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Brioche Braid with Ricotta and Chocolate Chips

17/11/2023

The brioche braid with ricotta and chocolate chips is a soft and indulgent sweet bread, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

  • 500 g Manitoba flour
  • 200 g fresh ricotta
  • 100 g sugar
  • 100 g softened butter
  • 130 ml lukewarm milk
  • 1 sachet dry instant yeast (about 7 g) or 15 g fresh yeast
  • 2 medium eggs
  • 1 pinch of salt
  • 100 g chocolate chips
  • Grated zest of 1 orange or lemon (optional)
  • 1 egg yolk and milk for brushing
  • Powdered sugar for decorating (optional)

Preparation

  1. In a bowl, dissolve the yeast in the lukewarm milk with a teaspoon of sugar and let it rest for a few minutes until it starts to foam.
  2. In another large bowl, mix the flour with the sugar and, if using, the grated orange or lemon zest.
  3. Add the eggs and the yeast-milk mixture to the flour mixture and begin kneading. Add the softened butter in pieces and the pinch of salt. Work the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  4. Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm place away from drafts for about 2 hours, or until it doubles in volume.
  5. Next, take the dough, gently deflate it, and add the fresh ricotta and chocolate chips. Mix everything together well.
  6. Divide the dough into three equal parts and shape into three long strands. Braid them together to form a braid and seal the ends well.
  7. Place the braid on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
  8. Preheat the oven to 180 °C.
  9. Brush the surface of the brioche with a mixture of egg yolk and a little milk to achieve a nice golden color during baking.
  10. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until golden. Baking times may vary depending on the oven, so keep an eye on the braid while it bakes.
  11. Remove the braid from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before serving.
  12. If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch.

Fun Facts

Pan brioche is a versatile enriched dough of French origin. The ricotta adds a delicate flavor and makes the texture even softer, while chocolate chips are a classic indulgent pairing. This braid makes a great idea for brunch or for celebrating special occasions with a touch of elegance.