Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls Recipe

If you are craving something that’s tender, slightly sweet, and bursting with rich flavor, these Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls Recipe are an absolute must-try. Imagine fluffy, buttery rolls infused with the fragrant earthiness of fresh sage and a perfect touch of honey, then finished with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Whether you’re serving these warm for a festive meal or enjoying them as a comforting snack, these brioche rolls bring a soulful, homemade charm that’s utterly irresistible. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll quickly become your go-to for any occasion that calls for a soft, sweet bread with an herby, buttery twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls Recipe relies on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the soft, fluffy dough to the glossy, golden finish, every item matters.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation for the dough, giving the rolls their soft but sturdy structure.
• Active dry yeast: Essential for that beautiful rise and airy crumb inside each roll.
• Warm milk: Adds richness and moisture to keep the dough soft and tender.
• Warm water: Activates the yeast and helps the dough come together smoothly.
• Honey: Gives just the right sweetness and contributes to the tender crumb and golden crust.
• Eggs: Provide richness, color, and a slightly chewy texture you’ll love.
• Unsalted butter (softened): Makes the rolls decadently tender and flavorful from within.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Unsalted butter (melted for brushing): Adds a shiny, buttery glaze that locks in moisture.
• Fresh sage (finely chopped): The aromatic star herb that gives these rolls a fresh, earthy lift.
• Flaky sea salt: The finishing touch that adds texture and a burst of salty contrast.

How to Make Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the yeast

Start by dissolving your active dry yeast in warm water, then let it rest for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step is crucial as it signals that your yeast is alive and ready to give your rolls the perfect rise.

Step 2: Combine wet ingredients and salt

In a large bowl, mix warm milk, honey, eggs, softened butter, and salt together. This mixture forms the flavorful base of your dough, setting the stage for a tender and sweet brioche.

Step 3: Mix dough and add yeast

Pour your bubbly yeast mixture into the wet ingredients and give it a good stir. Gradually add your flour, mixing until the dough comes together into a soft, slightly sticky ball. This gentle process ensures the dough remains tender while still developing structure.

Step 4: Knead until smooth

Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This kneading activates the gluten, which is key for those soft, fluffy rolls you crave.

Step 5: First rise

Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and set it somewhere warm to rise for 1 1/2 to 2 hours. Wait until it doubles in size—this is how you know it’s ready for shaping and baking.

Step 6: Shape the rolls

After punching down the dough, divide it into 12 equal pieces and shape each one into a smooth, round roll. Place them neatly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spacing them just right for another rise.

Step 7: Second rise

Cover the shaped rolls with a towel and let them rise again for about 45 minutes until they become soft and puffy. This second rise is what gives your brioche those gorgeously soft layers inside.

Step 8: Bake to golden perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F, then bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye out for that golden brown color that signals they’re ready to come out and be enjoyed.

Step 9: Brush with sage honey butter and finish

Right after baking, brush the warm rolls generously with a luscious mixture of melted butter, honey, and fresh chopped sage. Sprinkle lightly with flaky sea salt for that delightful salty crunch paired with sweet, herbal goodness.

How to Serve Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

These rolls are beautifully accented with flaky sea salt on top, which you can enhance with a few extra sage leaves or a light drizzle of honey just before serving. These little touches elevate not only the flavor but also the visual appeal at your table.

Side Dishes

Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls Recipe pairs wonderfully with savory mains like roast chicken, honey-glazed ham, or a hearty vegetable stew. Their subtle sweetness and herbaceous hint provide the perfect complement to rich, comforting dishes.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy brunch, serve these rolls sliced and topped with cream cheese and smoked salmon or alongside a warm bowl of soup for a comforting meal. You can also use them as slider buns filled with your favorite savory or sweet spreads for an elevated twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and fresh, perfect for quick snacking or a second helping.

Freezing

You can freeze these rolls by wrapping each individually or storing them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to two months. When you want to enjoy them, thaw them overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Reheat the rolls by warming them briefly in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes, which restores their soft texture and brings back that warm, freshly baked aroma. A quick zap in the microwave works wonderfully too if you’re in a hurry.

FAQs

Can I use dried sage instead of fresh sage?

Yes, dried sage can be used in a pinch, but fresh sage is preferred for its brighter, more vibrant flavor. If you use dried, reduce the amount to about one teaspoon as it’s more concentrated.

Is it possible to make these rolls without eggs?

Eggs contribute to the richness and structure of brioche rolls, so omitting them will change the texture. For an egg-free version, you might experiment with substitutions like flax eggs, but the classic brioche softness might be affected.

Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?

You can swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness and moisture, though the flavor won’t be exactly the same. Avoid using granulated sugar as it won’t provide the same tenderizing effect.

How long will these rolls keep their freshness?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these brioche rolls stay fresh for about two days. Beyond that, they might start to dry out but can still be revived by reheating.

Can I add other herbs besides sage?

Absolutely! Rosemary or thyme make excellent alternatives or additions, offering their own lovely aromas. Feel free to customize the herb profile to suit your taste and occasion.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about homemade bread, especially when it’s as soft, buttery, and full of fragrant herb and honey goodness as this Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls Recipe. It’s a little slice of comfort and celebration rolled into one, perfect for sharing with family and friends. I hope this recipe inspires you to fill your kitchen with warmth and delectable scents, and of course, to enjoy every tender, flavorful bite!

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