Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls

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Introduction

Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls are a perfect balance of savory and sweet, offering an irresistibly soft texture with a rich, buttery flavor. These rolls are light and airy with a subtle sweetness from the honey, while the sage provides a fragrant, earthy depth that makes each bite feel like a celebration of flavors. The touch of salt brings everything together, adding just the right amount of contrast to the honey’s sweetness. Every roll is a perfect bite of comfort, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a satisfying combination of flavors that pair beautifully with any meal.

I remember making these rolls for the first time when I wanted to create something special to accompany a holiday dinner. The combination of honey and sage was inspired by the season, and the moment they came out of the oven, I knew I had struck gold. The smell of warm butter and fresh sage fills the air, creating a cozy atmosphere that immediately draws everyone in. The salted honey butter brushed over the rolls just before serving gives them a glossy, inviting finish, making them even more irresistible.

Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls are the kind of dish that instantly elevates a meal. They’re perfect for gatherings or just a cozy family dinner. Serve them warm, and they’ll disappear faster than you can imagine. Whether paired with savory dishes like roast chicken or enjoyed on their own, these rolls are a guaranteed hit. If you want to add a touch of elegance and comfort to your next meal, these rolls are the perfect choice!

Perfect for:

• Holiday meals
• Special gatherings or celebrations
• Weeknight dinners
• Bread lovers
• Pairing with savory and sweet dishes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls will become your go-to bread recipe:

• Perfectly Soft and Buttery: The brioche dough creates a light, airy texture that melts in your mouth with every bite.
• Savory Meets Sweet: The combination of sage and honey gives these rolls a unique flavor profile that’s both savory and sweet.
• Easy to Make: Although they might seem indulgent, these rolls are surprisingly simple to prepare, even for beginners.
• Versatile: They can complement a variety of dishes, from savory roasts to light salads.
• Make-Ahead Option: These rolls can be prepared in advance, allowing you to enjoy fresh bread without the hassle during your meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 3 hours (includes rising time)
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Servings: 12 rolls
• Calories per serving: Approximately 200-220 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 4g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 9g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls:

• 1 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
• ¼ cup honey
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage (or 1 teaspoon dried sage)
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for greasing the bowl)
• 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)

Ingredient Highlights

• Brioche Dough: The rich butter and egg content creates an incredibly soft, slightly sweet dough that’s perfect for rolls.
• Fresh Sage: Adds an earthy, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of honey.
• Honey: Provides a natural sweetness to balance the richness of the butter and the herbaceous sage.
• Coarse Sea Salt: A light sprinkling of sea salt on top of the rolls creates a delightful contrast with the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.

Step-by-Step

Instructions

Follow these steps to make Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls:

Prepare the Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, honey, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes foamy.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and chopped sage.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the yeast mixture, eggs, and softened butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
5. First Rise: Lightly grease a large bowl with vegetable oil and place the dough inside. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Shape and Bake the Rolls:

6. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Shape the Rolls: Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each into a ball. Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. Second Rise: Cover the baking dish with a towel and let the rolls rise for another 30-40 minutes, until puffy and nearly doubled in size.
9. Bake the Rolls: Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

Prepare the Honey Butter Glaze:

10. Make the Honey Butter: While the rolls are baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in honey and a pinch of salt until combined and smooth.
11. Brush the Rolls: As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush the tops with the honey butter glaze and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.

How to Serve

These Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls are best served warm. Here are a few ways to enjoy them:

• As a Side Dish: Serve alongside roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or soups.
• For Breakfast: Enjoy them as a sweet breakfast roll with coffee or tea.
• With Dips: Serve with savory dips or spreads like butter, jam, or cheese.
• As a Snack: Perfect for a light snack, especially when served with a dollop of butter or honey.
• As a Gift: These rolls make a wonderful homemade gift during the holidays or for special occasions.

Additional Tips

To ensure your Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls turn out perfectly:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature to create a smoother dough.
• Don’t Overproof: Be sure not to let the dough rise too much, as it could cause the rolls to collapse during baking.
• Check Oven Temperature: Oven temperatures can vary, so be sure to check the rolls after 20 minutes to avoid over-baking.
• Freeze Leftovers: If you have any rolls left, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
• Double the Batch: If you’re expecting a crowd, it’s easy to double the recipe and bake two batches in two separate pans.

