When the cool breeze of autumn starts to blow through my kitchen, I crave something cozy and indulgent. That’s when I whip up these Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls, a delightful recipe that marries the soft, buttery goodness of brioche with a touch of earthy sage and the natural sweetness of honey. Picture this: the golden-brown rolls emerge from the oven, warm and inviting, filling the air with an aroma that’s bound to gather everyone around the table.
Just imagining the moment when I tear into these fluffy rolls, revealing their tender crumb, makes my heart smile. Perfect for a brunch gathering or a cozy family dinner, they offer a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors that will elevate any meal. The addition of salted sage honey butter takes them to the next level, adding a creamy finish that’s simply irresistible. Let’s dive into making these divine rolls and transform any occasion into a special feast!
Why are Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls amazing?
Irresistible Warmth: These rolls emerge golden and fluffy, enveloping you in warmth with each bite.
Unique Flavor: The delightful fusion of sage and honey adds a surprising twist to the classic brioche.
Easy to Make: Perfect for any home baker, the straightforward steps ensure success no matter your skill level.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve them at brunch, and watch your friends and family rave about their new favorite treat.
Versatile Pairing: They complement a variety of dishes, from creamy soups to savory roasts, making them a go-to side.
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the dough in advance for hassle-free baking, whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a spontaneous get-together. Enjoy them fresh, or spread your own homemade salted sage honey butter for an extra touch of indulgence!
Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure and stability to the rolls; use bread flour for a chewier texture.
- Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps activate the yeast; brown sugar can be used for a richer flavor.
- Instant yeast – Leavens the dough for a light and fluffy texture; active dry yeast can be substituted but requires proofing.
- Salt – Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity; don’t skip to prevent excessive rising.
- Whole milk (warm) – Hydrates the dough and activates the yeast; dairy alternatives like almond or soy milk may work, but adjust liquid amounts.
- Unsalted butter (melted) – Adds richness and moisture; can be replaced with margarine for a dairy-free option.
- Large eggs – Contributes to the structure and richness; for egg substitution, use ¼ cup applesauce per egg.
- Vanilla extract – Adds a sweet aroma and enhances flavor; use almond extract for a different profile.
- Fresh sage (finely chopped) – Imparts an earthy, aromatic flavor; dried sage can be substituted but use less (1 tsp).
For the Salted Sage Honey Butter
- Unsalted butter (softened) – Acts as the creamy base for the butter blend; stick to unsalted for better control over saltiness.
- Honey – Sweetens the butter and enriches its flavor; maple syrup can be a vegan alternative.
- Fresh sage (finely chopped) – Provides aromatic flavor parallel to that in the rolls.
- Sea salt – Balances the sweetness of honey; adjust to taste.
How to Make Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt until well combined. This creates the perfect foundation for your rolls!
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, gently whisk the warm milk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and finely chopped sage until everything is blended and smooth, bringing in that fragrant warmth.
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Combine Mixtures: Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix, stirring as you go until a soft, shaggy dough forms. Don’t worry; it’ll come together beautifully!
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Knead: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes. You’re looking for a smooth and elastic texture that springs back when poked—this makes the rolls light and fluffy!
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First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours. It should double in size and look puffy and inviting!
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Punch Down: Once your dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any air bubbles—don’t be too rough! This step is crucial for achieving that perfect roll texture.
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Divide: Cut the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each into a ball. Place them snugly in a greased or lined baking dish, leaving a bit of space for them to rise again.
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Second Rise: Cover the shaped rolls and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until they’re nice and puffed up, creating that fluffy bite you’ll adore.
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Preheat Oven: As the rolls rise, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for that golden brown magic.
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Bake: Pop those beauties in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and the kitchen smells heavenly.
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Cool: Let the rolls cool slightly in the pan before gently removing them. This allows them to set while also keeping them warm and inviting.
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Make Butter: In a bowl, whip together softened unsalted butter, honey, finely chopped sage, and sea salt until perfectly blended. This creamy concoction is the cherry on top!
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Serve: Spread your dreamy salted sage honey butter over the warm rolls and watch everyone’s eyes light up with joy.
Optional: Drizzle with a little extra honey for an added touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls
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Warm Milk Matters: Ensure your milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly without killing it. This is crucial for fluffy rolls.
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Knead with Care: Knead the dough just until it feels smooth and elastic. Over-kneading can lead to tough rolls, so be gentle!
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Overnight Rise: For enhanced flavor and easier morning baking, refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise. Just bring it to room temp before shaping.
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Prepping Ahead: Freeze unbaked rolls after shaping them. When ready to bake, let them rise, add extra bake time, and enjoy freshly baked rolls any time!
