A soft and golden Vegan Brioche Bun Recipe offers a delightful experience without animal products. Crafted with plant-based ingredients, its rich, buttery texture and slightly sweet flavor make it an ideal choice for various dishes. This bun is a companion to savory burgers and sweet spreads, proving that indulgence can be delicious and compassionate.
WHY IT WORKS?
- Incorporates unrefined sugar, ensuring a subtle sweetness that complements its golden crust.
- Adding a flaxseed meal as an egg substitute enriches the dough, providing a tender crumb.
- Perfecting the art of slow fermentation allows for a depth of flavor uncommon in vegan baked goods.
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Craving the buttery, tender embrace of a brioche bun but committed to a vegan lifestyle can seem like a culinary crossroads. The thought of never savoring that distinct, rich flavor again shadowed my dining experiences until I embarked on a journey to craft the perfect Vegan Brioche Bun Recipe.
This quest wasn’t just about substituting ingredients but about recreating the soul-satisfying joy that a great brioche bun brings to a meal.
This recipe is a beacon of hope for those who’ve felt the pang of exclusion in a world adorned with dairy and eggs. It proves that with some creativity and the right blend of plant-based components, you can still relish the luxurious texture and taste of a guilt-free classic brioche with all the joy.
What Is Vegan Brioche Bun?
Vegan brioche buns are a plant-based version of the classic French bread, known for its rich, tender texture and slightly sweet flavor.
Unlike traditional brioche, which relies heavily on eggs and butter for its distinctive taste and soft crumb, vegan brioche substitutes these animal products with plant-based milk, vegan butter, and egg alternatives such as flaxseed or aquafaba.
This allows vegans and those with dairy or egg allergies to enjoy a similarly indulgent, fluffy bun. Vegan brioche buns are perfect for sandwiches, burgers, or even enjoying themselves, warmed with a spread of vegan butter.
Fact– Originally from France, Brioche is celebrated for its high egg and butter content, giving it a rich, tender texture. Vegan versions maintain this luxury using plant-based alternatives.
Recipe Directions
To Make The Brioche Dough
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except the liquid sweetener. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Knead the dough for at least 5 minutes until it becomes soft and elastic. Using a stand mixer, use the dough hook attachment and knead until smooth, pulling away from the bowl sides.
- Adjust the dough consistency as necessary: if it is too dry, add a bit more milk; if it is too sticky, add a little flour. Aim for a soft dough for softer buns.
Resting The Dough
- Keep the dough in the bowl, covering it with a damp tea towel to prevent drying. Place it in a warm area to double size for at least 1 hour. For a slow rise, you can let it rest in the fridge overnight, ensuring it returns to room temperature before proceeding.
Forming The Buns
- Once the dough has doubled, divide it into 8 equal parts (about 90g each). Shape each piece into a smooth ball and place them on a lined baking tray about 5 cm (2 inches) apart.
- Cover the tray with a damp tea towel and let the dough rest in a warm area for at least 1 hour until it increases in size by about 50% and feels puffy.
Baking The Brioche Buns
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Bake the buns for 15-20 minutes until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Preparing The Glaze
- Mix the liquid sweetener with 1 tablespoon of water.
- Brush this glaze over the hot buns when they leave the oven.
Serving And Storage
- Enjoy the buns while they’re fresh for the best taste. They can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for 3-5 days or frozen for up to 1 month. Warm them up before serving to revive their freshness.
Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings
Variations
- Whole Wheat Vegan Brioche: Substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist. Note that whole wheat flour may result in denser buns.
- Gluten-Free Vegan Brioche: To accommodate gluten-sensitive bakers, use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for bread baking. Adjustments to liquid ratios and adding xanthan gum might be necessary for structure and texture.
Add-Ons
- Herbs and Spices: Incorporate dried or fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder into the dough for a savory flavor profile.
- Citrus Zest: Adding lemon, orange, or lime zest to the dough can provide a delightful aromatic quality and a hint of brightness.
- Seeds and Nuts: Fold in sesame, sunflower, poppy seeds, or chopped nuts for added texture and nutritional value.
Toppings
- Vegan Egg Wash Alternative: Before baking, brush the buns with a mixture of plant-based milk and maple syrup or agave nectar to achieve a glossy finish.
- Sesame or Poppy Seeds: Sprinkle these on top of the buns before baking for a classic look and added crunch.
- Coarse Sugar: For a sweet twist, sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking to create a crunchy, sweet crust.
- Oats or Bran: For a rustic and healthy touch, oats or bran flakes can be sprinkled on top of the buns before baking.
Vegetable Substitutions
- Mushrooms for Meat: Especially portobello or shiitake, for their meaty texture and umami flavor.
- Jackfruit for Pulled Pork: Young green jackfruit, when cooked, has a remarkable ability to mimic the texture of pulled pork.
