𝐁𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐜𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐎𝐥𝐝-𝐅𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐝

A Brioche Cake with Old-Fashioned flavors is a cozy, delightful dessert that blends the soft, buttery richness of brioche with the warmth and comfort of old-fashioned flavors. Think cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and a touch of caramel or brown sugar for that nostalgic taste. Here’s a recipe to bring this comforting treat to life!

Brioche Cake with Old-Fashioned Flavors

Ingredients:

For the Brioche Cake:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (or 1 packet)
• 1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth)
• 1 tbsp honey (optional, for added sweetness)

For the Old-Fashioned Glaze:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)

For Garnish (optional):

• Powdered sugar (for dusting)
• Fresh fruit (such as berries) or candied pecans (for decoration)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Brioche Dough:
   • In a small bowl, warm the milk to about 110°F (43°C) and sprinkle the yeast over it. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast becomes frothy.
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
   • Add the yeast mixture, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until combined.
   • Gradually add the softened butter, a tablespoon at a time, mixing after each addition. The dough will be sticky at first but will become smooth and soft as the butter is incorporated.
   • Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes by hand or using a stand mixer with a dough hook. The dough should be elastic and slightly tacky but not overly sticky.
   • Once the dough is smooth, cover the bowl with a clean cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Old-Fashioned Glaze:
   • In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture begins to boil.
   • Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened, then remove from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Set aside to cool.
3. Shape and Bake the Brioche Cake:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan (or a bundt pan if you prefer a more intricate shape).
   • Punch down the dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a circle that fits your cake pan (approximately 9 inches).
   • Place the dough into the prepared cake pan and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until puffy and risen.
   • Once risen, bake the brioche cake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Glaze the Cake:
   • Once the brioche cake has baked and cooled slightly (about 10 minutes), drizzle the warm old-fashioned glaze over the top. The glaze will soak into the soft brioche, adding flavor and moisture.
5. Serve:
   • Let the cake cool for another 10-15 minutes before slicing. You can dust with powdered sugar for a finishing touch, or serve with fresh fruit like berries or candied pecans for extra flavor and decoration.

Tips:

• Make-Ahead: The dough can be made the night before. After the first rise, punch it down, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature before proceeding with shaping and baking the cake.
• Extra Flavor: Add a bit of freshly grated nutmeg to the glaze for a more old-fashioned flavor, or stir in some chopped candied ginger into the brioche dough for a unique twist.
• Freezing: Brioche cake freezes well! Wrap slices in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just warm it up in the oven before serving for that fresh-baked taste.

This Brioche Cake with Old-Fashioned Flavors is a perfect treat for afternoon tea or a cozy family gathering. Its buttery richness and warm, comforting glaze evoke nostalgia, making it an instant classic!