Brioche Burger Buns

If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate soft, buttery, and slightly sweet burger buns, these Brioche Burger Buns will become your new favorite. With their tender crumb and golden crust, they elevate any burger night to gourmet status. The recipe uses simple pantry staples like all-purpose flour, sugar, eggs, and butter, coming together to create that signature rich brioche texture. Whether you’re grilling up classic beef patties, stacking juicy turkey burgers, or even indulging in a vegetarian delight, these buns are the perfect foundation.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

• Soft and fluffy texture: These buns have the perfect pillowy softness that holds up well against juicy burger patties without falling apart.
• Rich buttery flavor: Thanks to the generous addition of butter and eggs, the buns have a slightly sweet, rich taste that complements savory fillings.
• Beautiful golden crust: The egg wash gives these buns a shiny, golden-brown finish that looks as good as they taste.
• Versatile: While ideal for burgers, these buns also work wonderfully for sandwiches or even breakfast treats with jam or honey.
• Homemade magic: Nothing beats the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen.

What We’re Using

• 4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for our dough; provides structure and chew.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the butter and eggs.
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast: The leavening agent that gives our buns their airy rise.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity.
• 1/2 cup whole milk, warm: Hydrates the dough and feeds the yeast for a perfect rise.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and moisture to the buns.
• 4 large eggs: Contribute to the tender crumb and golden color.
• 1 tablespoon milk (for brushing): Gives the buns a glossy finish before baking.
• Sesame seeds (optional): For that classic burger bun look and a subtle nutty crunch.

Setup & Equipment

• Large mixing bowl: For combining and proofing the dough.
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional): Makes kneading easier but you can also knead by hand.
• Baking sheet: To bake the buns evenly.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: Prevents buns from sticking and helps with cleanup.
• Kitchen towel or plastic wrap: To cover the dough while it rises.
• Pastry brush: For applying the milk wash.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient portions.

Brioche Burger Buns — Do This Next

Step 1: Activate the yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm whole milk with 1 tablespoon of the sugar and the active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes foamy. This indicates the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Mix the dough

In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of your stand mixer, whisk together the all-purpose flour, remaining sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with the melted butter. Pour the yeast mixture and egg-butter mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until the dough starts to come together.

Step 3: Knead the dough

If using a stand mixer, attach the dough hook and knead on medium speed for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If kneading by hand, turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 10-12 minutes. The dough will be slightly sticky but should pull away from the sides of the bowl.

Step 4: First rise

Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover tightly with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the buns

Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release excess air. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces (about 100 grams each). Shape each piece into a smooth ball by tucking the edges underneath. Place the dough balls evenly spaced on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Second rise

Cover the shaped buns with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy and nearly doubled.

Step 7: Prepare for baking

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the buns lightly with 1 tablespoon of milk. If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds over the tops for that classic burger bun look.

Step 8: Bake

Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.

Seasonal Serving Ideas

• Summer: Serve these brioche buns with grilled beef patties, fresh lettuce, tomato slices, and a tangy homemade barbecue sauce.
• Fall: Pair the buns with spiced turkey burgers topped with cranberry sauce and melted cheddar for cozy flavors.
• Winter: Use for hearty lamb sliders with caramelized onions and garlic aioli, perfect for a comforting meal.
• Spring: Make light veggie burgers with grilled asparagus, goat cheese, and arugula for a fresh, seasonal bite.

What I Learned Testing

• The dough’s stickiness: Brioche dough is naturally a little sticky due to the butter and eggs, but resist adding too much extra flour to keep the buns tender.
• Proofing times: Allowing the dough to rise fully both times is key to achieving that soft, airy texture.
• Temperature matters: Warm milk activates the yeast best; too hot will kill it, too cold won’t activate it properly.
• Egg wash magic: Brushing with milk alone gives a nice shine, but an egg wash can create an even glossier, richer finish if you want to switch it up.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

These buns keep beautifully at room temperature for 2 days when stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze the buns individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently in the oven or toaster for that fresh-baked feel.

This recipe scales well if you want to prep buns ahead of time for a backyard barbecue or weeknight dinner. You can also bake the buns and freeze them, then pull out only what you need to keep things fresh and easy.

Ask the Chef

Can I substitute milk with a dairy-free alternative?

Yes! You can use unsweetened almond milk or oat milk warmed to the same temperature. This will still activate the yeast and keep the dough moist, though the flavor will be slightly different but delicious in its own way.

What if I don’t have active dry yeast?

You can use instant yeast instead, but use slightly less (about 2 teaspoons). Instant yeast can be mixed directly into the dry ingredients without proofing first.

How can I make smaller slider buns?

Simply divide the dough into more pieces, about 12-16 depending on your desired slider size. Keep the baking time closer to 12-15 minutes and watch closely to avoid overbaking.

Can I add flavors like herbs or garlic to the dough?

Absolutely! Adding finely chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme, or even roasted garlic, can add a flavorful twist to your brioche buns. Just fold them in during the mixing stage to evenly distribute.

Cook This Next

• Turkey Sliders – Perfectly paired with these soft buns for a lighter burger option.
• Copycat Steak And Shake Burger – An indulgent burger recipe that deserves the best bun.
• Buttermilk Biscuits – Another fantastic homemade bread option for your sandwich cravings.

Serve & Enjoy

Serve your freshly baked Brioche Burger Buns warm with your favorite grilled patties and toppings. The rich, tender crumb paired with a juicy burger and crisp veggies creates a taste experience that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re hosting a weekend barbecue or a casual dinner at home, these buns will impress every guest. Don’t forget to toast them lightly for an extra layer of flavor and texture. Enjoy every bite of your homemade burger masterpiece!

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