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Perfecting Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey in your salted sage honey butter to match your taste. A little experimentation can lead to your favorite balance!
What to Serve with Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls?
These delightful rolls are the perfect centerpiece for a cozy meal, inviting you to create a memorable dining experience.
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Creamy Pumpkin Soup: The rich, velvety flavor of pumpkin soup balances beautifully with the subtle sweetness of the rolls. Perfect for a fall lunch!
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Savory Spinach Salad: A fresh spinach salad with toasted pecans gets a boost from the buttery goodness of the rolls, harmonizing textures and flavors alike.
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Roasted Chicken: The tender, juicy meat of roasted chicken pairs excellently with the rolls’ soft texture and sage nuances, creating a comforting meal.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: These rolls complement creamy, buttery garlic mashed potatoes; together, they create an indulgent feast that warms the soul.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Brighten your brunch with a refreshing fruit salad; the sweetness of the fruit enhances the richness of the rolls, creating a delightful contrast.
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Chai Tea or Coffee: Enjoy these rolls alongside a warm cup of chai tea or coffee; the comforting beverages bring an added layer of warmth to your table.
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Slow-Cooked Beef Stew: Hearty beef stew makes an excellent pairing, as the rolls are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce, uniting deep flavors in every bite.
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Chocolate Croissant Bread Pudding: For dessert, try this decadent bread pudding; the rolls add a lovely texture and elevate the dessert experience to new heights.
How to Store and Freeze Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls
Room Temperature: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them soft and fresh.
Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked rolls after shaping; they can be kept for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw and allow them to rise before baking.
Reheating: To reheat leftover rolls, wrap them in foil and pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Enjoy with more delicious salted sage honey butter!
Make Ahead Options
These Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply let it rise in the refrigerator to slow down the fermentation process, enhancing its flavor. Additionally, you can shape the rolls and freeze them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, just let them rise at room temperature for about 30-45 minutes before popping them in the oven. This method not only maintains their wonderful texture and taste but also ensures you can enjoy warm, fluffy rolls with ease when needed!
Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor these delightful rolls to your taste and dietary needs!
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Dairy-Free: Replace milk and butter with almond milk and dairy-free margarine for a vegan option. You’ll still enjoy the soft texture!
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fragrant twist that beautifully complements the honey. The aroma will delight your senses!
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Cheesy Bliss: Fold in shredded cheese like sharp cheddar or mozzarella for a savory kick. This adds a deliciously gooey surprise in every bite.
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Nutty Crunch: Toss in chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to enhance texture and add a delightful crunch. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible!
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Spicy Touch: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the butter for a hint of heat that elevates the savory aspect of the rolls.
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Sweetened Butter: Mix in flavored extracts like almond or maple syrup to the butter for a unique sweetness that complements the rich brioche.
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Fruit Addition: Incorporate dried fruits such as cranberries or figs into the dough for a burst of sweetness that pairs beautifully with sage.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these rolls accessible for gluten-sensitive friends while keeping that classic brioche taste!
Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting sage?
Choosing fresh sage is key! Look for vibrant green leaves without any dark spots or wilting. The leaves should feel firm and fragrant. If you can only find dried sage, use about 1 teaspoon as it has a stronger flavor concentrated in its dried form.
How should I store leftover Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls?
Leftover rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before enjoying them, as this helps maintain that lovely texture.
Can I freeze Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls? How?
Absolutely! To freeze unbaked rolls, shape them as directed and place them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the rolls to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw the rolls in the refrigerator overnight, then let them rise for about 30-45 minutes at room temperature before baking. This method keeps them fresh and fluffy!
I found my dough isn’t rising well. What should I do?
Don’t worry! If your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to the yeast being inactive. Make sure your milk was warm (not hot!) when mixed, as excessive heat can kill yeast. For a quick fix, try placing your dough in a warmer spot, like an oven turned off with the light on, and give it more time. If all else fails, it’s best to start with fresh yeast.
Is this recipe suitable for those with egg allergies?
Yes! You can substitute the large eggs in this recipe with ¼ cup of applesauce for each egg, making it a great alternative for those with egg allergies. The applesauce maintains moisture and keeps the texture delightful, just like the original recipe.
Devour These Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls Today
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, gently whisk the warm milk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and finely chopped sage until blended and smooth.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix, stirring until a soft, shaggy dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours.
- Once risen, gently punch the dough down to release air bubbles.
- Cut the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each into a ball, placing them in a greased or lined baking dish.
- Cover the shaped rolls and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown.
- Let the rolls cool slightly in the pan before removing.
- In a bowl, whip together softened unsalted butter, honey, finely chopped sage, and sea salt until blended.
- Spread the honey butter over warm rolls.