Brioches

Prep: 15 min Cook: 35 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A warm, sweet treat combining the richness of molasses and apples with crunchy walnuts, perfect for cozy mornings or afternoon tea gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 2 c. flour
  • 4 tsp. baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 2 Tbsp. sugar
  • 1/2 c. walnuts
  • 4 Tbsp. shortening
  • 2/3 c. milk
  • 1 c. molasses
  • 1/4 c. water
  • 2 to 3 apples

Instructions

  1. Pour molasses and water into the bottom of the pan.
  2. Mix flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar, then add shortening and milk to form a dough.
  3. Roll the dough into one large piece and spread small apple pieces and walnuts over it.
  4. Roll the dough into a log shape and slice into approximately 1-inch thick pieces.
  5. Drop the slices into the molasses and water mixture in the pan.
  6. Cook for 35 minutes at 250°F.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter brioche, consider using half all-purpose flour and half cake flour. If you don't have walnuts, pecans or almonds can be a delicious substitute. To enhance the flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. Ensure that the molasses is of good quality for the best depth of flavor, similar to what you’d find in American recipes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delightful brioches warm, topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a perfect breakfast or snack. For a decadent twist, try them alongside a slice of Doris'S Strawberry Cake for a sweet meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover brioches in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, wrap the slices in foil and warm them in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through, preserving their moisture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Brioches contains roughly 220 calories, with 4g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is a good source of calcium (15% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1138mg per serving (49% of the Daily Value).

220 kcal 11% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.4g 9% DV
Total Fat 14.3g 18% DV
Carbs 21.3g 8% DV
Fiber 1.8g 6% DV
Sugar 9.7g 19% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1138.1mg 49% DV
Potassium 207.3mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 0.5mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 14.3mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 13.9mg 15% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg 1% DV
Calcium 196.4mg 15% DV
Iron 1.9mg 10% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten Tree nuts

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of sweetener instead of molasses?

Yes, you can substitute molasses with honey or maple syrup, but keep in mind that it will alter the flavor slightly. Using brown sugar mixed with water can also mimic the consistency of molasses while maintaining some of that rich sweetness.

What is the best way to chop the apples for this recipe?

For even distribution in the dough, chop the apples into small, bite-sized pieces, about 1/4 inch thick. This size will ensure they cook evenly within the brioche and provide a nice texture without overwhelming each bite.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make a vegan version of these brioches, replace the shortening with a plant-based butter and use a non-dairy milk, like almond or oat milk. Additionally, you can omit the eggs (if included) or replace them with flaxseed meal mixed with water to achieve similar binding properties.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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