All Recipes

Indulge in these soft brioche buns topped with a rich caramel glaze, perfect for a decadent dessert or sweet breakfast treat.

Prep

30 min

Cook

25 min

Total

175 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Caramel Upside-Down Brioche is a delightful combination of rich, buttery brioche dough and a luscious caramel topping. Originating from France, these brioches are a testament to the art of pastry making, where every bite is a melt-in-the-mouth experience. Perfect for a special breakfast or a sumptuous dessert, these brioches are as visually appealing as they are delicious. The caramel topping seeps into the dough as it bakes, creating a sticky-sweet crust that is simply irresistible. Whether you serve them warm from the oven or at room temperature, they are bound to impress anyone who takes a bite.

Instructions

Prepare the brioche dough

In a stand mixer bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add eggs and milk, and mix with a dough hook on medium speed until a dough forms. Gradually add butter, piece by piece, mixing until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Pro tip: The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.

First rise

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and shape it into a ball. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Pro tip: For the best rise, the dough should be kept at around 24°C (75°F).

Prepare the caramel topping

In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Cook over medium heat without stirring until the sugar turns golden brown. Remove from heat, then carefully whisk in warmed cream, butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Let cool slightly.

Pro tip: Be cautious when adding cream to avoid splattering.

Shape the brioches

Punch down the dough and turn it onto a floured surface. Divide it into 12 equal pieces and shape each into a ball. Place in greased muffin tins.

Pro tip: Ensure even sizes for uniform baking.

Final rise

Cover the shaped brioche balls with a kitchen towel and let them rise in a warm place until puffed, about 30 minutes.

Pro tip: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) during this time.

Bake the brioches

Spoon caramel sauce over each brioche. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and a hollow sound is heard when tapped.

Pro tip: Internal temperature should reach 88°C (190°F).

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Tips & Tricks

Use a stand mixer for easier dough kneading.
Ensure butter is at room temperature for a smooth dough.
Let the caramel cool slightly before pouring over dough to prevent it from melting too quickly.
Test brioche doneness by tapping the bottom for a hollow sound.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for the dough to rise?

The first rise takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, and the final rise takes about 30 minutes.

What temperature should the caramel be cooked to?

Cook the sugar and water until it turns a golden brown, around 170°C (338°F).

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight.

How do I know when the brioches are done?

The brioches should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

What can I do if the caramel hardens too much?

Gently reheat the caramel over low heat to make it pourable again before using.

Serving Suggestions

These Caramel Upside-Down Brioches are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, where the caramel is still warm and gooey. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for the perfect morning or afternoon treat. To store, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. You can also freeze them for up to a month; just reheat in a warm oven before serving to recapture their fresh-baked glory.