How to Make Buttered Brioche Bun (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Buttered Brioche Bun is a soft, pillowy bread with a hint of sweetness, brought to India through the influence of French baking but now enjoyed at Indian bakeries and cafes. In India, these buns are often freshly baked in local bakeries or home kitchens, then lightly buttered and served as a comforting snack or lunch option. The use of local ingredients like 'atta' (whole wheat flour) and 'makhan' (butter) gives it a unique Indian touch, making it both tasty and nutritious. This healthy Buttered Brioche Bun recipe is lighter than the traditional version, using a mix of whole wheat flour and minimal butter to keep it soft yet wholesome. It's perfect for festive occasions like Christmas, or as a special treat during tea time (chai nashta) with family. The slightly sweet, buttery flavor pairs beautifully with chutneys or as a base for vada pav and other Indian street food. Whether you’re celebrating a festival, packing lunch for school, or simply enjoying an afternoon snack, this brioche bun brings a delightful mix of cultures to your table.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · In a small bowl
In a small bowl, dissolve sugar in lukewarm milk and sprinkle yeast on top. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
Step 2 · In a large mixing bowl
In a large mixing bowl, combine atta, maida, salt, and milk powder (if using). Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture.
Step 3 · Add softened butter and knead into a soft
Add softened butter and knead into a soft, sticky dough. Use a little olive oil on your hands for easier kneading.
Step 4 · Cover dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place until...
Cover dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place until doubled (about 1 hour).
Step 5 · Punch down the dough
Punch down the dough, divide into two equal balls, and shape into smooth buns. Place on a greased baking tray.
Step 6 · Brush buns with a little milk and sprinkle sesame seeds on top
Brush buns with a little milk and sprinkle sesame seeds on top. Cover and let rise for another 20 minutes.
Step 7 · Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 18-20 minutes until g...
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 18-20 minutes until golden brown. Remove and immediately brush with melted butter.
Step 8 · Let the buns cool slightly before serving
Let the buns cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with more butter or your favorite Indian chutney.
Why this recipe is healthy
By incorporating whole wheat flour (atta) and minimizing the use of butter and sugar, this recipe becomes a heart-healthy and lower-calorie alternative to traditional brioche. Whole grains help manage blood sugar and offer sustained energy, making this bun suitable for weight-conscious individuals and families seeking wholesome homemade snacks. It’s also free from preservatives and artificial additives common in store-bought buns.
A note on tradition
While the Buttered Brioche Bun has roots in French baking, Indian bakeries and homes have adapted it for local palates. In Mumbai and Pune, similar buns are used for vada pav or served with chai during monsoon. During winter festivals like Christmas or New Year, these buns are often made as a special treat, filled with butter or homemade fruit preserves. Its soft texture and mild sweetness make it a favorite for both children and adults across urban India.