Recipe Variations

Here are some creative ways to customize your Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls:

1. Garlic and Herb Brioche Rolls: Add minced garlic and additional herbs like rosemary or thyme for a more savory flavor.
2. Cheddar-Sage Rolls: Mix in some shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy, savory twist on the classic.
3. Cinnamon-Sugar Brioche Rolls: Skip the sage and honey glaze and sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top for a sweet version.
4. Whole Wheat Brioche Rolls: Use half whole wheat flour to add a bit more depth and fiber to the rolls.
5. Lemon Sage Rolls: Add a little lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy touch that complements the sage beautifully.
6. Spicy Honey Butter: Infuse your honey butter with a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a sweet and spicy kick.
7. Bacon and Sage Rolls: Add crispy bacon bits to the dough for a savory, meaty twist.
8. Vegan Brioche Rolls: Substitute dairy-free butter and a flax egg to make these rolls vegan-friendly.
9. Rosemary Brioche Rolls: Replace sage with fresh rosemary for a fragrant, herb-forward version.
10. Poppy Seed Brioche Rolls: Top the rolls with poppy seeds for extra texture and visual appeal.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: These rolls freeze beautifully. Allow them to cool completely before wrapping in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. To reheat, wrap in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
• Storage: Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in the microwave or oven.

Special Equipment

Here’s some equipment that will make preparing these rolls easier:

1. Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for combining and kneading the dough.
2. 9×13-inch Baking Dish: Perfect for arranging and baking the rolls.
3. Pastry Brush: For brushing the honey butter glaze on the rolls.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
5. Stand Mixer (Optional): For hands-free mixing and kneading if you prefer to use a stand mixer instead of kneading by hand.
6. Kitchen Towel: To cover the rolls while they rise.
7. Saucepan: For melting and mixing the honey butter glaze.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make these rolls without fresh sage?
   Yes, you can substitute dried sage if fresh isn’t available, or omit it altogether for a more neutral flavor.
2. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
   Yes, you can use instant yeast. You won’t need to proof it in warm milk; just add it directly to the dry ingredients.
3. How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
   The rolls should be golden brown on top. You can also tap the bottom of a roll—if it sounds hollow, it’s done.
4. Can I use a bread machine for this recipe?
   Yes, you can use a bread machine to knead the dough, but you will still need to shape and bake the rolls manually.
5. What can I substitute for honey in the glaze?
   Maple syrup or agave nectar are good substitutes for honey in the glaze.
6. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before, let it rise in the fridge overnight, and bake it the next day.
7. Are these rolls vegan?
   No, but you can make them vegan by substituting plant-based butter and using a flax egg or another egg substitute.
8. Can I double the recipe?
   Absolutely! Just use two 9×13-inch baking pans to accommodate the larger batch.
9. Can I freeze the dough before baking?
   Yes, you can freeze the shaped dough after the second rise. Just let them thaw and rise for an hour before baking.
10. How do I store leftover rolls?
    Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh longer, you can freeze them.

Conclusion

Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls are the epitome of comfort and indulgence, making them a perfect addition to any meal or as a stand-alone treat. The rich, buttery brioche paired with the warm, earthy notes of sage and the subtle sweetness of honey creates a harmonious flavor profile that will delight your taste buds with every bite.

What sets this recipe apart is the careful balance of flavors: the saltiness complements the sweetness of the honey, while the sage adds an unexpected depth. These rolls are incredibly versatile—whether served alongside a hearty dinner, as a snack, or even for breakfast with a smear of cream cheese, they’ll always be a hit.

Ideal for special occasions or a comforting everyday treat, Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls are sure to become a crowd favorite in no time. I can’t wait for you to enjoy the delightful blend of sweet and savory in each soft, melt-in-your-mouth bite. Don’t forget to share your baking creations with me—I love seeing how you put your unique spin on it! Enjoy every delicious roll!