French Cupcakes (Brioche) Recipe

If you’re dreaming of a treat that’s soft, buttery, and utterly delightful, look no further than French cupcakes, or as they’re traditionally known, brioche. These little wonders are a delightful twist on the classic brioche bread, and they come with a rich, tender crumb that melts in your mouth. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a delightful afternoon snack, this French Cupcakes (Brioche) Recipe will transport you straight to a charming Parisian café. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a bakery-quality treat right in your own kitchen.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This recipe has everything you could want in a sweet treat. Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore these French cupcakes:

• Decadent Flavor: The rich buttery flavor is simply irresistible.
• Soft Texture: Each bite is light and fluffy, making them perfect for any occasion.
• Versatile: Enjoy them plain, with jam, or topped with your favorite frosting.
• Easy to Make: With a little patience, you’ll have delicious cupcakes that impress.
• Homemade Goodness: There’s nothing like the smell of freshly baked brioche filling your kitchen.

What Goes In

Gather these ingredients to make your own French cupcakes:

• 350g all-purpose flour
• 10g fresh yeast
• 4 large eggs
• 50ml milk
• 20g sugar
• 200g soft butter

Each component plays a crucial role in creating that perfect texture and flavor you desire in your French cupcakes.

Tools of the Trade

Before you dive into baking, make sure you have these essential tools on hand:

• Mixing Bowls: For combining your ingredients.
• Whisk: To beat your eggs and mix the batter smoothly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key in baking.
• Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: To properly cream the butter and incorporate air into the mix.
• Cupcake Pan: For shaping your brioche cupcakes.
• Parchment Paper or Cupcake Liners: To prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.

French Cupcakes (Brioche) Recipe: How It’s Done

Let’s get started on this delightful French Cupcakes (Brioche) Recipe with some easy-to-follow steps.

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast

Begin by activating your yeast. In a small bowl, combine the fresh yeast with the milk and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and sugar. Mix them together until well combined. This will ensure that the sugar is evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until they are light and frothy. Once your yeast mixture is frothy, pour it into the eggs and mix well.

Step 4: Create the Dough

Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients while mixing with a whisk or a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. Mix until a rough dough starts to form.

Step 5: Add the Butter

With the dough still mixing, slowly incorporate the soft butter. This is where the magic happens! Continue mixing until the dough is smooth and elastic. You may need to knead it by hand for about 5-10 minutes if you’re not using a stand mixer.

Step 6: First Rise

Place your dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size. This usually takes about 1 to 2 hours.

Step 7: Shape the Cupcakes

Once your dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into equal portions and shape them into balls. Place each ball into the cupcake pan lined with parchment paper or cupcake liners.

Step 8: Second Rise

Cover the shaped dough once again with the kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes. This will help achieve that fluffy texture.

Step 9: Preheat the Oven

While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures that the cupcakes will bake evenly once they are placed inside.

Step 10: Bake

After the second rise, bake your French cupcakes in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Step 11: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!

No-Store Runs Needed

One of the best parts of this French Cupcakes (Brioche) Recipe is that you likely have most, if not all, of the ingredients already in your pantry. Check out this list for a quick inventory:

• Flour
• Fresh yeast (or dry yeast as a substitute)
• Eggs
• Milk
• Sugar
• Butter

With these standard baking staples, you’re ready to whip up something extraordinary without making an extra trip to the store!

Things That Go Wrong

Even the best bakers can face a few hiccups in the kitchen. Here are some common issues and how to avoid them:

• Dough Not Rising: Check that your yeast is fresh. If the yeast isn’t activated, your dough won’t rise.
• Overmixing: Mixing too much can lead to dense cupcakes. Mix just until combined.
• Burnt Cupcakes: Keep an eye on your cupcakes while they bake. Every oven is different, and baking times may vary.
• Dry Texture: Ensure you measure your flour correctly. Too much flour can lead to a dry end product.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

If you find yourself with leftover French cupcakes, you’re in for a treat! Here’s how to store them:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed bag for up to a month.
• To revive frozen cupcakes, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them slightly in the oven.

These cupcakes are perfect for meal prep too! You can make them ahead of time for breakfast, snacks, or dessert throughout the week.

Popular Questions

Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?

Yes, you can substitute dry yeast for fresh yeast. Use about one-third of the amount (approximately 3g) and activate it in warm milk before adding it to your mixture.

What can I add to the batter for extra flavor?

You can add vanilla extract, orange zest, or even chocolate chips to the batter for a personalized twist.

How do I know when the cupcakes are done baking?

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, and the tops should be golden brown.

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Our Most-Loved Recipes

If you enjoyed this French Cupcakes (Brioche) Recipe, you might also love these delightful creations:

• Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Lemon Blueberry Muffins
• Decadent Red Velvet Cake
• Creamy Almond Joy Cheesecake

Let’s Eat

Now that you have your French cupcakes (brioche) ready, it’s time to indulge in their buttery goodness. Pair them with your favorite beverage or enjoy them simply on their own. Whether you’re sharing them with friends and family or savoring them solo, these cupcakes are sure to bring joy to your day. So roll up your sleeves and get baking! You’ll be glad you did.