- Cauliflower for Chicken: Battered and baked, it becomes a convincing stand-in for chicken wings.
- Eggplant for Fish: When sliced and seasoned, eggplant can resemble the texture and flavor of fish, perfect for vegan “fish” dishes.
- Zucchini for Noodles: Spiralized zucchini makes a low-carb, nutrient-dense alternative to pasta.
- Butternut Squash for Cheese: Pureed, it offers a creamy texture and sweet, nutty flavor ideal for cheese sauces.
- Lentils for Ground Beef: Cooked lentils offer a hearty, protein-rich base for tacos, Bolognese, and more.
Quick Tip– Add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to your batter for fluffier vegan baked goods. It reacts with baking soda, creating a lighter texture.
Best Side Dishes
- Sweet Potato Fries A sweet and savory side that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
- Coleslaw A crunchy, creamy slaw made with vegan mayo adds a refreshing contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables Seasonal vegetables, roasted to perfection, offer a healthy and flavorful option.
- Vegan Potato Salad A classic side, made with vegan mayo, mustard, and fresh herbs.
- Quinoa Salad A protein-packed salad with vegetables and a lemony dressing that boosts nutrition.
- Avocado and Tomato Salad This is a simple, fresh salad with ripe avocados and tomatoes dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Pickled Vegetables Adds a tangy, crunchy element to brighten the meal.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob Smoky and sweet, brushed with vegan butter and sprinkled with herbs.
- Chips and Vegan Dip Homemade or store-bought chips served with dips like guacamole, salsa, or vegan queso.
How To Serve?
- Burger Style: Use the bun for a vegan patty topped with lettuce, tomato, vegan cheese, and your favorite sauce.
- Breakfast Sandwich: Fill the bun with scrambled tofu, vegan bacon, and avocado for a hearty start to the day.
- Classic Sandwich: Layer with vegan deli slices, cheese, mustard, and fresh veggies like cucumber and sprouts.
- Sweet Treat: Serve the bun lightly toasted with vegan butter and jam or a drizzle of agave syrup.
- Garlic Bread: Mix vegan butter with crushed garlic and herbs, spread on the bun, and broil until golden.
- Slider Size: Make mini brioche buns for small, bite-sized sandwiches perfect for parties and gatherings.
- Soup Companion: Serve alongside a vegan soup or chili bowl, perfect for dipping.
- Bruschetta: For a fresh appetizer, top the bun with chopped tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil.
- Dessert Buns: Sweeten the buns with cinnamon sugar, bake, and serve with a vegan cream or ice cream.
Quick Tip– For a crispy crust on your vegan brioche buns, lightly brush them with plant-based milk and agave syrup before baking.
Storage & Make Ahead
- Cool Completely: Ensure buns are completely cool before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
- Airtight Container: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate for Longevity: For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: If frozen, thaw it and then warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to refresh it.
- Make Ahead: Prepare dough ahead of time and refrigerate overnight, allowing for easier planning and fresh buns anytime.
Fact– The brioche, a staple of French cuisine, dates back to the 1400s. Its vegan counterpart maintains the tradition’s elegance while embracing modern dietary preferences and sustainability.
Time-Saving Tips
- Pre-Measure Ingredients: Having all your ingredients measured and ready to go can significantly streamline the baking process.
- Use a Stand Mixer: A stand mixer with a dough hook attachment can save manual kneading time and ensure a consistent dough texture.
- Bulk Proofing: If making multiple batches, proof all the dough in a large, lightly oiled container to save space and time.
- Oven Rising: For a quicker rise, place the dough in a slightly warm oven (turned off after preheating for a few minutes) with a bowl of water to create a warm, moist environment.
- Freeze Extra Dough: If making a larger batch, freeze individual bun portions of dough for future use. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and allow to come to room temperature before baking.
- Preheat the oven early: Start preheating your oven just before the final rise so it’s ready to go when your buns are ready.
- Use a Dough Scraper: A dough scraper can help efficiently divide and shape the dough into buns without sticking.
- Bake in Batches: If your oven is large enough, bake multiple trays simultaneously, but remember to rotate them halfway through for even baking.
Vegan Brioche Bun Recipe Made With Rich And Flavorful Ingredients
This Vegan Brioche Bun Recipe offers a plant-based take on the classic French pastry, delivering the same rich, tender texture without using eggs or dairy. Made with ingredients like almond milk, vegan butter, and flaxseed, these buns are perfect for anyone looking to indulge in a luxurious, guilt-free baked good. They are ideal for sandwiches, burgers, or enjoying solo.
