Go Back
Braided chocolate chip brioche loaf on a wooden board.

Braided Chocolate Chip Brioche Recipe

Meriam
This braided chocolate chip brioche is a rich, buttery, and slightly sweet bread with a soft, fluffy texture. The chocolate chips melt into the dough, creating a delicious balance of sweet and buttery flavors. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a special treat!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Bread
Cuisine French
Servings 1 large loaf (or 2 small loaves)
Calories 260 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Brioche Dough:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 tsp 1 packet instant yeast
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup warm milk 110°F/45°C
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened

For the Filling:

  • 3/4 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
  • 1 tbsp flour to prevent chocolate chips from sinking
  • For the Egg Wash:
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 tbsp milk

Instructions
 

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  • In a bowl, mix warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

  • In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
  • Add yeast mixture, eggs, and vanilla extract.
  • Mix until a sticky dough forms.
  • Knead in butter, one tablespoon at a time, until fully incorporated.
  • Continue kneading for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

  • Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1.5 hours (or until doubled in size).

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips & Shape the Braid

  • Toss chocolate chips with 1 tbsp flour, then gently fold them into the dough.
  • Divide dough into 3 equal pieces and roll into long ropes.
  • Braid the ropes together and tuck the ends under.
  • Place on a lined baking sheet and let rise for 30 minutes.

Step 5: Egg Wash & Bake

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Brush the braided dough with egg wash.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.

Step 6: Cool & Serve

  • Let cool for 10 minutes, then slice and enjoy!

Notes

Want extra sweetness? Add a dusting of powdered sugar.
For extra richness, use dark chocolate chunks instead of chips.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 1 month.
Keyword chocolate chip brioche, braided brioche bread, homemade brioche, sweet bread recipe, best brioche recipe.