Brioche Easter Cake with Hazelnuts Recipe

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup milk
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 6 eggs
• 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
• 1 egg beaten with 1 tbsp water for egg wash

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, heat milk until warm to the touch (about 105-110°F). Remove from heat and sprinkle yeast over the surface. Let sit for 5 minutes until yeast is frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add eggs and yeast mixture, and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Add softened butter to the dough, kneading until fully incorporated. The dough will be sticky and greasy, but continue kneading until it comes together and becomes smooth and shiny.
5. Add chopped hazelnuts to the dough, and knead until evenly distributed. Transfer dough to a large, lightly oiled bowl, and cover with plastic wrap. Let rise for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
6. Punch dough down, and divide into 3 portions. Roll each portion into a 20-inch rope. Braid the ropes together and transfer to a greased 9-inch cake pan.
7. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for an additional 30-40 minutes.
8. Preheat oven to 350°F. Brush egg wash over the top of the cake, and bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool before slicing and serving.

Verdict & Serving Suggestions

This Brioche Easter Cake with Hazelnuts is a deliciously sweet and nutty treat perfect for celebrating the spring season! With its soft, fluffy texture and rich hazelnut flavor, it’s sure to be a crowd pleaser. Serve it alongside your favorite brunch dishes or enjoy it as a dessert with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of powdered sugar.