Extra Fluffy Raisins and Cranberries Swirled Brioche

 

Extra Fluffy Raisins and Cranberries Swirled Brioche 

Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• ½ cup (120ml) warm milk (110°F/43°C)
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened and cubed

For the filling:

• ½ cup (75g) raisins
• ½ cup (75g) dried cranberries
• ⅓ cup (80ml) orange juice (for soaking the dried fruits)
• ¼ cup (50g) brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the egg wash:

• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tbsp milk

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the dried fruit:

   • Soak the raisins and cranberries in orange juice for about 30 minutes to plump them up. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the dough:

   • In a bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
   • In a stand mixer with a dough hook (or by hand), combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
   • Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and yeast mixture. Mix until combined.
   • Gradually add the softened butter, one piece at a time, and knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
   • Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 ½ to 2 hours or until doubled in size.

3. Prepare the filling:

   • Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.

4. Assemble the brioche:

   • Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle (about 16x10 inches).
   • Brush melted butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
   • Evenly distribute the soaked raisins and cranberries over the surface.
   • Roll the dough tightly into a log, then twist it into a swirl or braid it if desired.

5. Second rise:

   • Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   • Cover and let it rise for another 45 minutes to an hour.

6. Bake the brioche:

   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Brush the dough with the egg wash (egg yolk mixed with milk).
   • Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Cool and serve:

   • Let it cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy warm with butter or jam!

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Would you like any variations, like adding nuts or using a different filling?