I’ve made sourdough brioche a few times before, but after trying it with the tangzhong method, I don’t think I’ll go back. The difference in texture is honestly incredible, the dough felt softer, more elastic, and the final bread came out lighter and fluffier than any version I’ve made before.
If you’ve never heard of tangzhong, it’s a simple technique that comes from Japanese milk bread. You cook a small portion of flour and milk into a paste, which is then added to the dough. This pre-gelatinized starch helps the dough hold more moisture without making it sticky or hard to handle. It’s one of those little things that makes a big difference, especially in enriched breads like brioche where you want that pillowy texture but don’t want a soggy or overly wet dough.
For me, this version of sourdough brioche is the one. It smells like a bakery while it bakes, like real croissants, and the flavor is buttery, slightly sweet, and super versatile. I love it toasted with my homemade Nutella or you can just have it plain with butter. It’s one of those bakes that feels like a treat but is surprisingly simple once you get the hang of the process.
Why You’ll Love This Sourdough Brioche Recipe
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The texture is unreal. I’ve made brioche before, but this one is next level, so soft, light, and fluffy thanks to the tangzhong. You can literally pull it apart like a croissant.
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It smells like a real bakery. When it’s in the oven, the whole house smells like warm butter and fresh bread. The aroma alone makes it worth baking.
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It’s forgiving. The dough is rich, but it’s not sticky or hard to shape, especially after the cold ferment.
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It’s so versatile. Have it toasted with butter, as French toast, or with a swipe of my homemade Nutella. It’s one of those bakes that feels fancy but fits into regular mornings too.
Ingredients to Make Sourdough Brioche with Tangzhong
All purpose flour: Regular white flour gives the perfect texture and lightness.
Milk: Used both for the tangzhong and the dough. Whole milk adds richness.
Cane sugar: Just enough to give this brioche a gentle sweetness.
Sourdough starter: Active and bubbly, this is your only leavening agent.
Eggs: Add richness and help with structure.
Salt: Balances the flavor.
Butter: Softened, not melted; adds richness and flavor
Egg wash: For that shiny golden crust on top.
How to Make Sourdough Brioche with Tangzhong
Step 1: Prepare the Tangzhong
In a small saucepan, combine flour and milk. Whisk and cook over medium heat until it thickens into a smooth paste. Let it cool completely at room temperature.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a stand mixer bowl, combine flour, eggs, sugar, milk, sourdough starter, salt, and the cooled tangzhong. Mix until just combined, then let the dough rest (autolyse) for 30 minutes.
Step 3: Knead and Add Butter
Knead the dough for about 5 to 8 minutes. Then, add the softened butter gradually, kneading until fully incorporated. The dough should be smooth and elastic.
Step 4: Bulk Fermentation
Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl. Cover and proof at room temperature for 2 hours, then place it in the fridge overnight (8–16 hours) for a slow, cold fermentation.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
The next day, divide the cold dough into 4 equal pieces. Flatten each into a rectangle, fold the sides in, and roll up tightly. Place them seam-side down in a buttered loaf pan.
Step 6: Final Proof
Cover and let the shaped dough rise until doubled in size, this can take 5 to 6 hours depending on room temperature.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Brush the top with egg wash. You can also snip the top with scissors for a decorative effect. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until deep golden brown. Cool before slicing!
Tips for Making The Best Sourdough Brioche
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Use an active starter: Make sure your sourdough starter is bubbly and recently fed
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Don’t skip the rest after mixing: That initial 30 minute pause helps with gluten development
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Cold dough is easier to shape: The overnight fridge time makes the dough less sticky and easier to handle
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Be patient with the final proof: Let it rise until fully doubled
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Snipping the top is optional: But it gives a nice look and helps with oven spring
- If the top browns too fast, cover with parchment during the last 10–15 minutes of baking
FAQ
Can I skip the tangzhong?
The tangzhong makes a huge difference in moisture and texture. Use this sourdough brioche recipe without tangzhong.
What if I don’t have a stand mixer?
You can mix and knead by hand, but it’ll take more effort, especially when incorporating butter.
How do I store sourdough brioche?
Once completely cool, store in an airtight container at room temp for 2–3 days. It also freezes well, slice before freezing for easy toast.
If you give this recipe a try and enjoy it, I’d be so happy if you came back to leave a 5 star rating. And if you share it on Instagram, don’t forget to tag me @your_kitchen_lab
Soft & Fluffy Sourdough Brioche with Tangzhong
Soft, buttery sourdough brioche made extra tender with the tangzhong method.
Ingredients
Tangzhong:
- 25 g all purpose flour
- 100 g milk
Dough:
- 310 g all purpose flour
- 3 whole eggs
- 40 g cane sugar
- 25 g milk
- 80 g active sourdough starter
- 8 g salt
- 120 g softened butter
Egg Wash:
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tbsp milk
Instructions
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Make the tangzhong: whisk flour and milk in a saucepan. Cook on medium heat, stirring until thick. Let cool.
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In a stand mixer, combine flour, eggs, sugar, milk, starter, salt, and tangzhong. Mix until just combined. Rest 30 min.
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Knead dough for 5 to 8 minutes. Gradually add butter and knead until fully incorporated.
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Proof at room temperature for 2 hours. Then refrigerate overnight (8–16 hrs).
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Divide cold dough into 4 pieces. Flatten each into a rectangle, fold the sides in, and roll up tightly. Place in greased pan.
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Proof until doubled in size (5–6 hrs).
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Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Brush with egg wash. You can also snip the top with scissors for a decorative effect. Bake for 30–40 min until golden.
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Cool before slicing.
Recipe Notes
Don’t rush the proofing stages, brioche needs time.
You can freeze slices and reheat later.
Nutrition (Per Slice, Approximate)
Calories: 210 | Carbs: 22g | Fat: 11g | Protein: 5g