8
Buns20
minutes20
minutes300
kcal120
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
3 Cups 3 All-Purpose Plain Flour
¾ Cup ¾ Dairy-Free Milk, Warm
½ Cup ½ Melted Vegan Butter, Or Olive Oil
2 tablespoons 2 Granulated Sugar Or Coconut Sugar
1 tablespoon 1 Instant Dry Yeast
½ Teaspoon ½ Salt (If Using Unsalted Butter)
1 tablespoon 1 Any Light-Coloured Sweetener (Rice Malt Syrup Or Maple Syrup) Or Aquafaba
Step-By-Step Directions
- Prepare The Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups (375g) all-purpose plain flour, 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar (or coconut sugar), 1 tablespoon instant dry yeast, and ½ teaspoon salt (if using unsalted butter). Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly. - Add Wet Ingredients
Warm ¾ cups (190g) of dairy-free milk to lukewarm. Do not heat it too hot to preserve the yeast’s activity.
Add the warm dairy-free milk and ½ cup (115g) melted vegan butter (or substitute with olive oil) to the dry mixture. If you want a sweet dough, add 1 tablespoon of a light-coloured sweetener like rice malt syrup or maple syrup (or aquafaba for a glossy finish).
- Knead The Dough
Mix the ingredients until a rough dough forms. Then, knead the dough for at least 5 minutes by hand on a lightly floured surface until it becomes soft and elastic. If using a stand mixer with a dough hook, knead until the dough is smooth and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
- First Rise
Place the kneaded dough back into the bowl. Cover it with a damp tea towel to prevent drying. Leave the bowl in a warm, draft-free area for the dough to double in size for about 1 hour. You can let it rise in the fridge overnight for a slow fermentation, but ensure it returns to room temperature before proceeding. - Shape The Buns
Once the dough has doubled, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into 8 equal parts (about 90g each). Shape each portion into a smooth ball and arrange them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, ensuring about 2 inches of space between each bun. - Second Rise
Cover the shaped buns with a damp tea towel and leave them in a warm area to rise for about 1 hour, or until they have increased by about 50% and appear puffy. - Preheat The Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) towards the end of the second rise. - Bake The Buns
Once preheated, place the tray in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Prepare And Apply The Glaze
While the buns are baking, prepare the glaze by mixing 1 tablespoon of light-coloured sweetener with 1 tablespoon of water. Brush this glaze over the hot buns immediately after they come out of the oven for a shiny finish. - Cooling
Allow the buns to cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. - Serve Or Store
Enjoy these vegan brioche buns fresh, or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 1 month.
- Equipment List
- Mixing Bowl
- Stand Mixer (optional)
- Dough Hook (if using stand mixer)
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Baking Tray
- Parchment Paper
- Damp Tea Towel
- Oven
- Pastry Brush
- Wire Rack
Notes
- Yeast Activation: Ensure the dairy-free milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it.
- Dough Consistency: If the dough feels too sticky, add flour a tablespoon at a time. If it is too dry, add a bit more milk.
- Slow Rise Option: Let the dough rise overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavors.
- Gluten Development: Kneading is key to developing the dough’s gluten, giving the buns a soft texture.
- Storage: Buns are best in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
- Freezing: Freeze individually for quick thawing and enjoy fresh-baked quality anytime.
- Serving Suggestion: These buns are versatile; serve them with sweet or savory fillings.
- Customization: Experiment with different sweeteners or oils to adjust the flavor to your preference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Vegan Brioche Buns Without A Stand Mixer?
Yes, you can make vegan brioche buns without a stand mixer. Although a stand mixer simplifies the kneading process, you can knead the dough by hand.
It might take a bit longer, usually about 10 to 15 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. Ensure your surface is well-floured to prevent sticking and be prepared for a good arm workout!
How Can I Ensure My Brioche Buns Are Fluffy And Not Dense?
Pay attention to a few key factors to ensure fluffy brioche buns: First, ensure your yeast is fresh and properly activated; the milk should be warm but not hot.
Second, knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, which develops the gluten structure necessary for a light texture. Lastly, don’t rush the rising times; allow the dough to double in size fully during the first rise and become puffy during the second rise.
What Are The Best Vegan Butter For Baking?
The best vegan butter for baking is those high in fat and low in water content, similar to traditional dairy butter. Look for brands that specifically market themselves as good for baking or have a high percentage of oils.
Some popular choices include Miyoko’s Creamery, Earth Balance, and Flora Plant Butter. Experiment with a few brands to find which one gives you the best flavor and texture in your buns.
Can These Brioche Buns Be Made Gluten-Free?
Yes, but with adjustments. To make gluten-free vegan brioche buns, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for bread.
You might also need to add xanthan gum if it’s not included in your flour blend, which helps to mimic the gluten’s binding and elastic properties. Gluten-free doughs can be trickier and may not rise as much as their gluten-containing counterparts, so adjust your expectations accordingly.
How Do I Store Vegan Brioche Buns, And How Long Do They Last?
Vegan brioche buns are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored effectively. After cooling completely, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag, freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the microwave before serving. Reheating them in an oven or toaster can help to revive their texture.
