Ingredients:

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed (about 110°F or 43°C)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)
  • 1 large egg (for egg wash)
  • 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add the softened butter and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
  4. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the yeast mixture and egg mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until a rough dough forms.
  5. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
  6. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, around 1 to 1.5 hours.
  7. After the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into three equal pieces.
  8. Roll each piece into a long rope, approximately 12 inches long. Flatten each rope slightly and sprinkle chocolate chips in the center, then fold it over to encase the chocolate.
  9. Pinch the ends together and braid the three ropes together. Pinch the ends again to seal the braid and tuck them under to create a neat shape.
  10. Place the braided dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a greased loaf pan. Cover and allow it to rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
  11. During the last 15 minutes of rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  12. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Brush this mixture over the risen dough to give it a golden finish.
  13. Bake the brioche in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and fully baked.
  14. Remove the brioche from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.