Name: Raspberry Swirl Brioche Loaf
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 145 min
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 cup whole milk (warm); 4 eggs (large); 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup raspberry preserves; 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional); 2 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening); 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1-2 tsp milk; 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

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Nothing elevates a breakfast table like a freshly baked, buttery, and fluffy brioche loaf. When paired with a vibrant raspberry swirl, this Raspberry Swirl Brioche Loaf becomes an irresistible treat for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. Soft, slightly sweet, and enriched with a decadent raspberry filling, this loaf is perfect for family gatherings, weekend indulgence, or gift-worthy homemade bread. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to create this mouthwatering loaf from scratch, plus tips, variations, and serving ideas.

Ingredients

For the Brioche Dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup granulated sugar
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 tsp salt
1/2 cup whole milk, warm
4 large eggs
1 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Raspberry Swirl:

1 cup raspberry preserves or jam
1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, enhances tartness)
2 tsp cornstarch (optional, to thicken the filling)

For the Glaze (Optional):

1/2 cup powdered sugar
1–2 tsp milk
1/4 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

In a small bowl, combine warm milk, 1 tsp sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, whisk together flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
Add eggs and yeast mixture to the flour mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
Gradually add softened butter, one tablespoon at a time, kneading thoroughly until smooth, glossy, and elastic (about 10–12 minutes by hand or 6–8 minutes in a stand mixer).

2. First Rise
5. Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm area for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.

3. Prepare Raspberry Filling
6. While dough rises, mix raspberry preserves with lemon juice and cornstarch (if using) in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until slightly thickened, then let cool.

4. Shape and Fill the Loaf
7. Once dough has doubled, punch it down gently and turn it onto a lightly floured surface.
8. Roll dough into a rectangle, approximately 12 x 16 inches.
9. Spread the raspberry filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border at the edges.
10. Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log. Pinch edges to seal.
11. Place the loaf into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan, seam side down.

5. Second Rise
12. Cover the loaf lightly with a towel and allow to rise for 45–60 minutes, until puffy.

6. Bake the Loaf
13. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
14. Brush the loaf with a lightly beaten egg for a golden, shiny finish.
15. Bake 35–40 minutes, until the loaf is deep golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. If the top browns too quickly, tent with aluminum foil.

7. Cool and Glaze
16. Remove the loaf from the pan and cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes.
17. Optional: Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for a drizzle glaze and brush lightly over the cooled loaf.

8. Slice and Serve
18. Use a serrated knife to slice into thick portions. Serve for breakfast with butter, cream cheese, or fresh fruit, or enjoy as a dessert with tea or coffee.

Tips for the Perfect Raspberry Swirl Brioche Loaf

Temperature matters: Ensure your butter is softened and milk is warm (not hot) to activate the yeast without killing it.
Don’t rush the rise: Brioche benefits from slow, patient proofing for a tender, fluffy crumb.
Use a serrated knife: To avoid squishing the loaf and swirls, slice gently with a serrated bread knife.
Storage: Wrap tightly in plastic or foil; keeps 2–3 days at room temperature. Refrigerate for up to a week.

Variations

Chocolate Raspberry Swirl: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the dough and swirl in raspberry preserves.
Nutty Twist: Sprinkle finely chopped almonds or pistachios over the raspberry layer before rolling.
Cinnamon Swirl: Mix cinnamon sugar with the raspberry preserves for a warm, spiced loaf.

Serving Suggestions

Breakfast: Serve slightly warm with butter or cream cheese.
Brunch: Pair with scrambled eggs, fresh berries, and coffee.
Dessert: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a decadent treat.

Fun Facts & Cultural Context

Brioche is a classic French bread, known for its rich, buttery texture. Traditionally enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack, the sweet dough is versatile and perfect for creative swirls, jams, or chocolate. The addition of raspberry adds a tart contrast to the tender richness of the brioche, making it a favorite for special occasions and brunch tables worldwide.